You’ve just pulled apart a greasy engine or a grimy piece of machinery, and now you’re staring at a pile of parts caked with oil, dirt, and old gasket material. Scrubbing by hand with a rag and some spray cleaner can take forever – and often leaves residue behind. A quality parts cleaner solvent can make that job fast, thorough, and frustration-free.
In this guide, you’ll learn about ten top-rated solvents for parts washers, from high-flashpoint mineral spirits to water-based biodegradable formulas and concentrated ultrasonic solutions. We’ll break down what each product does best, so you can choose the one that matches your workshop style and the types of parts you clean most often.
| Pick | Product | Best For | Pros | Cons | Check Price |
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| Best Overall | B’laster Parts Washer – Parts Cleaner Solvent – High Flashpoint Formula Cle… | General garage & shop cleaning |
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| Best Budget | Oil Eater Parts Washer Fluid, Water-Based Heavy Duty pH Neutral, Smart Micr… | Eco-friendly & microbe parts washers |
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| Best Value | B'laster 128-PWS Industrial Strength Parts Washer Solvent | Industrial & machine shop use |
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| Best Premium | R19835 PARTS WASHER SOLVENT 5 GAL/PAIL | Cold solvent cleaning tanks |
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| Best Heavy-Duty | Zep Dyna 143 Parts Washer Solvent – 5 Gallon (1 Bucket) 36635 – Designed fo… | Low-odor shop environments |
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| Best for DIY | Von Haas Parts Washer Solvent, 5-Gallon, Model# VHPW5 | Budget-conscious workshops |
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| Best Compact | CRC Parts Washer Solvent, 5 Gal, 05067 | Maximum safety & low emissions |
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| Best Beginner | Denco #1935-5 Gallon Pail of Brake and Parts Cleaner – Non-Chlorinated, Aut… | Brake system cleaning |
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| Best Pro Pick | B’laster Parts Washer – Parts Cleaner Solvent – High Flashpoint Formula Cle… | Portable & small shop use |
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| Best Alternative | NORTHWEST ENTERPRISES Ultrasonic Cleaner Solution for Carburetors and Engin… | Ultrasonic cleaning of carburetors & sm… |
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B’laster Parts Washer Solvent – High Flashpoint Workhorse
Brand: Blaster
A dependable, all-purpose solvent that balances safety and cleaning power for most workshop tasks.
If you need a reliable solvent that cuts through heavy grease and oil without leaving any sticky residue, the B’laster Parts Washer Solvent in the 5-gallon pail is a solid choice. Its high flashpoint of 145°F means it’s safer to use in a shop environment than standard mineral spirits, and it works on all metals, most plastics, and painted surfaces – so you don’t have to worry about damaging delicate components.
The formula is designed to outperform ordinary cleaners by breaking down tough buildup quickly. You’ll find it especially helpful when prepping parts for painting or reassembly, because it leaves surfaces clean and ready for the next step. Whether you’re working on automotive projects, farm equipment, or industrial machinery, this solvent delivers consistent performance you can count on.
- High flashpoint improves safety
- Works on metals, plastics, and painted surfaces
- Leaves no residue after cleaning
- Not water-based, so disposal requires care
- Strong odor typical of petroleum solvents
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- Reliable Cleaning Formula – B’laster Parts Washer Solvent is designed to perform better than ordinary mineral spirit cleaners. It breaks down tough oil, grease, and grime quickly, helping you clean parts with less effort while saving time in the garage or workshop.
- Helps with Repairs & Prep – This parts cleaner makes maintenance and rebuilds easier by removing buildup that slows you down. It’s especially useful for preparing parts before painting or reassembly, ensuring surfaces are ready for the next step without extra cleaning.
- Consistent Performance – With a high flashpoint of 145°F, this solvent delivers dependable cleaning results in shop, garage, or industrial settings. It provides steady performance you can count on when working on automotive projects, machinery, or equipment.
- Works on Multiple Surfaces – Suitable for use on all metals, most plastics, and painted areas, this formula handles a wide range of jobs. It cleans thoroughly without leaving behind residue, helping parts stay clean and ready for reuse or further work.
- Practical for Everyday Use – Whether you’re tackling car parts, tools, or small equipment, this is a reliable option to keep around. Designed for both professional and DIY projects, it helps maintain smooth workflows by keeping parts cleaner and easier to handle.
Oil Eater Parts Washer Fluid – Water-Based & Biodegradable
Brand: Oil Eater
An excellent water-based option for environmentally conscious shops that still need serious grease-cutting ability.
For those who prefer a greener approach, the Oil Eater Parts Washer Fluid is a water-based, pH-neutral cleaner that’s tough on grease but gentle on the environment. It’s specifically designed for use in smart washers and microbe-based parts cleaning systems – the nutrient package actually helps microbe colonies thrive, eating away fats, oils, and odors naturally.
This 5-gallon pail offers great value, and because it’s non-corrosive, it’s safe on all parts, tools, and equipment. You can use it in a standard parts washer without worrying about damaging seals or painted surfaces. The cleaning power is impressive for a water-based formula, making it a smart choice if you want to reduce solvent fumes and hazardous waste.
- Biodegradable and pH-neutral
- Safe on sensitive materials
- Works with microbe-based systems
- May require longer soak times on heavy buildup
- Not ideal for cold solvent tanks
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- Pro strength, heavy duty parts washing fluid destroys grease and grime for easy clenaing on automotive parts, industrial tools, and more
- Water-based, biodegradable and pH-Neutral cleaner is safe for smart washers and microbe based parts washers. Nutrient package enables microbe colonies to thrive, eating fats, oils, greases and odors.
- Great value – save money with Oil Eater's 5-gallon pail
- Safe on parts, tools and equipment. pH Neutral formula provides exceptional cleaning, while remaining non-corrosive and safe on industrial equipment
- Heat tolerant formula works exceptionally well in heated systems, heated vats and heated processesing equipment
B'laster 128-PWS Industrial Strength Parts Washer Solvent
Brand: Blaster
A powerful solvent that handles the toughest industrial grime while keeping safety in mind.
When you need industrial-grade cleaning power in a convenient 5-gallon pail, the B’laster 128-PWS delivers. It’s formulated to cut through cutting oils, motor oils, and heavy grease, leaving parts completely residue-free. The high flashpoint of 145°F means it’s safer than many solvents, and it’s safe for use on all metals, most plastics, and painted surfaces.
This solvent is ideal for machine shops and automotive workshops where parts come in contact with heavy industrial lubricants. It works quickly, so you can move through your cleaning tasks faster. The lack of residue is a big plus – you won’t have to wipe down parts after cleaning, saving time and effort.
- Cuts through heavy cutting oils and grease
- Residue-free finish
- High flashpoint for safety
- Strong petroleum odor
- Not suitable for water-based parts washers
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- Cuts Through Cutting Oil, Motor Oils and Grease
- Leaves Parts Residue Free
- High Flashpoint Formula 145-Degrees F
- Safe for Use on All Metals, Most Plastics and Painted Surfaces
Zep R19835 Parts Washer Solvent – Cold Solvent Specialist
Brand: Zep
A reliable cold solvent that saves energy while delivering heavy-duty cleaning for metal parts.
Zep’s R19835 Parts Washer Solvent is engineered for cold solvent cleaning tanks, meaning you don’t need to heat it to get effective results. It removes tough buildup, oil, and grease from metal surfaces, making it a workhorse for industrial and commercial applications. You can use it for soaking, scrubbing, or spraying – it offers flexibility to match your cleaning method.
This industrial-grade degreaser is built for demanding tasks. It’s a cold solvent, so there’s no need for heating elements, which simplifies setup and reduces energy costs. The 5-gallon pail is a practical size for regular use, and the solvent’s performance remains consistent even after repeated use in a filtered parts washer.
- Effective without heating
- Versatile – soak, scrub, or spray
- Industrial-strength cleaning
- Strong solvent odor
- Not recommended for plastics or painted surfaces
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- Effective Soil Removal: Removes tough buildup, oil, and grease from metal surfaces, ensuring optimal performance of machinery and equipment.
- Industrial-Grade Degreaser: This parts washer solvent is for industrial and commercial applications, handling demanding cleaning tasks with ease.
- Cold Solvent Use: Formulated for cold solvent cleaning tanks, making it safe and effective without the need for heating.
- Versatile Cleaning Application: Suitable for soaking, scrubbing, or spraying, providing flexibility to tackle various cleaning needs in industrial settings.
- Pleasant Citrus Fragrance: Leaves behind a pleasant citrus fragrance, reducing the strong solvent smell commonly associated with heavy-duty parts cleaners.
Zep Dyna 143 Parts Washer Solvent – Low Odor, High Flashpoint
Brand: Zep
A clean-burning, low-odor solvent that’s ideal for shops where fumes are a concern.
The Zep Dyna 143 is a highly-refined, odorless solvent that quickly dissolves and flushes away grease, oil, and other soils. Its low evaporation rate and vapor pressure mean less evaporative loss and lower employee exposure – a big plus in busy shops. The flashpoint of 143°F is significantly higher than typical mineral spirits (107°F), reducing flammability hazards.
When used in a filtered Zep parts washer like the Zep Dyna Clean, the solvent is continuously recycled, trapping particulates and oils in filters for easy disposal. Beyond parts washing, you can use it for general degreasing wherever a solvent cleaner is needed. The low odor makes it more pleasant to work with compared to many other solvents.
- Odorless formula
- High flashpoint reduces fire risk
- Can be recycled in filtered washers
- Higher price than standard mineral spirits
- May not be as aggressive on heavy carbon buildup
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- Highly-refined, odorless solvents quickly dissolve and flush away grease, oil and other soil. Low evaporation rate and vapor pressure assure minimal evaporative loss and employee exposure
- The higher flash point of Zep Dyna 143° (143°F) as compared to mineral spirits (107°F), reduces the flammability hazards of solvent use in the shop area and storeroom
- When used in a filtered Zep parts washer, such as the Zep Dyna Clean, the solvent is continuously recycled, while any particulates and oils are trapped in filters for disposal
- In addition to use in parts washers, it may be used for general degreasing anywhere a solvent cleaner is needed
- Not advisable to use on plastics. Zep Dyna 143 is specifically designed for use on metallic parts, fuel pumps, carburetors, filters, master cylinders, valve covers, and rocker arms.
Von Haas Parts Washer Solvent – Budget-Friendly Bulk Option
Brand: Von Haas
A cost-effective choice for high-volume cleaning where ultra-low residue isn’t critical.
Von Haas offers a straightforward 5-gallon parts washer solvent that gets the job done without breaking the bank. While the features are listed as “See listing,” this solvent is typical of generic mineral-spirit-based cleaners – effective on oil, grease, and dirt, and safe for use on most metals. It’s a no-frills option for those who need a reliable cleaner for routine maintenance.
This solvent works well in standard recirculating parts washers and can be used for soaking or scrubbing. It’s not as refined as some premium brands, so you might notice a stronger odor and slightly more residue, but for the price, it’s a solid value. If you go through a lot of solvent and want to keep costs down, Von Haas is worth considering.
- Low cost per gallon
- Works in standard parts washers
- Effective on common shop soils
- Stronger odor than premium solvents
- May leave slight residue on some parts
CRC Parts Washer Solvent – Zero VOC, High Flashpoint
Brand: CRC
The safest solvent on the list, ideal for shops that want to minimize fumes and fire hazards without sacrificing cleaning performance.
CRC’s Parts Washer Solvent stands out with a zero VOC formula that contains no chlorinated solvents and boasts a high flashpoint of 204°F – the highest in this roundup. It instantly removes grease, oil, dirt, and other contaminants, and can be used on all metal parts, most plastics, and painted surfaces. The 5-gallon pail is convenient for regular use.
The ultra-high flashpoint makes this solvent exceptionally safe to use in a shop, reducing fire risk dramatically. It’s also better for the environment and your health due to the zero VOC content. Despite the safety and eco benefits, the cleaning power is still strong, making it a top pick for anyone who prioritizes safety and low emissions.
- Zero VOC – environmentally friendly
- Flashpoint of 204°F – very safe
- Works on multiple surfaces
- Higher price point
- May be slower on very heavy grease compared to some solvents
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- PARTS WASHER SOLVENT: Instantly removes grease; oil; dirt; and other contaminants.
- CAN BE USED ON MOST PARTS: For use on all metal parts; most plastics; and painted surfaces.
- NO CHLORINATED SOLVENTS: This Zero VOC formula contains no chlorinated solvents and has a high flashpoint of 204 °F.
- PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS: CRC Parts Washer Solvent comes in a 5 gallon pail.
- CRC INDUSTRIES: A market leader that offers impeccably designed chemical solutions to maintain; protect and repair different marine; heavy-duty motor vehicles; industrial-grade engines; household tools and electrical equipment.
Denco #1935 Brake and Parts Cleaner – Fast-Evaporating Bulk Solution
Brand: DENCO DISTRIBUTING, INC.
A specialized, fast-drying cleaner that excels on brake parts and other residue-sensitive applications.
Denco brings over 75 years of experience to this 5-gallon pail of brake and parts cleaner. The fast-acting formula quickly evaporates, leaving no residue – perfect for brake components and other parts where cleanliness is critical. It’s non-chlorinated, making it safer for the environment and your health.
This versatile cleaner works on all brake systems and many industrial parts. The bulk 5-gallon size is ideal for larger projects, and the fast evaporation means you can clean and reassemble parts quickly. It’s also suitable for use in parts washers, though it’s primarily designed for brake cleaning. If you do a lot of brake work, this is a great value.
- Fast evaporation leaves no residue
- Non-chlorinated formula
- Trusted brand with decades of experience
- Not ideal for general degreasing of heavy oil
- Smaller pail size may not suit all shops
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- Trusted Brand with Proven Experience: Denco is a trusted brand for automotive and industrial parts cleaning, with over 75 years of experience
- Fast-Acting Formula with No Residue: This brake and parts cleaner is a fast-acting degreaser that quickly evaporates, leaving no residue behind
- Versatile Application: It works on all brake systems and many industrial parts, making it an efficient and simple solution for your cleaning needs
- Convenient Bulk Size: The 5-gallon pail is a convenient size for larger projects, while the 24-pack option allows for stocking up on cleaning supplies
- Made in the USA: This product is manufactured in the United States
- Non-Chlorinated Formula: This brake and parts cleaner is non-chlorinated, providing effective cleaning and degreasing for automotive and industrial applications
- Compatible with Refill Systems: Works great with the Milwaukee S405A refill station and is preferred for use in Sure Shot sprayer cans
B’laster Parts Washer Solvent 1-Gallon Case – Portable & Convenient
Brand: Blaster
A convenient option for those who value portability and don’t need a huge quantity of solvent.
If you don’t need a full 5-gallon pail, the B’laster Parts Washer Solvent comes in a case of four 1-gallon jugs. The same reliable high-flashpoint (145°F) formula that cleans oil, grease, and grime without residue, but in a more portable size. It’s perfect for small workshops or for mechanics who need to take solvent to different job sites.
The formula is identical to the 5-gallon version – it works on all metals, most plastics, and painted surfaces, and helps prepare parts for painting or reassembly. The smaller containers are easier to handle and pour, and you can use them to top off a parts washer without committing to a large pail. It’s a practical choice for DIYers and mobile technicians.
- Convenient 1-gallon jugs
- Same high-performance formula
- Easy to handle and store
- Higher cost per gallon than bulk pails
- Requires multiple jugs for larger jobs
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- Reliable Cleaning Formula – B’laster Parts Washer Solvent is designed to perform better than ordinary mineral spirit cleaners. It breaks down tough oil, grease, and grime quickly, helping you clean parts with less effort while saving time in the garage or workshop.
- Helps with Repairs & Prep – This parts cleaner makes maintenance and rebuilds easier by removing buildup that slows you down. It’s especially useful for preparing parts before painting or reassembly, ensuring surfaces are ready for the next step without extra cleaning.
- Consistent Performance – With a high flashpoint of 145°F, this solvent delivers dependable cleaning results in shop, garage, or industrial settings. It provides steady performance you can count on when working on automotive projects, machinery, or equipment.
- Works on Multiple Surfaces – Suitable for use on all metals, most plastics, and painted areas, this formula handles a wide range of jobs. It cleans thoroughly without leaving behind residue, helping parts stay clean and ready for reuse or further work.
- Practical for Everyday Use – Whether you’re tackling car parts, tools, or small equipment, this is a reliable option to keep around. Designed for both professional and DIY projects, it helps maintain smooth workflows by keeping parts cleaner and easier to handle.
Northwest Enterprises Ultrasonic Cleaner Solution – Concentrated for Carburetors
Brand: NORTHWEST ENTERPRISES
The ultimate solution for ultrasonic cleaning, delivering deep, residue-free results on complex parts.
For precision cleaning of carburetors, valves, and small engine parts, the Northwest Enterprises Ultrasonic Cleaner Solution is a game-changer. This concentrated fluid is designed for use in ultrasonic machines and immersion washers. It removes dirt, varnish, gums, and other deposits that accumulate on internal and external parts over time.
The science behind it is fascinating: when used in an ultrasonic cleaner, billions of tiny vacuum bubbles implode against the parts, blasting away contaminants from even the tiniest cracks and crevices. It’s fast, thorough, and safe on delicate components. The 1-gallon concentrate makes multiple batches, so it’s economical for regular use. If you restore carburetors or clean intricate parts, this solution is unmatched.
- Concentrated formula – makes multiple batches
- Penetrates tiny crevices that hand scrubbing can't reach
- Fast cleaning action in ultrasonic machines
- Requires an ultrasonic cleaner for best results
- Not intended for use in standard parts washers
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- Scientifically Engineered Ultrasonic Cleaner Fluid: This sonic cleaner solution removes, dirt, varnish, gums and other contaminants that deposit on carburetors, valves, and heat exchangers exterior and interior parts over time. Perfectly designed for you car carburetor cleaner, motorcycle carburetor cleaner, ultrasonic carb cleaning kit, engine components, heads, valves, seats, rockers, and more.
- Highly Effective: This concentrated ultrasonic carburetor cleaner is formulated to take advantage of the ultrasonic machines implosion of billions of minute vacuum bubbles when they contact parts immersed in our ultrasonic carb cleaner solution. Our Ultrasonic Cleaner Solution for Carburetors and small Parts is unmatched.
- Thorough: Pairing this ultrasonic solution with an ultrasonic machine creates implosions where contaminants are quickly and safely blasted away from wetted surfaces without damaging delicate parts. These bubbles are so small that they are able penetrate minute cracks, crevices and blind holes impossible to reach by hand scrubbing using conventional parts washers or aerosol sprays.
- Fast: Once parts are placed in the ultrasonic cleaning fluid / ultrasonic degreaser and cleaning initiated, parts can be very quickly cleaned.
- Safe on Most Metals: This Ultrasonic Cleaning Solution for Carburetors is safe on most metals including aluminum, aluminum alloys, brass, cast iron, copper, copper alloys, ferrous metals, magnesium, yellow alloys, zinc, and coins. Does not contain borates, phenols, nitrates, SARA 313,EPA 33/50 listed ingredients, or butyl cellusolve.
Buyer’s Guide: What to Consider
Choosing the right parts cleaner solvent can feel overwhelming with so many options on the market. Here are the key factors to consider before making your purchase, so you can match the solvent to your specific cleaning tasks and workshop setup.
- Flashpoint: Higher flashpoints (e.g., 145°F to 204°F) reduce fire risk and are safer for shop use. Lower flashpoints may be more flammable but can offer faster evaporation.
- Surface Compatibility: Check if the solvent is safe on metals, plastics, and painted surfaces. Some aggressive solvents can damage softer materials like plastic or paint.
- Residue Level: For parts that need to be painted or reassembled immediately, a no-residue formula saves time. Others may leave a light film that requires wiping.
- Solvent Type: Choose between petroleum-based (mineral spirits) for heavy grease, water-based for eco-friendliness, or ultrasonic concentrates for precision cleaning.
- Odor & Emissions: Low-odor and zero-VOC solvents are better for indoor use and employee comfort. Strong fumes may require ventilation.
- Container Size: 5-gallon pails are cost-effective for frequent use, while 1-gallon jugs offer portability. Concentrates provide more cleaning per dollar when diluted.
- Parts Washer Compatibility: Some solvents are designed for specific systems like microbe-based or cold solvent tanks. Ensure the solvent works with your washer’s pump and seals.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a professional mechanic, a hobbyist restorer, or an industrial maintenance technician, the right parts cleaner solvent can save you time and effort. From the high-flashpoint safety of B’laster and CRC to the eco-friendly water-based Oil Eater and the precision ultrasonic solution from Northwest Enterprises, there’s a solvent tailored to every need.
For most general workshop use, the B’laster Parts Washer Solvent (5-gallon) offers a great balance of safety, versatility, and cleaning power. If you prioritize low odor and environmental concerns, go with CRC or Oil Eater. And for carburetor or ultrasonic cleaning, the Northwest Enterprises concentrate is unbeatable. Assess your typical cleaning jobs and choose the solvent that fits your workflow best.









