POR-15 Cleaner Degreaser, Non-flammable and Water Based, Removes Grease, Oil and Surface

POR-15 Cleaner Degreaser is a water-based, non-flammable cleaning solution engineered to remove heavy grease, oil, wax, and surface contaminants. It is designed for DIYers and professionals who need to clean automotive parts, machinery, or fabrics, as well as anyone preparing bare or rusted metal surfaces for a fresh coat of paint.

The concentrated formula mixes with hot water at ratios between 4:1 and 10:1 depending on the task. Because it is water-based rather than solvent-based, it cuts through grime, soap films, dirt, and oxidation without leaving behind petroleum residue. It is also versatile enough to use across multiple materials beyond metal, including vinyl, canvas, nylon, grease traps, and holding tanks.

When working on metal projects, the cleaner plays an essential role by stripping away residues that compromise paint bonding. Because it rinses away without leaving a film, it helps promote solid paint adhesion on engines, tools, tires, rims, and undercarriages.

Working with this cleaner does require specific application steps. It needs to be mixed with hot water rather than cold, and every cleaned area must be rinsed thoroughly with water afterward. Additionally, the listing specifies that metal surfaces must be treated with POR-15 Metal Prep after cleaning if you plan to paint them.

Verdict: POR-15 Cleaner Degreaser is a practical, heavy-duty solution for anyone needing to strip oil, wax, and grime from workshop parts, fabrics, or vehicle undercarriages. It is especially suited for those prepping bare or rusted metal as part of a multi-step painting process.

A great fit if you:

• Need to clean grease and oil from engines, machinery, rims, or undercarriages
• Want a non-flammable, water-based alternative to petroleum solvents
• Are prepping bare or rusted metal for paint and require a zero-residue surface
• Need to clean non-metal items like canvas, vinyl, nylon, or holding tanks

Consider something else if you:

• Do not have access to hot water for proper dilution and application
• Want a one-step metal prep solution that does not require subsequent rinsing and metal treatment

How do I mix and dilute this cleaner?
Dilute the cleaner with hot water. A ratio of four parts water to one part cleaner works for most jobs, but it can be diluted up to ten parts water to one part cleaner.

What surfaces can I use this degreaser on?
You can use it on bare and rusted metal, engines, auto parts, machinery, tools, tires, rims, undercarriages, canvas, vinyl, nylon, grease traps, and holding tanks.

Do I need to do anything after applying the cleaner to metal before painting?
Yes. You must rinse the area thoroughly with water after cleaning, and metal surfaces should always be treated with POR-15 Metal Prep before painting.