I wasn’t going to write a Zinsser Universal Degreaser & Cleaner review, simply because it’s essentially a cleaning agent, and I don’t want to bore everyone.
However, I mention the product in so many blogs now that I really need to address it. Plus, it’s something I use on a weekly basis as a Professional Decorator. I’ll try and keep it short and sweet.
Zinsser Universal Degreaser & Cleaner is a water-based cleaning agent that is available online by clicking here. You can use it on most surfaces, and it’s ‘colour fast’ on fabric, which means it doesn’t bleach the colour (not that I’ve ever used it on fabric).
You can use it for removing dried water-based paint, paint overspray, tape residue, glue and adhesive, wax, food and drink stains, bird droppings, smoke damage, tree sap, grease and oil, marker and crayon, pet stains, brake dust, fireplace soot, oxidation, lipstick, scuff marks, and just about anything else.
My Zinsser Universal Degreaser & Cleaner Review
I once named this product “the best kitchen degreaser”, which I stand by. As a Decorator I’ve been using Zinsser Universal Degreaser & Cleaner for over a year. Before trying it, I used sugar soap to remove grease and dirt prior to painting.
The reason I switched is because Zinsser Universal Degreaser & Cleaner is a hell of a lot better. It is strong; so much so, it cuts through grease and dirt faster than anything else you’re likely to have tried.
The only downside is, because it’s so strong, it really gets on the back of your throat. I recommend wearing a mask if applying Zinsser Degreaser in an enclosed space and open a window. We’re talking about a cleaning product that can remove paint, so don’t take any chances.
For this reason, you probably wouldn’t use it in your kitchen every day. It’s more for a really deep clean! I could see landlords using this in rental properties when tenants move out. I use it prior to painting kitchen cabinets or furniture.
Anyway, I told you I’d keep the review short and sweet, so I’ll end it there. Click here to see online prices, and there’s a quick video below.
Review Summary
Zinsser Universal Degreaser & Cleaner Review - Decorator's forum UK
A water-based cleaning agent that can be used on different surfaces.
Product Brand: Zinsser
4.8
Pros
- Doesn’t bleach fabric.
- Very powerful.
- Easy to use.
- A bottle seems to last for ages.
- Removes all sorts of dirt, including grease, oil, and even water-based paint.
Cons
- Too strong, so open a window and wear a mask or you’ll get a sore throat.
FAQs
How to use Zinsser Degreaser?
Ensure the room is well ventilated and wear the appropriate PPE. Spray the Zinsser Universal Degreaser & Cleaner on the surface you wish to clean, wait 30 seconds, then wipe with a damp cloth.
Can you paint after using degreaser?
Yes, use the degreaser to clean the area, then you’re free to abrade the surface and paint.
How long does degreaser take to work?
A good degreaser like Zinsser Universal Degreaser & Cleaner starts working instantly! You see the grease running down the surface as soon as it encounters the agent.
Do you have to wash degreaser off?
It’s a cleaning agent, so you wouldn’t want to leave it on a surface, especially if it’s in a room where you prepare food. Spray it on, then wipe it off with a damp cloth.
What is the difference between cleaner and degreaser?
Degreaser is a cleaner that also works on grease. All degreasers are cleaners, but not all cleaners are degreasers. Just buy whatever best suits the task in hand.
What is the strongest degreaser you can buy?
The strongest degreaser I’ve used is Zinsser Universal Degreaser & Cleaner. That’s why it’s important to open windows and wear a mask when using it.
A superb product but very expensive. Elbow Grease degreaser works just as well for less than a £1 a bottle.