3M Industrial Cleaner and Degreaser, Citrus Base - Fast Residue

Our review of the 3M Industrial Cleaner and Degreaser, citrus base, finds it best suited for maintenance crews and workshops that need a fast, non-corrosive solvent to remove sticky residue, tar, oil and ink from metal equipment. The bottom line: it cleans heavy soils quickly without soaking parts or leaving a film, so technicians can return machinery to service sooner. The fresh citrus scent is a useful byproduct in enclosed service bays, while the spray-and-wipe application keeps jobs tidy and controlled.

Key Features

• Effective cleaning performance: Dissolves and removes grease, silicone, tar, wax, marker and ink so metal parts and tools are ready for inspection or further work.
• Industrial strength: Lifts debris and heavy oils quickly without long soak times, which speeds maintenance and reduces downtime.
• Spray-and-wipe application: The aerosol spray covers parts evenly so technicians can wipe contaminants away in minutes for a clean finish.
• Non-corrosive to metal: Safe for maintenance use on metal equipment where compatibility with parts is important.
• Sticky residue removal: Clears adhesive residue from tapes, labels and stickers without leaving a visible film.
• Citrus scent: Cleans without streaking and leaves a mild fresh smell that users report as pleasant in work areas.

Who It's For

This cleaner is aimed at industrial maintenance teams, janitorial staff in manufacturing, and print shop technicians who need a reliable degreaser for metal machinery, hoses, spray guns and press parts. It works well where a fast-acting solvent is required but chlorinated or harsher solvents are undesirable.

It is not intended as a general household cleaner or a hand cleaner, and users handling the product should avoid skin contact and not rinse into waterways or sewers. Consumer buyers seeking multi-surface home cleaners or personal hand cleaning should look elsewhere.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Removes tar, oil, ink and stubborn adhesive residue quickly, reducing cleaning time.
• Non-corrosive formulation makes it suitable for metal parts and maintenance tasks.
• Spray application allows targeted use without soaking components or leaving residue.
• Many users appreciate the citrus scent compared with stronger solvent odors.

Cons

• Priced for industrial use and may feel expensive for occasional or home users.
• Not formulated for skin contact and requires proper PPE and disposal precautions.

Specifications

Brand	3M
Net weight	18.5 oz
Base	Citrus
Intended use	Metal equipment degreasing and maintenance cleaning
Key removals	Sticky residue, grease, tar, oil, ink, wax, marker
Corrosive risk	Non-corrosive to metal parts
Restrictions	For industrial/occupational use only; not for hand cleaning

Our Verdict

The 3M Industrial Cleaner and Degreaser is a practical choice for shops and maintenance crews that need fast, reliable removal of adhesives, grease and inks from metal parts without corrosive effects. While its industrial price and handling precautions mean it is not ideal for casual household use, it delivers good value to professionals who need a capable, spray-and-wipe degreaser that reduces downtime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this be used on painted surfaces?
It is formulated for metal equipment; test a small area first because solvents can affect some paints and coatings.

Is this safe for use on motors and tools?
Yes, it is non-corrosive to metal and suitable for degreasing motors and tools, but avoid electrical contact and follow safety precautions.

Does it contain chlorofluorocarbons or methylene chloride?
No, it does not contain CFCs, methylene chloride or 1,1,1-trichloroethane according to the product information.