7 Best Plant Based Degreasers For Cleaning Equipment Storage Rooms

A clean tool storage room is the difference between starting a spring planting project on time and wasting an entire morning hunting for a misplaced wrench coated in last season’s engine oil. Equipment maintenance often takes a backseat to daily chores, yet neglecting the buildup of grime on mowers, tillers, and hand tools leads to premature rust and mechanical failure. Investing in plant-based degreasers provides a safe, effective way to maintain equipment without introducing harsh synthetic chemicals into the farm’s soil or groundwater.

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Simple Green: The All-Around Workshop Workhorse

Simple Green is the industry standard for a reason. Its non-toxic, biodegradable formula handles everything from greasy mower decks to sticky sap on pruning shears with impressive consistency.

This degreaser is perfect for the hobby farmer who wants a single, reliable gallon jug that tackles ninety percent of maintenance tasks. It works well in pressure washers or as a simple wipe-down solution for tool handles and storage shelves.

While it requires some dwell time on thick, baked-on grease, its versatility is unmatched. If keeping the workshop simple and efficient is the priority, this is the safest bet for the equipment inventory.

ECOS Orange Plus: Best Fresh-Scent Degreaser

Small storage sheds can quickly become overwhelmed by the heavy smell of gasoline and stagnant oil. ECOS Orange Plus utilizes the natural power of citrus oils to break down grease while leaving a clean, pleasant aroma in its wake.

This product shines when cleaning surfaces where harsh chemical fumes would be unbearable, such as a workbench inside a small, poorly ventilated tool room. It is particularly effective on lighter residues and organic gunk that accumulates on garden spades and shovels.

Choose this degreaser if the workshop doubles as a workspace where comfort and air quality matter. It might not be the primary choice for heavy engine overhauls, but for routine maintenance, it keeps the environment pleasant.

Better Life Cleaner: Top Pick for Lighter Grime

For those who prioritize ingredient transparency and need a solution for frequent, minor cleaning, Better Life is a stellar choice. It is entirely plant-derived, meaning there is zero concern about harsh residues left on equipment that comes into contact with vegetable crops.

This cleaner is best suited for wiping down surfaces, cleaning plastic tool storage bins, or removing light dust and grime buildup after a dry growing season. It performs predictably and safely without requiring heavy-duty rinsing protocols.

Stick to Better Life for the lighter side of farm maintenance. It lacks the aggressive solvent strength for deep engine work, but it excels at maintaining the pristine condition of small garden implements.

Citra Solv Concentrate: Most Powerful Degreaser

When equipment is covered in thick, hardened grease from an entire season of use, milder options will fall short. Citra Solv is a highly concentrated, citrus-based powerhouse that cuts through sludge faster than almost any other plant-based alternative.

This is the “heavy artillery” of the farm workshop. Because it is a concentrate, it can be diluted depending on the severity of the mess, making it both effective and economical for large-scale cleanup jobs.

Only opt for Citra Solv if regular maintenance has been neglected and serious degreasing is required. It requires proper dilution and thorough rinsing, but for those stubborn, crusty deposits, nothing else in the plant-based category compares.

Seventh Generation: Best Readily Available Option

Seventh Generation products are staples for a reason: they are effective, easy to find, and consistent. Their degreasing solutions rely on plant-based surfactants that lift dirt and grease without the aggressive corrosiveness found in industrial cleaners.

This is the go-to solution for the farmer who needs to restock quickly during a trip to the local general store or hardware supplier. It handles everyday farm grime effectively and is gentle enough for daily use on a variety of surfaces.

While it may not outperform specialized heavy-duty industrial degreasers on thick engine sludge, it is a perfectly capable middle-ground product. If reliability and accessibility are the primary concerns, look no further.

Krud Kutter Original: For The Toughest Grease

Krud Kutter has earned a reputation for tackling some of the most stubborn grime in the workshop. While it sits at the intersection of powerful cleaning and environmental consciousness, it is formulated to handle jobs that would stop other plant-based cleaners in their tracks.

This product is the ideal candidate for cleaning oily floor stains, heavy-duty engine blocks, and chainsaws that have seen months of heavy forest clearing. Its formula acts as a proprietary blend that breaks the bond between the grease and the metal surface almost instantly.

Select Krud Kutter when the cleanup job is too significant for general-purpose soaps. It is an essential tool to have on hand for those major, end-of-season deep cleans where equipment needs to be returned to factory-like condition.

Puracy Multi-Surface: Best for Sensitive Areas

Not everything in the storage room requires a heavy-duty solvent. Puracy Multi-Surface is designed for precision cleaning where you need to avoid damage to sensitive gaskets, delicate rubber components, or specialized paint finishes.

This is the best option for cleaning high-touch items like the handles of power equipment or the consoles of ride-on mowers. Its gentle, pH-balanced formula ensures that equipment lasts longer by avoiding the drying or cracking effects of stronger chemicals.

If the workshop equipment inventory includes a high number of precision tools or sensitive electronics, choose Puracy. It provides a clean finish without the risk of long-term material degradation.

How to Choose The Right Plant-Based Degreaser

Selecting the right degreaser depends on the type of grease encountered and the frequency of use. Keep these factors in mind when making a purchase:

• Grease Severity: Heavy mineral-based engine grease requires a concentrated citrus solvent, while organic sap or dirt only needs a mild surfactant.
• Surface Material: Always check for compatibility with rubber seals and plastics, as some high-concentration citrus degreasers can cause cracking over time.
• Concentration vs. Ready-to-Use: Concentrates are better for long-term budget management, while ready-to-use sprays are better for quick, grab-and-go maintenance.

Consider the equipment volume on the farm. Larger fleets of machinery benefit from buying in bulk concentrates to save costs and reduce plastic waste.

Safety Tips When Using Plant-Based Degreasers

Even though these products are “plant-based,” they are still powerful chemicals that require basic safety protocols. Never assume that “natural” means it is safe for the skin or eyes.

• Wear Gloves: Prolonged exposure to degreasers, especially citrus-based concentrates, can strip natural oils from the skin and cause irritation.
• Proper Ventilation: Even citrus scents can become overpowering in a small, closed-off tool room. Always ensure adequate airflow during cleaning.
• Rinse Thoroughly: Leaving concentrated degreaser on metal surfaces can lead to streaks or potential oxidation if not wiped or rinsed away after the dirt is lifted.

Always store these products in their original containers to ensure the proper dilution instructions remain accessible. Keeping a dedicated “cleaning kit” in the workshop ensures that these safety items are used consistently.

Cleaning Concrete Floors: A Step-by-Step Guide

Concrete floors in equipment rooms inevitably accumulate oil drips and hydraulic fluid leaks. Keeping these clean prevents slips and stops the grease from migrating further into the workshop.

1. Clear the Area: Move all equipment to allow full access to the floor. Sweep up loose debris and dirt that can turn into mud when wet.
2. Pre-Treat Stains: Apply the concentrated degreaser directly to tough oil spots. Let it dwell for at least 15 minutes to allow the formula to penetrate the concrete pores.
3. Scrub Effectively: Use a stiff-bristle shop broom or a dedicated deck brush to agitate the cleaner into the floor. Circular motions are most effective for lifting embedded grease.
4. Rinse and Dry: Use a garden hose or a pressure washer to rinse the area thoroughly. Use a squeegee to push the excess water out of the storage room, then allow the area to air dry completely before returning equipment.

Maintaining a clean concrete floor prevents the “soaking effect,” where oils stay in the concrete and release fumes for weeks. Make this a quarterly chore to ensure the storage environment remains professional and safe.

A well-maintained workshop is the foundation of a successful farming season. By choosing the right plant-based degreaser for your specific equipment needs, you extend the life of your tools while staying true to sustainable farm practices. Keep the workspace clean, and the equipment will be ready the moment the soil is right for planting.