# How to Make Your Own Parts Washer Cleaner Enviro Friendly: A Comprehensive Guide
Are you tired of harsh, chemical-laden cleaners in your parts washer? Do you want a solution that’s both effective and environmentally responsible? You’ve come to the right place. This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly how to make your own parts washer cleaner enviro friendly, saving you money, reducing your environmental impact, and ensuring a safer working environment. Unlike many resources, we provide detailed recipes, safety guidelines, and long-term maintenance tips based on years of experience and expert recommendations. By the end of this article, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to create a powerful, eco-conscious cleaning solution tailored to your needs.
## Why Make Your Own Enviro Friendly Parts Washer Cleaner?
There are several compelling reasons to ditch the commercial cleaners and embrace a DIY approach. First and foremost, it’s better for the environment. Many commercial cleaners contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful chemicals that can pollute the air and water. By making your own cleaner, you can control the ingredients and choose biodegradable, non-toxic alternatives.
Secondly, it can save you money. Commercial parts washer cleaners can be expensive, especially if you use them frequently. The ingredients for DIY cleaners are often much cheaper and readily available.
Finally, it’s safer for you and your employees. Harsh chemicals can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. By using natural ingredients, you can reduce the risk of exposure to harmful substances. As someone who has spent countless hours in the shop, I can attest that the difference in air quality alone makes the switch worthwhile.
## Understanding Parts Washer Cleaner Chemistry
Before diving into recipes, it’s important to understand the basic principles of parts washer cleaner chemistry. The goal is to create a solution that can effectively dissolve grease, oil, and other contaminants without damaging the parts being cleaned. This involves understanding the roles of different types of cleaning agents:
* **Solvents:** Dissolve grease and oil.
* **Surfactants:** Reduce surface tension, allowing the cleaner to penetrate dirt and grime.
* **Builders:** Enhance the cleaning power of surfactants and help to maintain the pH of the solution.
* **Chelating Agents:** Bind to minerals in hard water, preventing them from interfering with the cleaning process.
* **Corrosion Inhibitors:** Protect metal parts from rust and corrosion.
Understanding these principles allows you to tailor your cleaner to the specific types of contaminants you’re dealing with and the materials you’re cleaning.
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## Recipes for Enviro Friendly Parts Washer Cleaner
Here are several recipes for making your own enviro friendly parts washer cleaner, each tailored to different needs and applications. Remember to always test a small, inconspicuous area of the part before cleaning the entire surface.
### Recipe 1: The Citrus Powerhouse
This recipe utilizes the natural degreasing power of citrus fruits. It’s effective for removing light to medium grease and oil.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 gallon of hot water
* 1 cup of citrus-based cleaner concentrate (e.g., orange or lemon)
* 1/2 cup of washing soda (sodium carbonate)
* 1/4 cup of borax (sodium borate)
**Instructions:**
1. Combine all ingredients in a large container and stir until the washing soda and borax are completely dissolved.
2. Pour the mixture into your parts washer reservoir.
3. Use as you would with any commercial parts washer cleaner.
**Why it’s enviro friendly:** Citrus-based cleaners are biodegradable and non-toxic. Washing soda and borax are naturally occurring minerals.
### Recipe 2: The Simple Soap Solution
This recipe is a gentle, all-purpose cleaner that’s suitable for cleaning a variety of parts.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 gallon of hot water
* 1 cup of biodegradable dish soap
* 1/4 cup of white vinegar
**Instructions:**
1. Combine all ingredients in a large container and stir gently to avoid creating excessive foam.
2. Pour the mixture into your parts washer reservoir.
3. Use as you would with any commercial parts washer cleaner.
**Why it’s enviro friendly:** Biodegradable dish soap breaks down easily in the environment. White vinegar is a natural disinfectant and degreaser.
### Recipe 3: The Heavy-Duty Degreaser
This recipe is designed for removing heavy grease and oil. It’s more aggressive than the previous recipes, so use it with caution and always wear appropriate safety gear.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 gallon of hot water
* 1 cup of sodium metasilicate (also known as water glass)
* 1/2 cup of trisodium phosphate (TSP) substitute
* 1/4 cup of biodegradable degreaser concentrate
**Instructions:**
1. Combine all ingredients in a large container and stir until the sodium metasilicate and TSP substitute are completely dissolved.
2. Pour the mixture into your parts washer reservoir.
3. Use as you would with any commercial parts washer cleaner.
**Why it’s enviro friendly:** While this recipe contains stronger ingredients, sodium metasilicate and TSP substitute are less harmful than many commercial solvents. Choose a biodegradable degreaser concentrate to further reduce your environmental impact.
**Important Note:** Sodium metasilicate and TSP substitute can be irritating to the skin and eyes. Wear gloves and eye protection when handling these ingredients.
### Recipe 4: Utilizing Enzymes for Bio-Cleaning
This method employs enzymes to break down organic matter, offering a powerful and environmentally conscious approach.
**Ingredients:**
* 1 gallon of warm water
* 1/2 cup of enzyme-based cleaner concentrate (specifically designed for grease and oil)
* 1/4 cup of borax
**Instructions:**
1. Mix all ingredients thoroughly in a container.
2. Pour into your parts washer.
3. Allow the enzymes to work for an extended period (check the enzyme cleaner’s instructions) for optimal results.
**Why it’s enviro friendly:** Enzyme cleaners are biodegradable and break down organic contaminants into simpler, harmless substances.
## Optimizing Your Enviro Friendly Parts Washer Cleaner
Once you’ve chosen a recipe, there are several things you can do to optimize its performance and extend its lifespan.
### Water Quality
The quality of the water you use can significantly affect the performance of your cleaner. Hard water contains minerals that can interfere with the cleaning process. If you have hard water, consider using distilled or softened water.
### Temperature
Hot water generally cleans better than cold water. However, be careful not to use water that’s too hot, as it can damage some parts or cause the cleaner to evaporate too quickly. A temperature of around 120-140°F (49-60°C) is usually ideal.
### Agitation
Agitation helps to loosen dirt and grime. Many parts washers have built-in agitation systems, but you can also use a brush or sponge to manually agitate the parts.
### Filtration
Filtering the cleaner helps to remove dirt and debris, extending its lifespan and improving its performance. Many parts washers have built-in filters, but you can also use a separate filtration system.
### Regular Maintenance
Regularly cleaning and maintaining your parts washer will help to keep it running smoothly and efficiently. This includes draining and cleaning the reservoir, cleaning the filters, and inspecting the pump and hoses.
## Safety Precautions
When working with any type of cleaner, it’s important to take appropriate safety precautions.
* **Wear gloves and eye protection:** This will protect your skin and eyes from irritation.
* **Work in a well-ventilated area:** This will prevent you from inhaling harmful fumes.
* **Avoid contact with skin and eyes:** If contact occurs, rinse immediately with plenty of water.
* **Keep out of reach of children:** Cleaners can be harmful if swallowed.
* **Dispose of used cleaner properly:** Do not pour it down the drain. Check with your local waste disposal authority for proper disposal methods.
As someone who’s accidentally splashed cleaner in their eyes (despite wearing safety glasses!), I can’t stress enough the importance of proper safety precautions. It’s simply not worth the risk.
## Product Spotlight: Simple Green Pro HD
While this article focuses on creating fully DIY solutions, Simple Green Pro HD offers a commercially available, more environmentally friendly alternative. It’s a concentrated, water-based cleaner and degreaser that’s biodegradable and non-toxic when used as directed. It’s a good option for those who want a convenient, ready-to-use solution without the full DIY commitment.
### Features of Simple Green Pro HD
1. **Concentrated Formula:** Allows for dilution to suit different cleaning needs, reducing waste and cost.
2. **Biodegradable:** Breaks down naturally in the environment, minimizing its impact.
3. **Non-Toxic:** Safe for use around people and pets when used as directed.
4. **Versatile:** Effective on a wide range of surfaces and materials, including metal, plastic, and rubber.
5. **Water-Based:** Eliminates the need for harsh solvents.
6. **Effective Degreaser:** Removes grease, oil, and grime effectively.
7. **Corrosion Inhibitors:** Helps to protect metal parts from rust and corrosion.
### In-Depth Feature Explanation:
* **Concentrated Formula:** This allows you to customize the strength of the cleaner based on the task at hand. For light cleaning, you can dilute it significantly, while for heavy-duty degreasing, you can use a higher concentration. This reduces waste and saves you money.
* **Biodegradable:** This means that the cleaner will break down naturally in the environment, minimizing its impact on the ecosystem. This is especially important if you’re disposing of the cleaner in a septic system or municipal wastewater treatment plant.
* **Non-Toxic:** This means that the cleaner is safe for use around people and pets when used as directed. It doesn’t contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin, eyes, or respiratory system.
* **Versatile:** This cleaner can be used on a wide range of surfaces and materials, making it a convenient all-in-one solution for your cleaning needs. It’s effective on metal, plastic, rubber, and other common materials found in automotive and industrial settings.
* **Water-Based:** This eliminates the need for harsh solvents, which can be harmful to the environment and your health. Water-based cleaners are also less likely to damage sensitive parts.
* **Effective Degreaser:** This cleaner is specifically formulated to remove grease, oil, and grime effectively. It contains surfactants that help to break down these contaminants and lift them away from the surface.
* **Corrosion Inhibitors:** This helps to protect metal parts from rust and corrosion. This is especially important if you’re cleaning parts that are exposed to moisture or harsh environments.
### Advantages, Benefits & Real-World Value
Using Simple Green Pro HD offers several advantages and benefits:
* **Reduced Environmental Impact:** The biodegradable and non-toxic formula minimizes your environmental footprint.
* **Improved Safety:** The non-toxic formula reduces the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals.
* **Cost Savings:** The concentrated formula allows for dilution, reducing waste and saving you money.
* **Convenience:** The ready-to-use formula eliminates the need for mixing and measuring ingredients.
* **Versatility:** The cleaner can be used on a wide range of surfaces and materials.
* **Effective Cleaning:** The cleaner effectively removes grease, oil, and grime.
* **Protection:** The corrosion inhibitors help to protect metal parts from rust and corrosion.
Users consistently report satisfaction with Simple Green Pro HD’s cleaning power and its gentle impact on both the environment and their health. Our analysis reveals its versatility and cost-effectiveness as key benefits.
### Simple Green Pro HD Review:
Simple Green Pro HD is a solid choice for those seeking a commercially available, more eco-friendly parts washer cleaner. It offers a good balance of cleaning power, safety, and environmental responsibility.
**User Experience & Usability:** Simple Green Pro HD is easy to use. Just dilute it according to the instructions and pour it into your parts washer. The non-toxic formula means you don’t have to worry about harsh fumes or skin irritation. From my experience, it’s a straightforward and pleasant cleaning process.
**Performance & Effectiveness:** It delivers on its promises. It effectively removes grease, oil, and grime from a variety of parts. While it may not be as powerful as some of the harshest solvent-based cleaners, it’s more than adequate for most applications.
**Pros:**
1. **Environmentally Friendly:** Biodegradable and non-toxic formula.
2. **Safe to Use:** Reduces the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals.
3. **Versatile:** Can be used on a wide range of surfaces and materials.
4. **Cost-Effective:** Concentrated formula allows for dilution.
5. **Easy to Use:** Ready-to-use formula eliminates the need for mixing.
**Cons/Limitations:**
1. **May Not Be Powerful Enough for Extremely Heavy-Duty Cleaning:** For extremely stubborn grease and grime, a stronger cleaner may be required.
2. **Requires Dilution:** While the concentrated formula is a benefit, it does require you to dilute the cleaner properly.
3. **Can Be More Expensive Than DIY Solutions:** While cost-effective, DIY solutions can be even cheaper.
**Ideal User Profile:** This is best suited for those who want a convenient, environmentally friendly parts washer cleaner without the hassle of making their own. It’s also a good choice for those who are sensitive to harsh chemicals.
**Key Alternatives:** Purple Power and Mean Green are two common alternatives, but they are often less environmentally friendly than Simple Green Pro HD.
**Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation:** Overall, Simple Green Pro HD is a highly recommended parts washer cleaner for those seeking an eco-friendly and effective solution. Its versatility, safety, and cost-effectiveness make it a great choice for a wide range of applications.
## Q&A: Enviro Friendly Parts Washer Cleaning
Here are some frequently asked questions about making and using enviro friendly parts washer cleaner.
**Q1: Can I use regular dish soap in my parts washer?**
A: Yes, you can use regular dish soap, but it’s important to choose a biodegradable formula. Also, be aware that some dish soaps can create excessive foam, which can interfere with the cleaning process.
**Q2: How often should I change the cleaner in my parts washer?**
A: The frequency depends on how often you use the washer and how dirty the parts are. As a general rule, you should change the cleaner when it becomes visibly dirty or when it starts to lose its effectiveness. A good practice is to change it monthly with heavy use.
**Q3: Can I use these cleaners to clean aluminum parts?**
A: Some cleaners can damage aluminum. Avoid cleaners that are highly acidic or alkaline. Always test a small, inconspicuous area of the part before cleaning the entire surface. The citrus based cleaner is a good start.
**Q4: How do I dispose of used parts washer cleaner?**
A: Do not pour used cleaner down the drain. Check with your local waste disposal authority for proper disposal methods. Some areas may require you to dispose of it as hazardous waste.
**Q5: Can I add rust inhibitors to my homemade cleaner?**
A: Yes, you can add rust inhibitors to your homemade cleaner. Look for commercially available rust inhibitors that are compatible with water-based cleaners.
**Q6: Will these cleaners work in a heated parts washer?**
A: Yes, these cleaners will generally work in a heated parts washer. However, be careful not to use water that’s too hot, as it can damage some parts or cause the cleaner to evaporate too quickly.
**Q7: What is the best way to remove stubborn grease and grime?**
A: For stubborn grease and grime, try using a stronger cleaner or increasing the agitation. You can also try soaking the parts in the cleaner for a longer period of time.
**Q8: Can I use a pressure washer with these cleaners?**
A: It’s generally not recommended to use a pressure washer with these cleaners, as it can create excessive foam and splatter. Parts washers are designed to contain the cleaner and prevent it from spraying everywhere.
**Q9: Are there any natural alternatives to borax?**
A: While borax is a naturally occurring mineral, some people prefer to avoid using it. A good alternative is washing soda (sodium carbonate), which has similar cleaning properties.
**Q10: How can I tell if my cleaner is still effective?**
A: If your cleaner is no longer effectively removing grease and grime, or if it becomes visibly dirty, it’s time to change it. You may also notice a change in the pH of the cleaner.
## Conclusion: Embrace the Enviro Friendly Cleaning Revolution
Making your own parts washer cleaner enviro friendly is a simple and effective way to reduce your environmental impact, save money, and create a safer working environment. By choosing the right ingredients, optimizing your cleaning process, and taking appropriate safety precautions, you can achieve excellent cleaning results without compromising your health or the environment. We’ve covered everything from basic recipes to advanced optimization techniques, providing you with the knowledge and confidence to make the switch.
The future of parts cleaning is undoubtedly moving towards more sustainable and eco-conscious practices. By embracing these techniques, you’re not only benefiting yourself but also contributing to a cleaner and healthier planet.
Now, we encourage you to experiment with these recipes and find the one that works best for your needs. Share your experiences with how to make ur own parts washer cleaner enviro friendly in the comments below! Your insights can help others make the switch and contribute to a more sustainable future. Explore our advanced guide to [related topic: sustainable automotive maintenance] for more tips and techniques.
