Denatured alcohol is ethanol that has had other substances, called denaturants, added to make it unsuitable for drinking. In other words, “denatured” doesn’t mean that it is a completely different type of alcohol—the ethanol has been intentionally altered so it can be used for non-beverage purposes.
Denatured alcohol is used as a solvent in a variety of industrial, cleaning, painting, and finishing applications. There isn’t one universal denatured alcohol formula, however, so its exact composition can vary from one product or formulation to another.
What is Denatured Alcohol and What’s It Made Of?
The primary alcohol in denatured alcohol is ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol. One or more denaturants are then added to make the alcohol unfit for beverage use.
The substances used as denaturants vary by formula and can include chemicals such as methanol, isopropyl alcohol, acetone, or other approved materials. Because different formulations exist, you shouldn’t assume that every product labeled denatured alcohol has the same ingredients or alcohol concentration.
Check the product label and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) when you need to know the composition of a particular product.
What is Denatured Alcohol Used For?
Denatured alcohol is valued primarily as a fast-evaporating solvent. Depending on the particular product and application, it can be used for cleaning and degreasing surfaces, removing certain residues, working with some finishes, and other solvent-related tasks.
Its usefulness as a solvent doesn’t mean it’s appropriate for every surface. Denatured alcohol can affect some paints, finishes, plastics, and other materials, so always make sure it is suitable for the surface and job before using it.
How is Denatured Alcohol Used for in Painting?
Painters and finishers may use denatured alcohol for certain cleaning, surface-preparation, and finishing applications. One of its best-known uses is working with shellac, where alcohol is used as a solvent for appropriate shellac products and for cleanup.
It can also be useful for removing certain contaminants or residues during preparation when the coating or product manufacturer recommends it. Before using denatured alcohol on an existing painted or finished surface, test it in an inconspicuous area and make sure it won’t damage the coating underneath.
Denatured Alcohol vs. Isopropyl Alcohol: What’s the Difference?
Denatured alcohol and isopropyl alcohol are not the same thing. Denatured alcohol is primarily ethanol that has been made unfit for drinking by adding denaturants, while isopropyl alcohol, or isopropanol, is a different type of alcohol.
Both can be used as solvents and cleaning agents, so some of their applications overlap. However, their composition and performance aren’t identical, and they shouldn’t automatically be substituted for one another.
Rubbing alcohol is also commonly made with isopropyl alcohol and water, often along with other ingredients. As a result, rubbing alcohol and denatured alcohol shouldn’t be treated as interchangeable products either.
Denatured Alcohol vs. Mineral Spirits
Denatured alcohol and mineral spirits are different types of solvents. Denatured alcohol is ethanol-based, while mineral spirits are petroleum-derived.
They are used for different coatings, cleaning jobs, and materials. Rather than substituting one for the other, use the solvent specified for the paint, finish, or project you’re working with.
What Can You Substitute for Denatured Alcohol?
There isn’t one substitute for denatured alcohol that works for every application. An appropriate alternative depends on what you’re using the alcohol for and the product or surface you’re working with.
For painting and finishing projects, check the manufacturer’s instructions before substituting another solvent. A product that works as an alternative for one task may be unsuitable for another.
Is Denatured Alcohol Dangerous?
Denatured alcohol is not safe to drink and should never be consumed. Depending on its formulation, it can contain hazardous denaturants, and it is also highly flammable.
Keep it away from flames, sparks, and other ignition sources, use it with adequate ventilation, and follow the product label and Safety Data Sheet for handling, storage, personal protective equipment, and disposal.
Where Can You Buy Denatured Alcohol?
For solvents, cleaners, paint, and other supplies for your next project, visit Loconsolo Paints stores throughout New York. Our knowledgeable team can help you determine which product is appropriate for the painting, cleaning, or finishing job you’re working on and how to use it properly.
Visit one of our NYC locations to get the right products and supplies for your project.