Brake cleaner isn’t just for brakes. Whether you’re degreasing a caliper, flushing a bearing, or blasting grime out of your lawnmower engine, a good brake cleaner is a must-have in the shop. But not all cans are created equal.
At CEM Industrial Supply, we’ve sprayed, sniffed, and scraped with every major brand on the shelf. This article breaks down which brake cleaner actually cleans—and which just leaves a mess.
Chlorinated vs. Non-Chlorinated: What’s the Difference?
- Chlorinated brake cleaners are stronger, evaporate fast, and leave no residue. They’re also highly flammable and banned in some states.
- Non-chlorinated versions are safer for plastics and better for sensitive areas—but often take longer to dry and may leave behind residue.
Pro tip: If you’re doing heavy metal cleaning outdoors or in a well-ventilated area, chlorinated usually gets the job done faster.
The Contenders: What We Stock and Recommend
1. CRC Brakleen (Red Can – Chlorinated)
- Why it’s great: This is the gold standard. It cleans fast, evaporates completely, and cuts through everything.
- Best use: Brake calipers, engine parts, metal surfaces.
- Downside: Harsh on rubber and plastics. Keep it off hoses and seals.
2. PB B’laster Brake Cleaner (Non-Chlorinated)
- Why it’s great: Safer for enclosed workspaces and doesn’t destroy rubber or painted surfaces.
- Real-world results: Slightly slower to evaporate, but safer on sensitive assemblies.
- Smell: Not too bad, actually.
3. 3M High Power Brake Cleaner (Chlorinated)
- Why it’s great: Professional-grade cleaner with a powerful spray.
- Real-world results: Top-tier performance, especially when parts are greasy or caked with brake dust.
- Price point: A bit higher, but worth it when you need the job done fast.
4. NAPA Brake Cleaner
- Why it’s great: Budget-friendly and available in both formulas.
- Real-world results: Decent cleaning power but requires more spray time compared to CRC or 3M.
- Smell: Strong chemical odor—open those doors.
Residue and Dry Time Test Results
We did a side-by-side test on steel rotors and aluminum brackets. Here’s how fast they dried and whether they left behind any film:
| Brand | Dry Time (seconds) | Residue? |
|---|---|---|
| CRC Brakleen | 8 seconds | None |
| 3M Cleaner | 9 seconds | None |
| PB B’laster | 14 seconds | Slight |
| NAPA Cleaner | 12–16 seconds | Moderate |
Best Overall Cleaner: CRC Brakleen
If you need fast, reliable results on heavy metal parts and don’t mind some ventilation, CRC Brakleen (red can) is our top pick. It’s a go-to for professional mechanics and plant maintenance alike.
Best Safe-Use Cleaner: PB B’laster Brake Cleaner
Working in enclosed garages or around rubber seals? Go with PB B’laster. It’s gentler but still gets the job done.
Final Word: Use It Right
- Always spray on a cool surface.
- Avoid painted or plastic parts unless the product says it’s safe.
- Use gloves and goggles when possible.
- Don’t light a cigarette around chlorinated cleaners—trust us.
Get the Right Cleaner at CEM
We stock all the brake cleaner brands mentioned above—and more. Whether you’re detailing your ride, maintaining a forklift, or degreasing farm equipment, we’ve got the right can for the job.
Visit CEM Industrial Supply or call us at 517-617-4089 for stock info, bundle pricing, and shop safety tips.