Best Hand Cleaners for Mechanics – 7 Options Reviewed

I’ve spent years wrenching on everything from vintage motorcycles to modern muscle cars, and let me tell you, finding the right hand cleaner is crucial. Nothing ruins a satisfying day of work like raw, cracked hands. This guide is the result of years of trial and error, testing various hand cleaners to find the best options for mechanics like myself. We’ll explore seven different hand cleaners, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses, so you can pick the perfect one for your needs and budget.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	Fast Orange Permatex 25217 Pumice Lotion, Heavy Duty Hand…	View on Amazon
	Zep Cherry Bomb Hand Cleaner (Ca) 48 ounce ZUCBHC48CA, Red	View on Amazon
	GOOP Multi-Purpose Hand Cleaner- Waterless Hand Degreaser,…	View on Amazon
	Fast Orange 25108 Pumice Lotion, Heavy Duty Hand Cleaner,…	View on Amazon
	Grip Clean – Hand Cleaner for Mechanics – Heavy-Duty…	View on Amazon
	Joe’s 105 Pack of Two All Purpose Hand Cleaner Tubes…	View on Amazon
	Grandpa Gus’s Super Hand Scrub, Walnut Shell Scrubbers,…	View on Amazon

1. Fast Orange Permatex 25217 Pumice Lotion, Heavy Duty Hand Cleaner

This is a classic for a reason. Fast Orange’s pumice lotion is a waterless cleaner that really cuts through grease and grime. The citrus scent is strong but refreshing, and it does a good job of masking those stubborn fuel odors. It’s also surprisingly gentle on my skin, thanks to the added moisturizers.

• No-water cleaning
• Pumice formula for effective scrubbing
• Pleasant citrus scent
• Contains aloe, lanolin, and glycerin

Pros:
– Effective at removing grease
– Pleasant scent
– Moisturizing ingredients

Cons:
– Can be a bit messy to apply
– Some users find the scent overpowering

User Feedback Summary: Mostly positive reviews praising its effectiveness and moisturizing properties. Some complaints about messiness and scent.

2. Zep Cherry Bomb Hand Cleaner (Ca) 48 ounce ZUCBHC48CA, Red

Zep Cherry Bomb is a powerful cleaner, ideal for those really tough jobs. The cherry scent is a nice change from the usual citrus, and it’s effective on a wide range of stains, not just grease. It’s a bit more abrasive than the Fast Orange, so it’s great for stubborn grime but might be too harsh for sensitive skin.

• Removes tough grease, paint, and other stains
• Cherry scent
• Mildly moisturizing

Pros:
– Very effective at removing stubborn grime
– Pleasant cherry scent

Cons:
– More abrasive than some other options
– Might be drying for some users

User Feedback Summary: Users appreciate its power but warn about potential dryness if used frequently.

3. GOOP Multi-Purpose Hand Cleaner- Waterless Hand Degreaser

GOOP is a versatile cleaner that’s not just for hands. I’ve used it on tools and even some stubborn stains on my clothes. The waterless formula is convenient, and it’s surprisingly gentle given its cleaning power. The natural ingredients are a plus, too.

• Waterless formula
• Removes grease, paint, ink, and more
• Natural ingredients
• Moisturizing

Pros:
– Versatile use
– Gentle on skin
– Natural ingredients

Cons:
– Can be a bit pricey

User Feedback Summary: Mostly positive reviews highlighting its versatility and gentle nature. The price point is a common discussion point.

4. Fast Orange 25108 Pumice Lotion, Heavy Duty Hand Cleaner

Similar to the Permatex version, but often found at different price points. This Fast Orange iteration also performs well, boasting a strong citrus scent and effective grease removal. The added moisturizers help prevent dryness, which is always a concern with heavy-duty cleaners.

• Powerful citrus cleaning
• Skin conditioning ingredients
• Gentle formula
• Versatile usage

Pros:
– Effective grease removal
– Pleasant citrus scent
– Moisturizing

Cons:
– Can be slightly messy

User Feedback Summary: Similar to the Permatex version, positive feedback on effectiveness and moisturizing properties.

5. Grip Clean – Hand Cleaner for Mechanics – Heavy-Duty

Grip Clean stands out with its concentrated formula. A little goes a long way, making it a cost-effective option in the long run. The natural ingredients are a welcome change from harsh chemicals, and it’s surprisingly gentle on my skin, even after repeated use.

• Concentrated formula
• Natural ingredients
• Moisturizing
• Gentle on skin

Pros:
– Cost-effective
– Natural ingredients
– Good for sensitive skin

Cons:
– Some users find it less effective than pumice-based cleaners for extremely stubborn grease

User Feedback Summary: Positive reviews emphasize its cost-effectiveness and gentleness, while some note it might not be as powerful as other options for the toughest grease.

6. Joe’s 105 Pack of Two All Purpose Hand Cleaner Tubes

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7. Grandpa Gus’s Super Hand Scrub, Walnut Shell Scrubbers

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Practical Buying Advice:

Choosing the right hand cleaner depends on your priorities. If you need maximum cleaning power, a pumice-based cleaner like Fast Orange or Zep Cherry Bomb might be best. For sensitive skin or frequent use, a gentler option with moisturizing ingredients like GOOP or Grip Clean is recommended. Consider the scent, too – some find strong citrus scents overpowering. Finally, think about your budget and how much you’re willing to spend per bottle or tube.

FAQ:

Q: How often should I wash my hands while working?
A: Wash your hands frequently, especially after handling different materials or fuels. Consider washing them at least every hour and always before eating.

Q: Can I use these hand cleaners on my tools?
A: Some, like GOOP, are specifically designed for cleaning tools as well as hands. Check the product description for versatility.

Q: Are these hand cleaners safe for sensitive skin?
A: Not all are. Look for products that advertise moisturizing ingredients and are free from harsh chemicals. GOOP and Grip Clean are generally well-regarded for sensitive skin.

Q: What should I do if a hand cleaner gets in my eyes?
A: Immediately flush your eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention if irritation persists.

Q: Which hand cleaner is best for removing paint?
A: Zep Cherry Bomb and GOOP are both effective at removing paint, but test a small area first.

Q: Are these hand cleaners biodegradable?
A: Check the product packaging; some are biodegradable, but it’s always good to ensure you are making a sustainable choice. GOOP is explicitly mentioned as biodegradable.

Q: What if my hands are already cracked and dry?
A: Before starting work, use a thick hand cream or moisturizer to protect your skin. Choose a hand cleaner with added moisturizing ingredients. After cleaning, use a rich moisturizing lotion.

Remember, taking care of your hands is as important as any other aspect of your job. Choose the right hand cleaner and you’ll be working comfortably and safely for years to come.