Many people confuse turpentine (turps) and methylated spirits because both are commonly used as solvents, cleaners, and thinners. However, these two substances have distinct chemical compositions, uses, and safety considerations. Understanding their differences can help ensure they are used correctly and safely.
In this topic, we will explore the properties, uses, and safety precautions of turpentine vs. methylated spirits, helping you determine which one is suitable for your needs.
What Is Turpentine?
Chemical Composition
Turpentine, often called turps, is a natural solvent derived from the distillation of resin from pine trees. It contains terpenes, primarily alpha-pinene and beta-pinene, which give it a distinctive strong odor.
Common Uses of Turpentine
Turpentine is widely used in:
- Paint thinning – Ideal for oil-based paints.
- Cleaning brushes – Effective for removing oil-based paints from paintbrushes.
- Varnish production – Used as a solvent in varnishes and coatings.
- Medicine – Historically used for medicinal purposes, though less common today.
- Wood treatment – Helps in polishing and preserving wood.
Safety Considerations
Turpentine is flammable and toxic when inhaled or ingested. It should always be used in a well-ventilated area with proper protective gear such as gloves and masks.
What Is Methylated Spirits?
Chemical Composition
Methylated spirits, also known as denatured alcohol, is a form of ethanol mixed with additives (such as methanol or pyridine) to make it undrinkable. It typically contains 90-95% ethanol and is colored purple for easy identification.
Common Uses of Methylated Spirits
Methylated spirits have a variety of applications, including:
- Cleaning agent – Used for degreasing surfaces and cleaning glass.
- Disinfectant – Effective in killing germs and bacteria.
- Fuel for alcohol burners – Commonly used in camping stoves.
- Paint thinner – Used for thinning shellac-based paints.
- Removing adhesives – Helps in dissolving sticker residues and glue.
Safety Considerations
Methylated spirits are highly flammable and should be kept away from heat or open flames. Inhalation of fumes can be harmful, and direct contact with skin may cause irritation.
Key Differences Between Turpentine and Methylated Spirits
| Feature | Turpentine (Turps) | Methylated Spirits (Denatured Alcohol) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Distilled from pine resin | Ethanol with additives (denatured) |
| Main Components | Terpenes (alpha-pinene) | Ethanol (90-95%) with methanol |
| Odor | Strong, pine-like smell | Sharp, alcohol-like odor |
| Flammability | Highly flammable | Highly flammable |
| Uses | Paint thinner, varnish solvent, wood treatment | Cleaning, disinfecting, fuel, adhesive removal |
| Toxicity | Toxic if inhaled or ingested | Harmful if ingested, can irritate skin |
| Solubility | Insoluble in water | Soluble in water |
Can You Substitute Turpentine for Methylated Spirits?
While both are solvents, they are not always interchangeable. Here’s when you can and cannot substitute one for the other:
- For cleaning paintbrushes: Both can be used, but turpentine is more effective for oil-based paints, while methylated spirits work better for shellac-based paints.
- For thinning paints: Use turpentine for oil-based paints and methylated spirits for shellac or alcohol-based paints.
- For disinfecting: Only methylated spirits should be used, as turpentine is not a disinfectant.
- For fuel: Only methylated spirits is safe for use as fuel; turpentine is unsuitable for burning in alcohol stoves.
Which One Should You Use?
Choose Turpentine If:
✅ You need to thin oil-based paints or varnishes.
✅ You want to clean paintbrushes used with oil-based paints.
✅ You are working with wood finishes or traditional furniture polish.
Choose Methylated Spirits If:
✅ You need a strong cleaning agent for glass, metal, or surfaces.
✅ You require a disinfectant or sanitizer.
✅ You need fuel for alcohol burners or camping stoves.
✅ You want to remove sticker residue or adhesives.
Although turpentine and methylated spirits are both solvents, they serve different purposes and should not be confused. Turpentine is best suited for paint thinning and wood treatments, while methylated spirits excel in cleaning, disinfecting, and fuel applications.
Using the right solvent for the right task ensures better results, increased safety, and improved efficiency. Always handle these chemicals with care and follow proper safety guidelines to avoid hazards.