CarCareTruth

2-Butoxyethanol

  • Glycol ether solvents
  • CAS 111-76-2
  • IUPAC: 2-butoxyethan-1-ol

Harmful if swallowed (H302), harmful in contact with skin (H312), and harmful if inhaled (H332). Causes skin irritation (H315) and serious eye irritation (H319). May cause drowsiness or dizziness (H336). Signal word WARNING. H332 is often omitted in consumer SDSs — check SDS Section 3 for CAS 111-76-2 when evaluating finished products.

2-Butoxyethanol (EGBE) is a common solvent in engine degreasers, all-purpose cleaners, and car wash concentrates. It provides excellent grease-cutting performance and water miscibility. **SDS alert**: Many consumer-grade SDSs underreport this ingredient. Check Section 3 for CAS 111-76-2. H332 (harmful if inhaled) is often omitted in consumer SDSs despite being in the industrial MSDS. If present at >3%, adequate ventilation is required. ## Regulatory status - Not CA Prop 65 listed - EU restricted in certain spray applications at concentrations >3% (CLP/REACH)

Health & environment profile

VOC
yes
Prop 65 listed
no
Asthmagen
no
EPA Safer Choice
no
Aquatic toxicity
no
Biodegradable
yes
Bioaccumulative
no
Persistent
no
Ozone depleting
no
Microplastic
no
PFAS
no
Env. score
3/5
Purpose: Solvent, degreaser, and surfactant aid in engine degreasers, all-purpose cleaners, and car wash concentrates

9 products contain this

Health summaries are editorial — we synthesize from SDSs, peer-reviewed sources, and regulatory listings. Not medical advice.