2-Methoxyethanol
- Glycol ether solvents
- CAS 109-86-4
- IUPAC: 2-Methoxyethanol
CarCareTruth tracks 2-Methoxyethanol (CAS 109-86-4) as a car-care ingredient. It is listed on California's Proposition 65 and classified as a VOC.
Classified as Reproductive Toxin Category 1B (H360D — may damage the unborn child) under GHS/REACH. California Prop 65 listed for developmental toxicity and male reproductive toxicity. Even at trace concentrations (< 0.1%) in consumer products, the reproductive toxin classification is a significant concern for pregnant individuals. Metabolizes to methoxyacetic acid, which interferes with spermatogenesis and embryo development. SARA Section 313 reporting chemical.
2-Methoxyethanol (methyl cellosolve, CAS 109-86-4) is a glycol ether co-solvent formerly used widely in paints, coatings, and cleaning products. Its use has declined significantly in consumer products due to confirmed reproductive toxicity — it is classified as Repr. 1B under GHS, meaning it is presumed to damage the unborn child based on animal data.
The primary health concern is reproductive toxicity: 2-methoxyethanol metabolizes in the body to methoxyacetic acid, which is teratogenic (causes birth defects) and damages male reproductive function (testicular atrophy, spermatotoxicity). California lists it under Prop 65 for both developmental toxicity and male reproductive toxicity. It is listed as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC) under EU REACH.
In consumer windshield deicers, 2-methoxyethanol appears at very low concentrations (< 0.1%) and is not the primary active — methanol is. At these trace levels, acute exposure risk is low during normal outdoor use, but the reproductive classification applies regardless of concentration. The product's Prop 65 warning reflects this ingredient (along with methanol's developmental listing).
Health & environment profile
- VOC
- yes
- Prop 65 listed
- yes
- Asthmagen
- no
- EPA Safer Choice
- no
- Aquatic toxicity
- no
- Biodegradable
- yes
- Bioaccumulative
- no
- Persistent
- no
- Ozone depleting
- no
- Microplastic
- no
- PFAS
- no
- Env. score
- 2/5
Common questions about 2-Methoxyethanol
- What is 2-Methoxyethanol used for in car care?
- Co-solvent and wetting agent in windshield deicers and industrial cleaners; improves surface wetting and freeze-point depression
- Is 2-Methoxyethanol a VOC?
- Yes. 2-Methoxyethanol is classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC).
- Is 2-Methoxyethanol on California's Proposition 65 list?
- Yes. 2-Methoxyethanol appears on California's Proposition 65 list.
- Is 2-Methoxyethanol biodegradable?
- Yes. 2-Methoxyethanol has a confirmed biodegradable profile.
No products on file contain this (yet)
Related
Health and environment notes translate the manufacturer Safety Data Sheet, the GHS classification, and authoritative regulatory listings (California Prop 65, EPA). Not medical advice. They describe the ingredient itself; whether a hazard applies to a finished product depends on its concentration and how it's used.