Why I Wrote This Guide on Methylated Spirit vs White Spirit?

Is methylated spirit the same as white spirit? I’ve always been a hands-on person when it comes to home maintenance and DIY projects.

Over the years, I found myself repeatedly reaching for bottles labelled methylated spirit and white spirit without fully understanding the difference.

One day, I accidentally used methylated spirit instead of white spirit while trying to clean a paintbrush—and the results weren’t what I expected.

That moment sparked a proper investigation into these commonly used household solvents.

If you’ve ever stood in the cleaning aisle at B&Q or Screwfix wondering whether these two spirits are interchangeable, then this guide is for you.

What Is Methylated Spirit Exactly?

Methylated spirit, often referred to as “meths” in the UK, is a denatured form of alcohol. Essentially, it’s ethanol with additives that make it unfit for consumption—hence the name “denatured alcohol”.

How is the Composition of Methylated Spirit?

Typically, it contains:

• 90–95% ethanol
  
• Methanol (toxic)
  
• Colourants (usually purple to indicate it’s poisonous)
  
• Bittering agents (to prevent ingestion)
  

What are the Common UK Uses? – From Cleaning to Disinfecting

Methylated spirit is commonly used for:

• Cleaning glass, windows, and mirrors (leaves no residue)
  
• Removing ink stains and adhesives
  
• Disinfecting surfaces and tools
  
• Fuel for alcohol burners
  

What are the Safety Concerns & Handling Tips?

Methylated spirit is highly flammable and toxic if inhaled or ingested. It should always be used in well-ventilated spaces, kept away from flames, and stored securely—especially if there are kids or pets at home.

What Is White Spirit and How Is It Used?

Unlike methylated spirit, white spirit is typically a petroleum-based solvent. It’s clear, oily, and has a strong chemical odour.

What White Spirit Is Made Of?

• Derived from mineral turpentine
• Contains a blend of hydrocarbons (mainly aliphatic)
• Sometimes mixed with additives for odour reduction
  

What is the Typical UK Uses? – Paint Thinning & Degreasing

White spirit is a go-to product in the UK for:

• Thinning oil-based paints and varnishes
  
• Cleaning paintbrushes and rollers
  
• Degreasing metal parts and tools
  
• Removing sticky residues from surfaces
  

How about the Safety, Ventilation, and Flammability Notes?

While not as volatile as methylated spirit, white spirit still releases harmful vapours and must be used in well-ventilated areas. It can cause skin irritation and must be handled with gloves and care.

Is Methylated Spirit the Same as White Spirit?

This is the million-pound question—and the short answer is: No, they are not the same.

What is the Key Chemical Differences?

Property	Methylated Spirit	White Spirit
Base	Ethanol (alcohol-based)	Petroleum distillate (oil-based)
Colour	Purple (dyed)	Clear
Smell	Alcoholic, sharp	Oily, chemical
Toxicity	High (methanol content)	Moderate
Flammability	Very high	Moderate to high

How is Visual, Smell, and Usage Differences?

If you’ve ever opened both bottles side by side, you’ll notice:

• Methylated spirit is purple and smells like rubbing alcohol.
  
• White spirit is clear and smells like turpentine.
  

Can They Be Used Interchangeably?

Absolutely not. Using one in place of the other can damage surfaces or ruin your project. For example:

• White spirit will leave oily residue on glass.
  
• Methylated spirit can damage paint or varnish.
  

Where Should You Use Methylated Spirit vs White Spirit?

Let’s break this down clearly:

How to Clean Glass, Mirrors, and Surfaces?

• ✅ Methylated Spirit: Perfect for streak-free cleaning
  
• ❌ White Spirit: Leaves residue, not recommended
  

How to use it for Paintwork, Brushes, and Adhesives?

• ✅ White Spirit: Ideal for thinning oil-based paints and cleaning brushes
  
• ❌ Methylated Spirit: Can damage painted surfaces
  

Quick Comparison Table

Task/Use	Recommended Spirit
Cleaning windows & glass	Methylated Spirit
Thinning oil-based paint	White Spirit
Cleaning paintbrushes	White Spirit
Removing sticky residue	White Spirit
Disinfecting hard surfaces	Methylated Spirit
Fuel for camping burners	Methylated Spirit

Which One Is Safer to Use at Home?

Toxicity, Fumes, and Residue

• Methylated spirit is more toxic due to methanol but evaporates cleanly.
• White spirit is less toxic, but can cause headaches and skin irritation.
  

Skin Contact and Ventilation Needs

• Both require gloves and ventilation.
• Methylated spirit evaporates faster and leaves no residue.
• White spirit is greasy and can linger in the air.
  

Child and Pet Safety at Home

• Neither is safe for unsupervised use around children or pets.
  
• Store securely and label containers clearly.
  

How to Store and Dispose of These Solvents Safely?

What is the Best Practices for Storage?

• Keep in original containers with sealed caps
  
• Store in cool, dry, ventilated places
  
• Keep away from open flames or heat sources
  

What are the UK Guidelines for Disposal?

• Never pour down drains or toilets
  
• Take to a local Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC)
  
• Contact your local council for collection services
  

How To Store & Dispose? – A Comparison Table

Criteria	Methylated Spirit	White Spirit
Store in cool area	Yes	Yes
Recyclable at HWRC	Yes	Yes
Safe to pour in sink	No	No
Flammable warning label	Yes	Yes

What is the Cost and Availability in the UK? – Which Is Cheaper?

Both spirits are widely available in UK stores and online.

How is Price Compared? (As of 2025)

Brand	Product	Price (Approx.)
B&Q	Methylated Spirit 500ml	£2.50
Screwfix	White Spirit 1L	£3.00
Wilko	Methylated Spirit 250ml	£1.80
Toolstation	White Spirit 750ml	£2.20

What are the Cost-Effectiveness Per Use?

• White spirit is more cost-effective for painting tasks.
• Methylated spirit lasts longer for small cleaning jobs.
  

My Final Verdict: Which One Do I Recommend?

After using both extensively, here’s how I choose between them:

When to Use Methylated Spirit?

• Cleaning glass and mirrors
  
• Removing sticker residue
  
• Disinfecting surfaces
  
• Fuel for camping stoves
  

When to Use White Spirit?

• Thinning oil-based paints
  
• Cleaning paintbrushes
  
• Degreasing metal tools
  

Can I Have a Quick Reference Bullet List?

Where To Use Methylated Spirit for?

• Cleaning glass or mirrors
  
• Disinfecting surfaces
  
• Removing ink or adhesives
  

Where To Use White Spirit for?

• Thinning paints
  
• Cleaning brushes
  
• Degreasing surfaces
  

Conclusion: Know Your Spirits Before You Start Your Next DIY

To wrap it up, methylated spirit and white spirit are definitely not the same. They serve different purposes, have different chemical makeups, and require different safety precautions.

I hope this guide on is methylated spirit the same as white spirit has cleared up any confusion and helped you understand the right solvent to reach for during your next home or DIY project.

Always read the label, use the correct protective gear, and follow safe storage and disposal methods.

Remember: When in doubt, choose the right spirit for the task—not just any bottle from the shed.

Related Article: How to Remove Tea Stains from Composite Sink? – Top DIY Tips