They can be : WATER BASED - Water-based degreasers, typically non-flammable, are an effective mixture of detergents and inhibitors, removing grease and dirt with ease. SOLVENT BASE - Solvent based degreasers are often formulated with chlorinated, fluorinated, chlorofluorocarbons, acetone and esters. Many solvent-based degreasers are flammable, even if derived from essential oils. They allow even the heaviest grease and dirt to be removed from parts and equipment.