Ultrasonic Cleaner – Surprisingly Useful for Small Parts

[hans25]

I recently bought a small ultrasonic cleaner for my workshop, mainly to clean metal tools and carburetor parts, and I’m honestly impressed with the results. Items that normally take 20 minutes of brushing come out nearly spotless after just a few cleaning cycles.

I’ve also used it for watch bands, coins, dental tools, and even old screws covered in grease. Warm water with a little cleaning solution seems to work best. One thing I learned quickly: avoid putting delicate painted parts or soft plastics inside for too long.

Noise level is acceptable, though the cheaper models can sound a bit harsh. Capacity matters more than I expected too — if you plan to clean larger components, get a bigger tank from the start.

For anyone doing mechanical work, electronics repair, or hobby restoration, an ultrasonic cleaner is definitely worth considering.

 

[kb3]

I've been looking at these, but haven't really talked to anyone that has used one. I see lots of folks pushing them on social media so it is good to hear from someone that has real world experience. What type of "cleaning solution" are you using? I have heard they might discolor aluminum parts.

 

[Midlife]

Do NOT use a sonic cleaner on wiring or electrical parts.

 

[Horseplay]

Do NOT use a sonic cleaner on wiring or electrical parts.

What if you unplug them first?

 

[Midlife]

You don't want any water-based liquids to intrude into the wire/insulation and corrode the copper wires. While the insulation may look intact, it is not worth the risk should there be a small break. You can clean wires with solvent-based material, such as lacquer thinner.

 

[Russstang]

Not even if you put it in a bag of rice afterwards…….?

 

[Jim Herrud]

I am using the ultrasonic cleaner I inherited from my Dad. He was a jeweler for 67 years. This 1970's-era GemOro 3-quart Ultrasonic is the one I used when my Dad taught me ring sizing and jewelry repair when I was in high school. I worked for him part-time until I graduated college.

GemOro is still the same company started in 1968 and still makes an updated version of this cleaner.



Among the various parts holders, I use a small glass jar with a plastic lid in order to clean small parts in solvent. Using a jar protects the S.S. tank and enables the use of a smaller amount of solvent. The glass conducts the sound waves better than plastic.

I've seen warnings against the use of solvents with a low flashpoint, like gasoline, acetone, brake cleaner, or lacquer thinner inside the jar, especially if the cleaner has heating capability like this one does. I have done this, but I don't use the heat or let the unit run for long unattended.

You can buy specialized cleaning solutions for these cleaners. My Dad's choice for jewelry was "Mr. Clean".