
Powerful cleaning performance. A more considered approach to chemistry.
Tar, adhesive and oil residues can be some of the most stubborn contaminants to remove – which is why professional detailers, valeters and automotive cleaning specialists need a product that gets straight to work.
But powerful cleaning doesn’t have to mean standing still when it comes to chemistry.
As part of Nielsen Chemicals’ ongoing commitment to developing safer chemistry, we’re taking our proven Tar & Glue Remover in a new direction – with the launch of a new xylene-free formulation, coming soon.
The result? A new generation of tar and glue removal designed to deliver the cleaning performance professionals expect, while taking a more proactive approach to the chemicals used in the workplace.

Why are we making the change?
At Nielsen, product development isn’t simply about creating products that work. It’s about continually asking how we can make those products better – for our customers, their teams and the working environments in which they are used.
That means looking beyond cleaning performance and considering the wider impact of the chemistry behind the product.
Our existing Tar & Glue Remover is a solvent-based formulation designed to rapidly remove tar, oil and adhesive residues from vehicle surfaces.
Now we’re developing a xylene-free alternative as part of our commitment to safer chemistry. It’s a proactive step that reflects the changing expectations around workplace chemical safety and our belief that innovation should not stop at performance.
What does HSE say about solvents and COSHH?
The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) requires employers to assess the risks associated with hazardous substances and to prevent or adequately control exposure under the Control of Substances Hazardous to Health (COSHH) Regulations.
HSE guidance specifically recommends considering whether a hazardous substance can be substituted with another substance that presents less or no risk.
HSE also advises that exposure should be prevented where possible and, where this isn’t reasonably practicable, controlled to a level that is as low as reasonably practicable. For businesses using professional cleaning chemicals, this makes chemical selection an increasingly important part of workplace safety.
And that’s exactly where we believe product innovation can make a difference.

Nielsen’s commitment to safer chemistry
At Nielsen Chemicals, we’re constantly looking for ways to improve our formulations and the experience they provide for customers.
Safer chemistry is about progress.
It’s about challenging established formulations, investigating alternative ingredients and finding ways to reduce potential concerns without compromising the performance professionals rely on.
Our move towards a xylene-free Tar & Glue Remover is part of that wider approach. Rather than waiting for customers to ask for an alternative, we’re proactively developing one.
Because we believe the future of professional automotive cleaning should be about effective chemistry that’s also more thoughtfully formulated.
Introducing Xylene-Free Tar & Glue Remover – coming soon
The same tough cleaning challenge. A new approach to the chemistry behind it.
Our new Xylene-Free Tar & Glue Remover is being developed to provide professionals with an alternative solution for tackling stubborn:
- Tar spots
- Adhesive residues
- Oil and greasy deposits
- Road contamination
- General solvent-soluble residues
It builds on the established purpose of Nielsen’s Tar & Glue Remover – a product designed for rapid removal of tar, oil and adhesive residues, suitable for interior and exterior vehicle applications.
Most importantly, the new formulation gives professional users another choice.
Xylene-free doesn’t mean performance-free. We’re focused on developing a formulation that delivers the cleaning capability customers expect from Nielsen, while taking another step towards safer chemistry.

Coming soon
The new Nielsen Xylene-Free Tar & Glue Remover will be available soon.
If you’re looking to review the chemicals used within your operation, reduce reliance on xylene-containing products or simply want to be among the first to hear when the new formulation becomes available, talk to the Nielsen team today.
A better choice starts with better chemistry
Frequently Asked Questions
What is xylene used for?
Xylene is an industrial solvent used in a wide range of applications, including cleaning products, adhesives, polishes, waxes and other industrial products.
Why is Nielsen developing a xylene-free Tar & Glue Remover?
Nielsen is developing a xylene-free alternative as part of its commitment to safer chemistry. The aim is to give professional users another option while continuing to deliver effective tar, oil and adhesive removal.
Is xylene hazardous?
Xylene requires appropriate handling and exposure controls. UK Government guidance identifies potential health effects from exposure, including irritation and symptoms such as headaches, dizziness and drowsiness. The risk depends on factors including the level, route and duration of exposure.
What does COSHH say about xylene?
COSHH requires employers to assess and control risks from hazardous substances. HSE guidance also recommends considering substitution with a substance that presents less risk where practicable.
Does xylene-free mean the product won’t contain solvents?
Not necessarily. “Xylene-free” specifically means the formulation does not use xylene. The replacement formulation may still contain other ingredients or solvents, so users should always read the latest product label and Safety Data Sheet (SDS) before use.
Will Nielsen’s Xylene-Free Tar & Glue Remover remove tar and glue?
The new product is being developed specifically to provide effective removal of tar, adhesive and oil residues. Full product performance, application guidance and technical information will be confirmed when the product launches.
When will Nielsen Xylene-Free Tar & Glue Remover be available?
The product is coming soon. Contact Nielsen Chemicals to register your interest and be among the first to receive availability information.
Is xylene-free chemistry safer?
Removing xylene from a formulation can address the specific exposure considerations associated with xylene, but “xylene-free” should not automatically be interpreted as “non-hazardous” or “risk-free”. Every chemical formulation needs to be assessed according to its own ingredients, hazards and intended use.
Where can I find more information about Nielsen Tar & Glue Remover?
Nielsen’s existing Tar & Glue Remover is a solvent-based product designed to remove tar spots, oil and adhesive residues, with applications across vehicle interiors and exteriors.







