The 15-gallon drum is the volume that does not get talked about enough in detailing supply. Too small for a high-volume car wash running through chemistry daily, but exactly right for a 3-5 bay detail shop or a busy mobile operation running 2-3 vans. At 15 gallons, you get meaningful per-ounce savings over 5-gallon pail purchasing, you reduce the frequency of product ordering, and you can run APC correctly on every job without rationing — without the handling challenge of a 30 or 55-gallon drum.
Citra Clean 15 Gallon is the right-sized bulk step for growing operations. Same citrus d-limonene chemistry as the larger drums, at the volume and handling format that makes practical sense for mid-size shops.
What Citra Clean Is
Citra Clean is a concentrated citrus all-purpose cleaner powered by d-limonene (natural citrus solvent) and surfactants. It dilutes for a wide range of cleaning applications — from light interior wipe-downs to heavy-duty engine degreasing — and is effective across wheels, carpet, vinyl, paint, trim, and engine surfaces. Biodegradable and lower-toxicity than petroleum-based degreasers.
Key Features and Why They Matter
- d-Limonene citrus chemistry — biodegradable citrus solvent cuts organic soils and grease effectively without harsh caustic chemistry. Performs on the full range of shop soils.
- Adjustable dilution — 4:1 to 10:1 for light maintenance; 1:1 for heavy-duty work. One drum covers the full cleaning range.
- 15-gallon manageable volume — significant per-ounce savings over 5-gallon pails, with a drum size that standard shop drum faucets handle and two people can manage safely.
- Multi-surface compatibility — interior and exterior surfaces at correct dilution. One product for the full shop cleaning workflow.
- Citrus fragrance — the natural d-limonene produces a clean scent that contributes to a professional, welcoming shop atmosphere.
What Citra Clean Is NOT For
Avoid full-strength use on uncoated raw aluminum surfaces and unprotected natural leather. Do not let product dry on any surface. For higher volume needs, the 30-gallon drum or the 55-gallon are available. For lower volume, smaller sizes in the Citra Clean line are stocked.
Who Uses the 15-Gallon Drum
Multi-bay detail shops that use 1-2 gallons of APC per week. Mobile detailing businesses with 2-3 vehicles needing a central supply that feeds their van spray bottle inventory. Fleet maintenance operations cleaning vehicles on a regular cycle. Any shop that has run the math and knows that the 5-gallon pail is a false economy at their volume level.
How to Use
- Install drum faucet: Fit a compatible drum faucet for controlled dispensing.
- Dilute to application: Maintenance cleaning at 6:1 to 10:1; general cleaning at 2:1 to 4:1; heavy degreasing at 1:1.
- Fill spray bottles or buckets: Dispense at correct dilution into labeled working containers.
- Apply, dwell, agitate, rinse: Standard APC application protocol per surface type.
- Store sealed: Keep drum bung sealed between uses. Store in a cool, covered area.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the 15-gallon size compare in price to the 30-gallon?
The 30-gallon drum offers a lower per-ounce cost. The 15-gallon is the right choice when volume justifies bulk purchasing but the 30-gallon represents more inventory than your operation turns through in a reasonable timeframe. Contact us for current per-gallon pricing on all drum sizes.
What drum faucet fits the 15-gallon drum?
Use a standard 2-inch drum faucet compatible with your drum’s bung size. See the 2-inch drum faucet available separately. Contact us to confirm bung compatibility before ordering.
Is the 15-gallon drum safe to handle without equipment?
A full 15-gallon drum weighs approximately 125-135 pounds. Two-person handling is recommended. Use proper drum-handling technique — dolly or drum cart for moving, never carry by hand.
What is the shelf life of Citra Clean in a sealed drum?
Properly sealed and stored in a cool, dry location, Citra Clean has a shelf life of 1-2 years. Once the bung is opened and a faucet installed, use within a reasonable timeframe and keep the drum sealed between dispensing sessions.
Does Citra Clean 15 Gallon ship by standard freight?
Yes — ships LTL freight. We handle freight arrangements. Contact us before ordering for lead time and shipping cost to your location.
