MCL Rumors, Regulations, and the Truth: What You Need to Know
Fear-mongering isn’t helping your business — facts will.
With all the recent headlines and social media buzz about methylene chloride (MCL), it’s no surprise that our customers are feeling confused, frustrated, and even a little panicked.
Let’s clear the air.
🚫 No, MCL Has Not Been Banned (Yet)
There’s been a lot of fear-based messaging flying around — some of it from competitors and others simply from misunderstanding. The reality is this:
✔️ MCL is still available
✔️ Benco still manufactures it — and we’re one of the few who still have reliable access to the raw materials
✔️ Nothing has changed for your shop… yet
That said, here’s where things stand as of now.
🗓️ EPA’s Proposed Ban Timeline Has Been Postponed
According to recent updates from the EPA and outlined in this article by Holland & Knight, the actual enforcement deadlines have been extended — giving your business more time to plan and operate without disruption.
General commercial use of MCL: Currently delayed until at least April 28, 2026
Furniture refinishing exemption: Extended until May 8, 2029
If the regulation moves forward in its current form, you’ll still have up to a year to use up inventory and phase out MCL products after the official ruling takes effect. So no — it doesn’t need to be out of your shop tomorrow.
🧪 Benco’s Been Ready for This
While MCL has long been the go-to for speed and strength, we’ve been manufacturing alternatives for 20+ years. Products like B96 have been quietly working in the background — proven, consistent, and effective without needing to be diluted or heated.
Why customers are switching to B96:
Room temperature application (no heating costs)
No dilution required (saves time and labor)
Low evaporation rate
Aggressive performance – strips powder coat, epoxies, and urethanes effectively
Available now and ready to ship
While pricing per gallon may be higher than MCL, B96 is still far more cost-effective than many “eco-friendly” alternatives on the market — without sacrificing performance.
✅ What You Can Do Now
Keep using MCL products legally and responsibly
Don’t fall for fear-based sales tactics
Start testing your Benco alternatives like B96 so you’re ready, regardless of what happens legislatively
Stay in the loop — we’ll keep you informed every step of the way
At Benco, we’re here to support you with facts, flexibility, and formulas that work. If you have questions about transitioning away from MCL — or just want to be prepared — give us a call.
Let’s move forward together, informed and ready.
📞 Contact us at (931) 484-9578 or email office@bencosales.com
🧪 Request a sample of B96 or other alternatives today