What is 2-methoxyethanol (CAS 109-86-4)? Safety, Regulation & EU/US/Canada Perspective

Sources: REACH SVHC Candidate List — European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) · last fetched 2026-06-11

2-methoxyethanol, also known as methyl cellosolve, is a chemical substance with the CAS number 109-86-4. It is a colorless, volatile liquid with a mild, sweet odor. This substance is used in a variety of applications, including as a solvent in paints, coatings, and inks, as well as in the production of other chemicals. 2-methoxyethanol is also used in some consumer products, such as cosmetics and cleaning agents.

What 2-methoxyethanol is

2-methoxyethanol is a glycol ether, a class of solvents that are commonly used in industrial and commercial applications. It is a relatively simple molecule, consisting of a methoxy group attached to an ethylene glycol molecule. This substance is highly soluble in water and has a relatively low boiling point, making it useful as a solvent in a variety of applications.

Why regulators track it

Regulators track 2-methoxyethanol because of concerns about its potential impact on human health and the environment. This substance has been shown to be toxic to humans and animals, and it has been linked to a range of health problems, including reproductive and developmental issues. As a result, regulators such as the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and Health Canada have established guidelines and regulations for the use of 2-methoxyethanol.

European Union perspective

In the European Union, 2-methoxyethanol is listed on the REACH SVHC Candidate List by the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA). This means that manufacturers and importers of this substance are required to notify ECHA and provide information about its use and safe handling. Substances on the SVHC Candidate List may later be moved to Annex XIV, which would require authorization for their use. The reason for this regulatory tracking is to ensure that the risks associated with 2-methoxyethanol are properly managed and minimized.

United States perspective

In the United States, 2-methoxyethanol is regulated by the EPA under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). The EPA has established guidelines for the safe use of this substance, including recommendations for exposure limits and personal protective equipment. Additionally, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has established permissible exposure limits for 2-methoxyethanol in the workplace.

Canada perspective

In Canada, 2-methoxyethanol is regulated by Health Canada and the Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). Health Canada has established guidelines for the safe use of this substance, including recommendations for exposure limits and personal protective equipment. The ECCC has also established regulations for the environmental release of 2-methoxyethanol, including requirements for reporting and record-keeping.

Where it shows up in consumer products

2-methoxyethanol can be found in a variety of consumer products, including cosmetics, cleaning agents, and paints. It is often used as a solvent or additive in these products, and it may be listed on the label as "methyl cellosolve" or "2-methoxyethanol". Consumers who are concerned about exposure to this substance can check the labels of products they use and look for alternative products that do not contain 2-methoxyethanol.

If you think you have been exposed

If you think you have been exposed to 2-methoxyethanol, it is recommended that you consult a doctor, occupational-health specialist, or poison-control centre for advice. These professionals can provide guidance on how to manage exposure and minimize any potential health risks. It is also recommended that you verify the information on the primary register of the relevant regulator, such as the ECHA or EPA, to get the most up-to-date information on the safe use and handling of 2-methoxyethanol. Do not attempt to diagnose or treat any potential health problems on your own, as this can lead to further harm.

• For more information, please visit the ECHA website or the EPA website to learn more about 2-methoxyethanol and its regulation.
• It is also recommended that you check the labels of products you use and look for alternative products that do not contain 2-methoxyethanol.
• Remember to always follow the recommended safety precautions when handling any chemical substance, including 2-methoxyethanol.

Verify on the primary regulator's register

• European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) — REACH SVHC Candidate List →
• CAS Common Chemistry — CAS 109-86-4 →
• ECHA chemical search (CAS 109-86-4) →

If you have an exposure concern

If you suspect acute exposure, contact your poison-control centre. For long-term concerns, speak with a occupational-health physician or your family doctor. ProductGuru does not provide medical advice.

• US National Poison Control (1-800-222-1222) →
• EU national poison centres (ECHA directory) →
• Canada provincial poison centres (CAPCC) →

Same substance, other languages

• Deutsch →
• Français →

Disclaimer. This page indexes publicly-published regulatory data from ECHA, IARC, OEHHA, the Stockholm Convention Secretariat, and the European Commission. It is NOT medical, dietary, or legal advice and NOT a recommendation. Regulations change — verify each claim directly with the linked primary source before acting on it. No warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose is made or implied. Affiliate disclosure (US FTC §255): some pages on this site contain eBay Partner Network links; we earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. For acute exposure concerns, contact a poison-control centre. For personal health concerns, consult a licensed medical professional.

This page is part of ProductGuru — an index of public regulatory data on chemical substances. It is not medical, dietary, or legal advice and is not a recommendation. Verify every fact at the linked primary regulator before acting on it. Affiliate disclosure (US FTC §255): pages on this site may carry eBay Partner Network links; we earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.