I have seen quite a few grumbles here and there regarding removal of cosmoline or other protectants from new tools. Some manufacturers recommend kerosene.
The last few times I have used full-strength Citrus Degreaser with a lot of success. These were citrus bike chain degreaser or full-strength Advanage (not Advantage) degreaser sold by fund raisers nation-wide. Just spread it over the table, rub it into thicker areas with fingertip pressure (rubber gloves if sensitive), let it sit for 10 minutes or so, wipe it off with a wad of paper towels. You might have to go over it again to remove spots and residue, then wipe with a damp rag and apply protectant. Advantages over kerosene:
- I think it works better
- Less messy
- Non-flammable
- Doesn't stink. In fact, it smells pretty good
- I have seen no signs of it going after paint like some petroleum-based solvents.
Thought this might be timely. We should be well into the Christmas-hint season.