Further details: Phenoxyethanol is stable up to 85°C (185°F)and is soluble in most oils. It is also soluble in water from 0.5 to 2.67 grams per 100 grams of water. It is miscible with propylene glycol and glycerin. Phenoxyethanol is inactivited by highly ethoxylated compounds including polysorbates so do not use with surfactants. In surfactant solution systems, the water must be saturated with phenoxyethanol for activity. If the level is too low, it acts as a nutrient for bacteria. However, it can cause viscosity issues in detergent products, Phenoxyethanol is slightly volatile so it will protect the “head space” or vacant air space above the product in the bottle.