The present invention is drawn toward compositions and methods of using same, the compositions comprising (in diluted form): a) an effective amount of a phenyl substituted alkyl alcohol having a water solubility of at least 0.1 weight percent (preferably benzyl alcohol); b) a coupler; and c) water, wherein the amount of the coupler is at least 3.0 times the amount necessary to completely solubilize the phenyl substituted alkyl alcohol in the water. Preferred couplers are the salt of a monofunctional water-soluble amine and an organic acid comprising at least one water-insoluble organic acid having from 6-10 carbon atoms. Methods of removing coatings such as standard urethane/acrylic sealer finishes from floors using the inventive compositions are also described.
