Alcohol might be a strong enough lubricant to soften some types of lacquer, however when it will, it’ll do so slowly. A swipe across your lacquered table with alcohol won’t damage the finish, however rubbing with alcohol might. It’s best to check a small area.
Many Lacquers Resist Alcohol
By itself, alcohol dissipates shellac, but maybe not most lacquers, including nitrocellulose, acrylic, waterborne and two-part forms that are catalytic. Some types of alcohol, such as methanol, might be a component in certain brands of lacquer thinner, but it’s generally added to reduce cost. Denatured and isopropyl alcohols are grease cutters that are great, and using either one to clean a lacquered surface is probably safe. Do not allow the alcohol spat onto the surface, or it could leave a stain. Additionally, avoid using it to rub issue spots off — mineral spirits is much safer for that.