Diethylene glycol is used as an antifreeze and an important component in brake fluids and lubricants. It serves as a humectant for tobacco, casein, synthetic sponges, and paper products. It is also found in cork compounds, bookbinding adhesives, varnish lacquers, and cosmetics. Additionally, diethylene glycol is employed in hydraulic seals for gas storage tanks, in the lubrication and finishing of textiles, as a solvent for vat dyes, and as a dehydrating agent for natural gas.