Q&A for How to Clean with Rubbing Alcohol

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  • Question
    Can I use isopropyl alchohol to clean several dried black, slightly sticky small spots on my fabric couch?
    Brad Bane
    Community Answer
    Yes, it is safe. You can apply it with a toothbrush or a cotton ball.
  • Question
    How long should I leave rubbing alcohol on a hard surface to kill the coronavirus?
    DAVID NNYONDO
    Community Answer
    To kill the coronavirus, it is best to wipe the surface frequently with rubbing alcohol and let it air dry, as you can't predict when the virus might come into contact with the surface.
  • Question
    Should I wipe down a surface with water after cleaning it with rubbing alcohol?
    DAVID NNYONDO
    Community Answer
    No, you generally don't need to use water unless the area is flammable. Rubbing alcohol is effective on its own.
  • Question
    Can I use a fine mist of alcohol to disinfect both hard and soft surfaces?
    Trin Fenwick
    Community Answer
    Yes, spraying a fine mist of alcohol is an effective way to disinfect both hard and soft surfaces. Use isopropyl alcohol or ethanol with at least a 70% concentration to kill many viruses, bacteria, and fungi by penetrating and damaging their cells.
  • Question
    Can I use rubbing alcohol to disinfect furniture around my kids?
    DAVID NNYONDO
    Community Answer
    Yes, rubbing alcohol is not very hazardous after it dries, but make sure your kids don't touch the furniture while it's still wet.
  • Question
    Can I use rubbing alcohol to remove stains from a stone patio?
    Crystal Hafley
    Community Answer
    Rubbing alcohol can be effective for removing stains from a stone patio. Test it on a small area first to ensure it's safe. You can use it straight or dilute it with water (50/50 mix). Apply to the stain, let it sit, scrub if needed, and then rinse with water. Handle carefully as it's flammable and can be harsh on some surfaces.
  • Question
    Does a mixture of alcohol and water go bad if it gets warm?
    DAVID NNYONDO
    Community Answer
    The mixture doesn’t really go bad unless the alcohol is overly diluted. If it gets warm, it can still serve its purpose unless it is boiled.
  • Question
    Can I clean counters with rubbing alcohol, and should I dilute it?
    DAVID NNYONDO
    Community Answer
    You can dilute rubbing alcohol for general cleaning to save on product, but if the counters are exposed to bacteria and germs, it's best to use undiluted alcohol for effectiveness.
  • Question
    Can I use rubbing alcohol on brass kitchen cupboard handles?
    DAVID NNYONDO
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can, but it's better to use it diluted to around 70% for effectiveness. Rubbing alcohol generally doesn't have negative effects, and you can wipe the handles once or twice a week.
  • Question
    Can I use a 50/50 mixture of water and rubbing alcohol on my windshield with a protective plastic film to prevent icing?
    As Ok
    Community Answer
    To prevent icing, you can use a 50/50 mixture of water and rubbing alcohol due to alcohol's lower freezing point. However, check the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure the mixture won't damage your plastic film, as alcohol may not be compatible with all types. If unsure, test it on a small area or consider alternative de-icing methods like a frost guard cover, de-icer spray, or warming up your car.
  • Question
    Can I use 70% rubbing alcohol to clean a ceramic hob, and can I clean the outside casing of a microwave and toaster with it?
    Sangode Oloruntoba Kolade
    Community Answer
    Yes, 70% isopropyl alcohol is safe for cleaning these surfaces and can act as a disinfectant.
  • Question
    Can I use rubbing alcohol on a Q-tip to clean the oven igniter?
    Waste Free 23
    Community Answer
    Avoid using a Q-tip on the oven igniter as it can leave fibers and moisture. Instead, use a soft brush or compressed air to gently remove debris. Ensure the oven is off and disconnected. If problems persist, consult the manual or contact the manufacturer for guidance or professional assistance.
  • Question
    Can I use rubbing alcohol on car fabrics?
    DAVID NNYONDO
    Community Answer
    You can use rubbing alcohol on non-leather car seats. However, it can dry out moisture from genuine leather and may discolor, damage, or fade some fabrics, so exercise caution.
  • Question
    Is it okay to use rubbing alcohol on countertops?
    DAVID NNYONDO
    Community Answer
    It is effective because countertops are exposed to viruses and bacteria, and alcohol works as a disinfectant.
  • Question
    Can I dilute water and alcohol in a spray bottle for cleaning?
    DAVID NNYONDO
    Community Answer
    You can dilute alcohol with water in a spray bottle, adjusting the mixture based on the desired solution and level of effectiveness.
  • Question
    What can I add to isopropyl alcohol to make cleaners?
    DAVID NNYONDO
    Community Answer
    You can add water or vinegar for more effectiveness. Some people add essential oils for fragrance, depending on where you want to use it.
  • Question
    How do I dilute isopropyl alcohol to use as a spray?
    DAVID NNYONDO
    Community Answer
    Dilute it with water; you can add 30% water to isopropyl alcohol or use a 50% mixture depending on the effectiveness needed and the surface you are cleaning.
  • Question
    Should I dilute a 345ml bottle of antibacterial lotion with water or use it full strength to clean a velour lounge?
    As Ok
    Community Answer
    To clean a velour lounge, be cautious as velour is delicate. Check the antibacterial lotion label for dilution instructions. Test on a small area first, and consider diluting it to reduce strength. Use a soft cloth to gently dab and spot clean. Ensure proper drying, and consider consulting a professional for advice.
  • Question
    Can I use isopropyl rubbing alcohol to clean walls?
    Maverlie Carey
    Community Answer
    You can use isopropyl alcohol on some paints to clean walls, but it's generally not recommended for painted surfaces. If the paint is latex-based, it might come off with rubbing alcohol. However, using rubbing alcohol to clean walls before painting can be effective for prepping the surfaces.
  • Question
    Can I use rubbing alcohol to clean plastic vents in a car?
    Sangode Oloruntoba Kolade
    Community Answer
    Rubbing alcohol can help break down tough stains without damaging the plastic surface.
  • Question
    Can I spray rubbing alcohol to disinfect the cat litter after I clean the latest litter out?
    Community Answer
    Yes.
  • Question
    I have a fabric-covered stool that has been stained or just dirty. Can I dampen and clean with rubbing alcohol?
    Jeff
    Community Answer
    Rubbing alcohol might be a bit much. Try using a mild mixture of water and Dawn dishwashing liquid. If the stain is petroleum or paint, try Goo Gone.
  • Question
    How long should I wait before using bleach on a surface I used alcohol on?
    Bradley Jones
    Community Answer
    Alcohol usually evaporates quickly. As long as the alcohol is dry and there is proper ventilation, then you should be fine to use bleach.
  • Question
    Can I use rubbing alcohol to remove grime from the metal grills on my stove?
    Addison Smith
    Community Answer
    Yes, you can. Or, use a grill brush. If you use the alcohol, use a paper towel to wipe with.
  • Question
    Can I use rubbing alcohol to remove ice in my refrigerator?
    Addison Smith
    Community Answer
    Yes. You can but you can also just take a knife or spatula and scrape it off.
  • Question
    How do I clean my glass bowls used for smoking weed?
    Community Answer
    Start by placing a towel on the bottom of a pot, so they don't break. Then set the water to boil and let them sit for a few minutes. This will soften up all that gunk. Scoop them out with a ladle and set them aside until they cool enough to handle. Once they are cool enough, get a small Tupperware container (or similar, the softer plastic kind), half filled with alcohol. You can also use a thick Ziploc bag. Put the glass pieces in one at a time, and swish them around in the alcohol until most everything is clean. If need be, afterwards, you can wash them in hot soapy water (or place them in your dishwashers cutlery basket and run the wash) to get rid of any residue.
  • Question
    Can you use rubbing alcohol to make a bug spray to spray on clothing stored in closets?
    Stephanie Atilano
    Community Answer
    Yes, rubbing alcohol can repel certain insects. It is quite effective in killing insects too. By using alcohol around your home, you are discouraging bugs from flying, crawling about or nesting in your space. They will identify the smell of rubbing alcohol as a danger and will want to avoid it.
  • Question
    How to use rubbing alcohol, 99% to mix with water to do a cleaning? How many parts of water to mix?
    Sistah Karru
    Community Answer
    Add about 1/4 of water into your rubbing alcohol to get the best results.
  • Question
    If my phone has a screen protector on it, is it ok to clean with alcohol?
    Hitasha Kothari
    Community Answer
    Yes, it is fine to clean your screen with alcohol but make sure to dilute it before doing that, with water.
  • Question
    I have a bottle of 91% isopropyl alcohol. What are the proportions for mixing it with water to use as a disinfectant?
    Hitasha Kothari
    Community Answer
    Two parts of water by one part of absolute alcohol is recommended. However, do test it before using it as a disinfectant.
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