By Rubbing alcohol is inarguably one of the most underrated cleaning products in the world. The reason why the chemical is underrated might be linked to the fact that it’s not usually found in places where cleaning products are found. It’s often found in first aid equipment stores or pharmacy stores because rubbing alcohol primarily acts as an effective disinfectant for cuts and wounds. In this piece, we’ll be discussing the top nine rubbing alcohol cleaning hacks that you probably didn’t know before now. But before we start, let’s highlight what rubbing alcohol is because you’re definitely wondering that by now.
What is Rubbing Alcohol?
Rubbing alcohol typically refers to either ethanol or isopropyl alcohol-based liquids, with isopropyl alcohol products being the most widely available in the open market. So in case you’re wondering the best rubbing alcohol for cleaning, we recommend isopropyl alcohol, and this blog post is based on cleaning with isopropyl alcohol.
For the sake of this article, rubbing alcohol and isopropyl will be used interchangeably. Before we proceed to the rubbing alcohol cleaning hacks, we must point out some cautionary information you should know about the chemical. First, its fumes are powerful, so we advise you always use it in a well-ventilated area. Also note that both alcohol and its fumes are flammable, so you might want to keep it away from heat sources.
Lastly, do not swallow and keep out of reach of children. Unlike the name, this stuff isn’t something you should drink as alcohol.
Isopropyl alcohol has numerous uses when it comes to cleaning; however, we’re be highlighting our favorite top nine cleaning hacks.
Using Rubbing Alcohol as a Stainless Steel Cleaner
Rubbing alcohol can be used as your stainless steel cleaner. Simply add some of it to a soft, non-scratching cloth and wipe down your stainless steel appliances with it, going with the grain. Using rubbing alcohol for stainless steel is a great way to remove fingerprints, and it dries streak-free.
Natural Homemade Disinfectant
Many people ask, “Does rubbing alcohol disinfect?” Yes, it does; cleaning with isopropyl alcohol disinfects the surface at the same time. All you have to do is mix up one part of it to one part water in a spray bottle and use it to disinfect points of contact and other germ-infested areas. Additionally, you can use it directly on a cotton pad to clean your earring posts, thermometers, and other personal items.
Removes Hair Spray from Mirrors and Tiles
Hairspray sometimes stubbornly ends up on the bathroom mirror or walls after a quick spritz. To get rid of this unwanted hairspray buildup, dampen a cotton pad or cloth with rubbing alcohol and wipe away that sticky mess caused by the spray, with ease.
Used to Clean Sinks and Chrome
To clean a sink with rubbing alcohol, first clear out everything in it. Once you’re done, spray rubbing alcohol in the sink to not only clean and disinfect it, but to shine it up as well. Then use a dry cloth to add some finishing touches to the sink basin and chrome finishes.
Refresh Sponges and Cloths
We use our sponges and clothes every day without knowing what’s really going on behind the scenes. Viewing your sponge under the microscope can give you some insights, but that’s a story for another day. To disinfect and cleanse your sponge is crucial and easy. Thoroughly saturate your sponge or cloth with rubbing alcohol in a small bowl for 10 minutes. Rinse out completely, and you’ll have for yourself a good to go sponge or clothe.
Removing Ink and Permanent Marker Stains
Isopropyl alcohol can remove the dreaded permanent marker stains too. If your clothe or any material is stained by pen ink, gel ink, or any form of permanent ink, just soak the area with rubbing alcohol for a few minutes, then blot the stain up with a clean paper towel. Wash according to standard instructions and repeat if needed.
Used in Cleaning a Dry Erase Board
This rubbing alcohol cleaning hack comes in handy in schools and other places where whiteboards and markers are used. When you leave temporary marker prints on a whiteboard for too long, it becomes permanent marker prints. Instead of buying another board, you can simply spray rubbing alcohol on the board and easily wipe away the marks with a paper towel.
Disinfect Your Mouse and Keyboard
Rubbing alcohol can be used as both a disinfectant and a degreaser for electronic items, including mouse and keyboards, which are popularly known for accumulating germs and grease. Cleaning your mouse and keyboard with isopropyl alcohol dries immediately, so you don’t need to both about water damage.
Cleaning Microfiber Sofa Stains
Unlike water, which stains the microfiber when used for cleaning, rubbing alcohol won’t penetrate the fabric. It evaporates quickly, making it a stain-fighting ally for cleaning microfiber sofa stains. Just spray some rubbing alcohol over the stained area and wipe with a clean sponge or white cloth and allow it to dry. If the microfiber feels matted, brush the spot in a circular motion using a soft bristle brush.
In conclusion, the cleaning hacks involving the use of rubbing alcohol are many. The hacks listed here are our favorites, which we use often. If you need any form of residential, commercial, and industrial cleaning services in Lagos, Nigeria, you’re free to contact us to see how we can help you stay next to godliness.
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