Isopropanol, also known as isopropyl alcohol or if you want to be very specific about the chemical nomenclature, propan-2-ol or 2-propanol, is a very important compound in many industries. It is used as a solvent, extraction solution and as a cleaning agent.
Paints, lacquers, inks, gums, resins, and cellulose processes require isopropanol as a solvent or extraction agent. It is also widely used in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries in the manufacture of body lotions, aftershave creams, and body gels. Furthermore, due to its inherent antimicrobial properties, it is also a common antiseptic and disinfectant in hospitals, laboratories, and other establishments with similar hygiene and sanitation requirements.
However, what might surprise you is that Isopropanol or Isopropyl alcohol has other uses besides its application in numerous industries. You may not even notice it, but you are already using Isopropyl in your daily routine in addition to the antiseptic, of course.
So, let’s discuss the not-so-common uses of isopropyl alcohol that you may or may not know about yet.
1. Ink Stain Removers: Many Although they claim to be permanent inks, they’re actually not as permanent as you might think. Simply dab a cotton ball with a generous amount of rubbing alcohol and the stain will be gone in no time. However, remember to blot the stain in one direction only to prevent it from spreading.
2. Oil Stain Remover: Yes, it’s not only effective at removing ink stains, but getting rid of tough, stubborn oil stains too! Soak a paper towel in rubbing alcohol and blot the stained area dry. Again, don’t rub as this can make the situation worse.
3. Printer Cartridge Cleaner: To keep your printer in good working order, you need to clean it regularly and the best way to do this is to use isopropyl alcohol. Using a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol, clean the printer cartridges. However, do not include the print head and nozzle plate.
4. Cleaner for your laptop: You can make your own cleaning solution by mixing one part isopropyl alcohol with one part water. Ammonia-based cleaners are prohibited because they leave a film. Also, please do not apply it directly on the surface of your laptop, but use a lint-free cloth and dampen it first before wiping and cleaning your laptop.
5. Cleaning agent for crystal chandeliers – Cleaning crystal chandeliers may not be as easy as it seems. You must be very careful to hand wash each individual crystal with a cleaning solution consisting of 25% isopropyl alcohol and 75% distilled water.
6. Cleaning agent for your sound system: To maintain good audio performance, you should clean the interconnect plugs with isopropyl alcohol and rub the connections well.
7. Swimmer’s Ear Remedy: If you’re planning a weekend at the beach, don’t forget to bring rubbing alcohol with you, especially if you’re someone who gets swimmer’s ears easily. One of the home remedies for swimmer’s ear is a 50-50 solution of isopropyl alcohol and white vinegar.
8. Bug spray: Mosquitoes are a nuisance, but having rubbing alcohol nearby and rubbing a good amount on bites can bring quick relief. Another thing you can do is mix rubbing alcohol, vegetable oil, and water. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and use it as an inexpensive yet effective insect repellant.
These are pretty unusual uses of common isopropyl alcohol and I bet you haven’t even thought about some of them. These are really great ideas to help you clean household items as well as provide alternative relief from bug bites and swimmer’s ear. So always make sure you have a bottle of isopropyl alcohol handy inside the house, you’ll never know when you’re going to need it.
