Isopropanol, also known as isopropyl alcohol or if you want to be very specific about 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 extracting agent. It is also widely used in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries in the manufacture of body lotions, aftershave creams, and body massages. 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 have other uses besides their 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 rubbing alcohol that you may or may not know about.
1. Ink Stain Remover – Although many claim to be permanent inks, they are not actually as permanent as you might think. Just dab a cotton ball with a generous amount of rubbing alcohol and the stain will come out immediately. Remember, however, to blot the stain in only one direction to prevent it from spreading.
2. Oil Stain Remover: Yes, it is not only effective at removing ink stains, but also at removing stubborn and stubborn oil stains. Soak a paper towel in rubbing alcohol and blot the stained area. Again, do not rub, as this could make the situation worse.
3. Printer Cartridge Cleaner – To keep your printer in good working order, you should clean it regularly, and the best way to do this is to use isopropyl alcohol. Using a cotton swab dipped in 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 a no-no because they leave behind a film. Also, do not apply it directly to the surface of your laptop, rather, use a lint-free cloth and dampen it first before cleaning and cleaning your laptop.
5. Crystal Chandelier Cleaning Agent – Cleaning crystal chandeliers may not be as easy as it sounds. Be very careful and 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 your interconnect plugs with isopropyl alcohol and clean your connections well.
7. Remedy for swimmer’s ear: if you plan a weekend at the beach, don’t forget to bring rubbing alcohol, especially if you are one of those people who easily get swimmer’s ears. One of the home remedies for swimmer’s ear is a 50-50 solution of isopropyl alcohol and white vinegar.
8. Bug Repellent – Mosquitoes are a nuisance, but having rubbing alcohol nearby and rubbing a good amount on the bites can provide 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 but effective insect repellent.
These are pretty unusual uses for regular rubbing 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. Therefore, always make sure you have a bottle of rubbing alcohol on hand inside the house, you will never know when you will need it.