Alcohol wipes in a nutshell
Alcohol wipes are as versatile as they are useful for people who want to:
Ensure a consistent alcohol-to-water solution ratio
Quickly and easily clean surfaces
Promote germ-free environments
In many cases, alcohol wipes are commonly used to:
Sanitize hard surfaces
Remove fingerprints
Polish glassware
What are alcohol wipes made out of?
Many alcohol wipes are made from a polyester tear-resistant and lint-free polyester “fabric.” The wipe is then soaked in a solution of isopropyl alcohol and deionized water.
The higher the percentage on the alcohol wipe canister, the more alcohol there is in the solution. For example, 90% isopropyl alcohol wipes have more alcohol than 70% wipes.
However, 70% alcohol is more effective at killing pathogens than 90%. This is because the extra water in the solution helps slow down the chemical reaction. When this process is slowed down, alcohol can more thoroughly penetrate pathogens.
What is isopropyl alcohol (IPA)?
Isopropyl alcohol is a chemical compound that dissolves soils like:
Oils
Fingerprints
Flux residues
Carbon deposits
And more
Isopropyl alcohol is also known as IPA or CAS #67-63-0 and it has a wide variety of purposes and benefits. Since isopropyl alcohol acts as a solvent, it’s highly effective at degreasing and sanitizing surfaces.
However, it is important to note that alcohol is highly flammable. Individuals who choose to use alcohol wipes should store them safely away from lighters, candles, and other open flames.
What are alcohol wipes for?
There is a wide variety of alcohol-soaked wipe applications such as:
Cleaning fiber optics
Cleaning hard surfaces
Cleaning fusion splicers
Cleaning computer keyboards and mice
Cleaning display screens
And more
Cleaning contact surfaces
High-touch surfaces often collect bacteria, dirt, and germs. However, alcohol wipes can help reduce the amount of bacteria that collects over time.
Door handles
Coffee makers
Visitor badges
Writing utensils
Elevator buttons
Use alcohol wipes to coat such surfaces and reduce the risk of disease spread. They are particularly helpful when it comes to public places (e.g. grocery stores) as well.
Cleaning optical surfaces
Streaks, water marks, and fingerprints impact the appearance of optical surfaces (like eyeglasses). Many people use alcohol wipes to counteract this with other transparent surfaces like:
Glassware
Windows
Chemistry lab equipment
Mineral deposits in water can cause streaks on glass. This is one reason why many alcohol wipes are made with distilled or deionized water.
Cleaning printers and computer keyboards
Many high-touch office equipment develop residue build-up over time. Alcohol wipes help break down residue and prevent build-up in and on:
Thermal printers
Computer keyboards
Computer mice
Circuit boards
Phones
Tasks like printing shipping labels can also lead to residue. Use alcohol wipes often to prevent stubborn build-up from occurring.
Cleaning electronic devices
Lint, residue, and fingerprints can impact the way electronic devices look and operate. Keep devices free of residue by using alcohol wipes on:
Smartphones
Tablets
Computer accessories
Display screens
Smart watches
Always check device manuals before cleaning electronics with alcohol wipes.
Deodorizing household items
Because alcohol can kill odor-causing bacteria, they can deodorize common household items like:
Shoes
Gym bags
Exercise equipment
Alcohol wipes help eliminate strong odors to leave household items feeling fresh. Wipe down shoes and exercise equipment frequently to prevent odor build-up.
Cleaning jewelry
Jewelry collects dirt, bacteria, and residue especially with everyday use. Alcohol wipes help keep jewelry hygienic with regular cleaning.
Necklaces
Rings
Bracelets
Earrings
Pendants
Gently swab jewelry with a soft alcohol wipe to remove dirt and bacteria from worn jewelry. This not only prevents bacteria build-up but it may prolong the life of jewelry.
Cleaning oil, dust, and other contaminants
Alcohol wipes have many other general uses like:
Deodorant
Astringent
Liniment
Antiseptic
Disinfectant
Because alcohol is so versatile, it’s often used to clean:
Makeup brushes
Dry erase boards
Shoes
Sponges
Mirrors
Tile
Stainless steel
Sinks
Blinds
Chrome
Can you use alcohol wipes on cuts or to clean a wound?
Many people use alcohol wipes to disinfect bug bites or care for pierced ears. However, alcohol wipes can actually harm vulnerable tissue in the event of injury. The National Health Service (NHS) recommends the following to cleanse a minor injury.
Rinse the cut, scrape, or wound in running water for five to ten minutes
Soak gauze or cloth in water or saline solution
Gently dab the skin with the wipe
Gently pat dry with a clean towel or tissues
Apply a sterile dressing and apply pressure if necessary
NOTE: Seek medical attention in case of major injury or other medical emergencies.
Can you be allergic to alcohol wipes?
Some individuals may have an allergic reaction when they come in contact with rubbing alcohol or isopropyl alcohol wipes. Signs of an allergic reaction to alcohol include:
Hives
Difficulty breathing
Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
Symptoms may occur with rubbing alcohol or isopropyl alcohol. Always consult with a medical professional in the event of an allergic reaction. Although rare, anaphylaxis is a life-threatening and severe allergic reaction. Seek emergency care in the event of:
Loss of consciousness
Stopped breathing
Severe swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
Alcohol wipes offer a convenient way to sanitize and polish surfaces. Use them to remove fingerprints, residue build-up, and bacteria from high-touch areas. In many cases, alcohol wipes can also help reduce the risk of disease spread in public spaces.