What things can be cleaned with alcohol: unexpected options

Alcohol is an inexpensive, readily available and effective tool that will become a reliable cleaning assistant. The pharmacy liquid, which usually consists of 70% alcohol and 30% purified water, has strong antiseptic and disinfectant properties.

When using this natural cleaner, it is important to keep in mind some of the nuances. What things can be cleaned with alcohol and what it should never be mixed with, Beauty Homes and Gardens magazine has told.

Tips and warnings

1. Never mix alcohol with bleach. When combined, they form chloroform, which is toxic to humans if inhaled.
2. Never use alcohol near a fire as it is highly flammable.
3. Use alcohol in a well-ventilated area.
4. Keep alcohol out of the reach of children and pets.
5. It is advisable to test all life hacks on a small, inconspicuous area, even if the alcohol can be considered safe for that particular item.

Stainless steel

Alcohol can easily remove stains, stains, and fingerprints from stainless steel. Simply moisten a microfiber cloth with alcohol and wipe down your appliances or sinks. Your refrigerator, microwave, and dishwasher door can shine again in minutes.

Household appliances

Try pouring equal parts alcohol and water into a microwave-safe container and heating it for 1-2 minutes. Allow the liquid to cool slightly, moisten a microfiber cloth, and wipe the inside of the microwave oven.

Disinfect towels and sponges

There are many ways to clean and disinfect a kitchen sponge. But the best option is to soak it in alcohol weekly to extend its service life.

Protection against germs

Alcohol is an inexpensive and effective way to protect your home from germs, especially during cold and flu season. Wipe down countertops, doorknobs, light switches, and anything else you touch on a daily basis with a cloth dampened in alcohol. It's important not to dilute alcohol when using it as a disinfectant, as this will reduce its effectiveness. Avoid using it on quartz, wood, acrylic, and any painted or varnished material

Chandeliers and blinds

Cleaning a chandelier is a difficult task, and alcohol is the best way to do it. Fill a spray bottle with alcohol and water in a 1:4 ratio and then spray the liquid onto a soft cloth. Wearing protective gloves, wipe the individual parts of the chandelier thoroughly to remove dirt and dust. You can clean the blinds in the same way.

Upholstery and carpet

Spray the alcohol directly onto the stains, then use a light sponge or soft-bristled brush as soon as possible to scrub away the dirt. Experts recommend using a dry brush in a circular motion to re-fluff the fabric. Rubbing alcohol can also be used to remove stubborn, sticky items such as candle wax or tree sap, or greasy oil stains from the carpet. Do not use alcohol on wool, viscose, or silk as it will discolor the fibers.

Electronics

Alcohol is a powerful cleaner for cell phones, tablets, headphones, keyboards, and computer mice. Do not spray alcohol directly on the devices; it is better to disinfect them by moistening a lint-free cloth with the liquid and wiping it over the surfaces. Do not get alcohol into open ports or speakers. A cotton swab moistened with alcohol is a great way to clean the cracks between the keyboard.

Alcohol can also help remove adhesive residue from tape and stickers.

Jewelry and silver

Fill a bowl with alcohol and immerse your silver jewelry in it. Use a cloth, cotton swab, or clean toothbrush to gently rub off any remaining debris, and then briefly re-immerse the jewelry in the clean bowl of alcohol before allowing it to air dry. Please note that this approach should only be used for jewelry made of silver (including sterling and platinum), gold, and most gemstones. Costume jewelry, including plastic, copper, pearls, or opals, should not be cleaned with alcohol as it can corrode these materials.

Disinfecting skin care tools

Skin care tools, first aid supplies, and makeup brushes should also be disinfected with alcohol.

Air freshener

You can make an effective air freshener. In a spray bottle, mix three parts water, one part alcohol, and about 10-20 drops of your favorite essential oil. Shake thoroughly to blend the ingredients and your home fragrance is ready to use.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA told you why cat litter can be very useful in everyday life.

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