DIY Uses for Isopropyl Alcohol: 20 Amazing Hacks for Home & More
Discover how to use isopropyl alcohol for cleaning, personal care, and DIY projects. Learn top tips and get high-quality IPA from HD Chemicals, a trusted UK supplier.
Isopropyl alcohol (IPA), also known as rubbing alcohol, is one of the most versatile household essentials. With powerful antibacterial properties and fast evaporation, it's a go-to solution for cleaning, disinfecting, and many DIY projects.
Whether you’re looking to remove stains, sanitise surfaces, or even create homemade beauty products, isopropyl alcohol is an affordable and effective solution. In this article, we’ll explore 20 clever DIY uses for isopropyl alcohol and where to buy high-quality IPA in the UK from trusted suppliers like HD Chemicals.
Why Isopropyl Alcohol is Essential for DIY Enthusiasts
Isopropyl alcohol has become an essential product for homeowners, crafters, and even car enthusiasts. Here’s why:
- Affordable & Readily Available – IPA is widely available and budget-friendly.
- Powerful Cleaning Agent – It effectively removes dirt, grease, and bacteria.
- Quick Drying – Unlike water, IPA evaporates rapidly, leaving no residue.
- Multipurpose Uses – From cleaning electronics to making DIY hand sanitiser, the possibilities are endless.
20 Practical DIY Uses for Isopropyl Alcohol
Household Cleaning
1. DIY Glass & Mirror Cleaner
Tired of streaky glass? Mix 1 part isopropyl alcohol with 1 part water in a spray bottle. Spray onto windows and mirrors, then wipe with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free shine.
2. Stainless Steel Polish
To remove fingerprints and smudges from stainless steel appliances, apply a small amount of IPA to a cloth and wipe the surface clean.
3. DIY Mould & Mildew Remover
Mix isopropyl alcohol with water (50:50 ratio) and spray on mouldy areas. Let it sit for 10 minutes before scrubbing.
4. Remove Sticky Residue
Got a price tag or sticker residue on your furniture? Apply IPA with a cotton pad and rub gently until the adhesive dissolves.
5. Carpet Stain Remover
Blot carpet stains with isopropyl alcohol and a clean cloth to lift tough marks like ink, wine, or coffee.
Personal Care & Beauty
6. DIY Hand Sanitiser
Create a simple hand sanitiser using:
- 2/3 cup isopropyl alcohol (70% or higher)
- 1/3 cup aloe vera gel
- A few drops of essential oil (for fragrance) Mix and store in a small bottle for on-the-go sanitising.
7. Make-Up Brush Cleaner
Soak your makeup brushes in a small bowl of isopropyl alcohol for 5 minutes. Rinse with water and let them dry.
8. DIY Aftershave
Mix isopropyl alcohol with witch hazel and aloe vera to create a cooling aftershave that soothes skin irritation.
9. DIY Deodorant Spray
Mix IPA with a few drops of tea tree oil and water. Spray underarms to kill odour-causing bacteria.
10. Disinfect Personal Grooming Tools
Use IPA to sanitise razors, tweezers, and nail clippers by soaking them for a few minutes.
Automotive Maintenance
11. DIY Windscreen De-Icer
Fill a spray bottle with IPA and spray on frozen car windows to melt ice instantly.
12. Remove Grease & Oil Stains
Isopropyl alcohol effectively dissolves grease and oil. Use it to clean car interiors and engine parts.
13. Disinfect Car Steering Wheel & Handles
Since steering wheels can carry bacteria, wipe them down with IPA for a quick disinfectant.
Electronics & Gadgets
14. Clean Keyboards & Phones
Dab IPA onto a microfiber cloth and wipe down keyboards, phone screens, and tablets.
15. Remove Thermal Paste from CPUs
If you're into PC building, use IPA to clean off old thermal paste before applying a fresh layer.
Arts & Crafts
16. DIY Alcohol Ink for Painting
Mix isopropyl alcohol with coloured sharpie ink or food colouring to create DIY alcohol inks for artistic projects.
17. Clean Paint Brushes
If your paintbrushes have dried acrylic paint, soak them in IPA to dissolve the paint.
Healthcare & First Aid
18. Homemade Disinfecting Wipes
Soak paper towels in a mixture of IPA and water for DIY disinfectant wipes.
19. Soothe Bug Bites
Apply IPA to bug bites to relieve itching and prevent infection.
20. Clean Minor Cuts & Scrapes
Use IPA to disinfect minor wounds before applying a bandage.
Where to Buy High-Quality Isopropyl Alcohol in the UK
For top-quality isopropyl alcohol in the UK, we recommend HD Chemicals. They offer high-purity IPA for DIY, cleaning, and industrial use. You can buy in bulk or smaller quantities depending on your needs.
Visit HD Chemicals’ website to place your order today and enjoy reliable delivery across the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What percentage of isopropyl alcohol is best for DIY cleaning?
For general cleaning, 70% IPA is ideal, as it contains enough water to break down bacteria effectively.
2. Can I use isopropyl alcohol on wood surfaces?
Yes, but use it sparingly as it can dry out wood finishes.
3. Is isopropyl alcohol safe for skin?
Yes, but avoid excessive use as it can dry out the skin.
4. Can I mix IPA with vinegar for cleaning?
Yes! Mixing equal parts of IPA and vinegar creates a powerful DIY cleaner.
5. Will isopropyl alcohol remove paint?
Yes, IPA can remove fresh paint and ink stains.
6. Can I use IPA to clean my TV screen?
Avoid using IPA directly on LED/OLED screens. Use a diluted solution on a microfiber cloth.
7. How do I store isopropyl alcohol safely?
Keep it in a sealed container, away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
8. Is isopropyl alcohol flammable?
Yes, keep it away from open flames.
9. Can I use IPA in my car’s fuel tank?
It can be used in small amounts to prevent water build-up in fuel lines.
10. Where can I buy bulk isopropyl alcohol in the UK?
You can purchase bulk IPA from HD Chemicals, a trusted UK supplier.
Final Thoughts
Isopropyl alcohol is a must-have for any DIY enthusiast. Whether you’re cleaning your home, making personal care products, or maintaining electronics, IPA offers countless practical benefits.
For premium-grade isopropyl alcohol in the UK, visit HD Chemicals and get started with your DIY projects today!