What are alcohol wipes used for? Uses and benefits for cleaning

You are wondering: “What are alcohol wipes used for? Alcohol wipes or Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) wipes are typically used for cleaning and disinfecting many high-touch surfaces such as fingerprints, knockdoors,… In some cases, they can help reduce the risk of disease due to the spread of bacteria and viruses. In this article, DHTI – A wet wipes factory will discover what they can do and their applications. 

Learn more: Wet wipes – Top-rated brands & How to choose the right one

1. General information about alcohol wipes

Before finding the answer to the question: “What are alcohol wipes used for?” we first need to know what they are made out of. Because each ingredient in alcohol wipes (wet tissue alcohol) can affect their uses and effectiveness. 

Alcohol wipes, sometimes known as alcohol pads, are small, single-use cloths soaked in a solution of alcohol (isopropyl or ethyl alcohol, with different concentrations depending on the wet tissue manufacturer. They can be used to disinfect surfaces and objects in your home or healthcare setting, helping to reduce the risk of spreading germs and potentially harmful bacterial and viral infections. Especially since Covid-19, alcohol wipes have been consumed more than ever due to their antibacterial and antiseptic properties.

See now: Are antibacterial wipes safe? | How to use them correctly?

2. What are alcohol wipes made of?

Many alcohol wet wipes are made from polyester fabric and soaked in a solution of purfied water and isopropyl alcohol. In particular, the higher concentration of alcohol, the more these wipes are effective in cleaning. For instance, 80% isopropyl alcohol wipes have more alcohol than 70% wipes.

Also, according to the CDC and FDA recommendations, alcohol-based hygiene products such as hand sanitizer and wet wipes should contain a concentration of at least 60% ethanol (ethyl alcohol) or isopropyl alcohol by volume. This is because this concentration will effectively kill bacteria and viruses, enabling you to reduce the disease and spread of germs around.

Read more: 9 harmful ingredients in wet wipes & Label reading guide (latest updated)

3. What is Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA)?

Isopropyl Alcohol (known as IPA or CAS #67-63-0, IPA, isopropanol and 2-propanol) is a chemical ingredient that can dissolve many kinds of soils like light oils, fingerprints, flux residues, carbon deposits, etc. It functions as a solvent and effective in cleaning and sanitizing surfaces. But, remember that alcohol are flammable so that when using alcohol wipes or isopropyl alcohol wipes, you should stay away them from candles, lighters, and other open flames.

Find out more:

• Do wet wipes have alcohol? Is it safe to use? [Update 2023]
• Alcohol Wet Wipes Manufacturer: High-Quality, Trusted Products

4. What are alcohol wipes used for?

What do you use alcohol wipes for? Thanks to their superior antibacterial properties, alcohol wipes are widely used:

• Disinfect hands and feet after activities or contact with easily contaminated surfaces such as doorknobs, stairs, phones, etc.
• Hygiene-contaminated surfaces around the home.
• Used to wipe hands or to clean in restaurants or on long-distance passenger cars – public environments are easy for bacteria to penetrate and grow.

Cleaning the contact surfaces:

High-touch surfaces are ideal environments for bacteria, viruses, and fungi to grow and spread rapidly. Therefore, alcohol wipes will reduce and prevent the growth of bacteria on these surfaces:

• Door handles.
• Coffee makers.
• Visitor badges.
• Writing utensils.
• Elevator buttons.

Cleaning keyboards or printers:

Many high-touch office equipment develops residue over time if they aren’t hygienic frequently. Alcohol wipes come in contact with this equipment, help break down residue quickly and prevent build-up:

• Thermal printers.
• Computer keyboards.
• Computer mice.
• Circuit boards.
• Phones.

Find out: Can I use alcohol wipes to clean my phone? How to use them

5. Can alcohol wipes be used on cuts or to clean the wound?

Alcohol wipes should not be used on broken skin or to clean wounds, as the way they work to kill bacteria or viruses can damage delicate tissues and burn healthy cells. The National Health Service (NHS) suggests the following to cleanse a minor injury: 

• Rinse the cut, scrape, or wound for five to ten minutes in running water.
• Soak gauze or fabric in water or salt water.
• Gently apply the wipe to the skin.
• Utilize a clean towel or tissues to pat dry gently.
• If necessary, apply a sterile dressing and apply pressure.

Read more: 

• The Leading Body Wipes Manufacturer Serving in the US – DHTI
• DHTI – A Top-notch Makeup Remover Wipes Manufacturer

6. Can you be allergic to alcohol wipes?

Can alcohol wipes be used on skin? or Can alcohol wipes cause allergies? Can you clean your face with alcohol wipes,…. If you are curious about these things, the answer is it depends on each situation. In fact, an allergic reaction may occur due to using alcohol wipes. Signs of allergic reaction to alcohol include

• Rash.
• Difficulty of breathing.
• Swelling of the tongue, face or throat.

Although anaphylaxis rarely happens, it is a life-threatening and severe allergic reaction. Call emergency care in the event of

• Loss of consciousness.
• Stopped breathing.
• Severe swelling of the face, tongue, or throat.

Note: Although alcohol wipes are an excellent solution to kill bacteria and viruses and prevent the spread of germs, you are aware that their antibacterial properties can damage vulnerable skin or wounds. In some cases, alcohol in these wipes can trigger skin irritation. Therefore, always consult with a medical professional in the event of an allergic reaction.

Hopefully, you have answered the question: “What are alcohol wipes used for?” As aforementioned, these wipes are beneficial for cleansing many surfaces and protect us from the growth and spread of bacteria. However, you must use it carefully, especially for skin and wounds, as they can run a high risk of allergic reactions and adverse problems. If you have any questions or concerns, please get in touch with us for support.

Dong Hiep Trading and Investment Joint Stock Company:

• Representative office: 69B Thuy Khue, Thuy Khue Ward, Tay Ho District, Hanoi City
• Factory address: Lot CN7, Tu Liem Industrial Cluster, Minh Khai Ward, Bac Tu Liem District, Hanoi
• Hotline: (84-24).3716.0270.
• Website: https://dhti.vn/en/

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