Isopropyl Alcohol (IPA) 99.9% pure is a fast-drying, residue-free solvent used to clean electronics, glass, metal and hard surfaces, and to wipe away oil, grime and germs. Because it evaporates quickly and leaves almost nothing behind, it is a favourite for delicate jobs where water would cause damage — like cleaning a laptop keyboard or a camera lens.
What Isopropyl Alcohol is used for
The Azlok IPA is a 1000mL bottle of high-purity isopropanol. That high purity is exactly why it works well on sensitive items: there are no additives or perfumes to leave streaks or residue. Common uses include:
- Electronics: cleaning circuit boards, connectors, phone screens, laptop keys and remote controls.
- Glass and mirrors: a streak-free wipe for spectacles, screens and windows.
- Surface disinfecting: counters, door handles, tables and tools.
- Adhesive and marker removal: lifting sticker residue, permanent marker and label glue.
- DIY and craft work: degreasing surfaces before painting, and popping air bubbles on freshly poured resin.
- Grease and oil removal: cleaning tools, sewing machines and bike parts.
How to use IPA correctly
Neat 99.9% IPA is best for electronics and quick-evaporating jobs. For general disinfecting, a slightly diluted solution actually works better because it stays wet on the surface a little longer.
- For disinfecting: dilute with distilled water to roughly 70% IPA (about 7 parts alcohol to 3 parts water). Wipe the surface and let it air dry.
- For electronics: use it neat. Power off and unplug the device first. Dampen a lint-free cloth or cotton bud — never pour alcohol directly onto components.
- For glass: spray lightly or apply to a microfibre cloth, then buff dry.
- For sticky residue: soak a cloth, hold it against the glue for a few seconds, then rub away.
Always test on a small hidden area first. IPA can dull or crack certain plastics, painted finishes and some screen coatings.
Safety notes you should not skip
Isopropyl alcohol is highly flammable and the fumes can build up quickly, so treat it with respect.
- Use it in a well-ventilated area and keep it away from flames, sparks, stoves and cigarettes.
- Do not ingest. IPA is toxic if swallowed and is for external and surface use only.
- Avoid prolonged skin contact — it dries the skin. Wear gloves for repeated cleaning and wash hands afterwards.
- Keep away from the eyes; rinse thoroughly with water if it splashes.
- Store out of reach of children and pets.
- Do not mix it with bleach or other cleaners, as this can release harmful fumes.
Buying and storage tips
For most household and hobby uses, the 1000mL bottle covers a lot of cleaning. Check the purity on the label — the 99.9% grade from Azlok is ideal when you need a clean, residue-free result on electronics and glass. Keep these storage points in mind:
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat.
- Keep the cap tightly closed — IPA evaporates fast and also absorbs moisture from the air, which slowly lowers its strength.
- Decant into a small labelled spray or squeeze bottle for daily use, and keep the main bottle sealed.
- Never store it near a kitchen flame or water heater.
A little goes a long way, so buy what you will realistically use within a reasonable time rather than stockpiling a flammable liquid at home.
FAQ
Can I use 99.9% IPA to clean my phone and laptop?
Yes. Power off the device, unplug it, and apply the alcohol to a lint-free cloth or cotton bud rather than the device itself. Its fast evaporation makes it safe for most screens and keyboards, but test a corner first as some coatings are sensitive.
Should I dilute IPA for disinfecting?
For disinfecting surfaces, a 70% solution (diluted with distilled water) is generally more effective because it evaporates a little slower and stays in contact longer. Use it neat only when you need very fast drying, such as on electronics.
Is Isopropyl Alcohol safe on skin?
Occasional use is fine, but it dries and can irritate skin with repeated contact. It is not a moisturiser or a substitute for skincare. Never drink it and keep it away from your eyes.
How should I store the bottle?
Keep it tightly capped in a cool, dark, well-ventilated spot, away from flames and out of reach of children. A sealed cap also stops it losing strength through evaporation.
Will it damage plastics or paint?
It can. Strong IPA may cloud some plastics or lift certain painted and printed finishes, so always spot-test on a hidden area before cleaning the whole surface.