Top Facts About Isopropyl Alcohol: Uses, Safety, and Benefits in the UK

Isopropyl alcohol is one of the most widely used solvents and disinfectants in the UK. From hospitals to households, this simple chemical has become a reliable cleaning and sanitising solution. According to market reports, the demand for isopropyl alcohol in Europe grew by more than 12% in 2021, showing its importance in daily life. But what exactly makes isopropyl alcohol so popular? Let’s explore its benefits, uses, and safety measures in detail.

What Is Isopropyl Alcohol?

Isopropyl alcohol, also called isopropanol or IPA, is a colourless liquid with a strong odour. It is made by combining water and propene. It evaporates quickly, which makes it ideal for cleaning. The most common concentrations are 70% and 99%, each serving a specific purpose.

• 70% isopropyl alcohol – Best for disinfecting surfaces and killing germs.
• 99% isopropyl alcohol – Mainly used in industrial cleaning and electronics.

According to Dr. Simon Clarke, microbiology expert at the University of Reading, "Isopropyl alcohol remains one of the most effective and affordable disinfectants available."

Top Uses of Isopropyl Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol has a wide range of applications in homes, industries, and healthcare.

1. Medical and Healthcare Use

Hospitals and clinics in the UK rely heavily on isopropyl alcohol. It is used to clean wounds, sterilise equipment, and prepare skin before injections.

2. Household Cleaning

Isopropyl alcohol is a trusted cleaning agent for glass, mirrors, and tiles. It removes grease and fingerprints effectively without leaving streaks.

3. Electronics Cleaning

Because it evaporates fast, isopropyl alcohol is safe for cleaning keyboards, screens, and circuit boards.

4. Personal Care Products

Many hand sanitisers, aftershaves, and cleaning wipes contain isopropyl alcohol.

5. Industrial Applications

Factories use it as a solvent in paints, coatings, and inks. It also works as a fuel additive.

Why Do People Prefer Isopropyl Alcohol Over Other Cleaners?

• It kills 99.9% of bacteria and viruses.
• It dries quickly without leaving residue.
• It is affordable and widely available in the UK.
• It is safe for use on most non-porous surfaces.

According to Public Health England, alcohol-based solutions, especially isopropyl alcohol, are essential for infection control.

Isopropyl Alcohol vs Ethanol: Which Is Better?

Both isopropyl alcohol and ethanol are alcohol-based disinfectants. However, they have slight differences:

• Isopropyl alcohol is more effective on bacteria and viruses due to its fat-dissolving properties.
• Ethanol is commonly used in beverages, while isopropyl alcohol is strictly industrial and medical.
• Ethanol can be less irritating on skin, but isopropyl alcohol is stronger for surface cleaning.

For most cleaning purposes in the UK, 70% isopropyl alcohol is considered the best choice.

Safety Tips for Using Isopropyl Alcohol

Although useful, isopropyl alcohol must be handled carefully.

• Avoid open flames as it is highly flammable.
• Store in a cool, dry place out of children’s reach.
• Use gloves for prolonged cleaning tasks.
• Ensure proper ventilation when cleaning large areas.

According to NHS guidelines, direct use of isopropyl alcohol on open wounds should be avoided as it may damage skin cells.

Environmental Impact of Isopropyl Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol is biodegradable and breaks down into harmless compounds like carbon dioxide and water. However, improper disposal can contaminate water sources. Always dispose of large amounts following UK hazardous waste rules.

Where to Buy Isopropyl Alcohol in the UK

In the UK, isopropyl alcohol is available in pharmacies, supermarkets, and online stores. Popular online retailers such as Amazon UK and Boots stock 70% and 99% concentrations. Prices usually range from £5 to £20 depending on the volume and purity.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use isopropyl alcohol on skin? Yes, but only in diluted form like 70%. Avoid applying it on broken skin.

2. Does isopropyl alcohol kill COVID-19? Yes, WHO confirmed that 70% isopropyl alcohol effectively kills coronaviruses on surfaces.

3. Can I mix isopropyl alcohol with water? Yes, many solutions are diluted with water to make them safer and more effective.

4. Is isopropyl alcohol safe for electronics? Yes, it evaporates quickly and leaves no residue, making it perfect for electronics.

Conclusion

Isopropyl alcohol has become a household and industrial necessity in the UK. From cleaning and disinfection to industrial use, its role is undeniable. With the rising demand for hygiene, its importance will only grow stronger. As Dr. Clarke rightly said, isopropyl alcohol is both effective and accessible, making it the preferred disinfectant worldwide.