Can Rubbing Alcohol Ruin Clothes?
Rubbing alcohol is a popular solution for many household cleaning and disinfecting tasks, but is it safe to use on clothes? Knowing the possible effects that rubbing alcohol can have on fabrics can help you determine whether or not you should use it in your laundry routine.
What Does Rubbing Alcohol Do?
Rubbing alcohol, also known as isopropyl alcohol, is used as a disinfectant and is a common ingredient in many cleaning products. It evaporates quickly, making it a perfect cleaning solution for glass, counters, and surfaces. It is also useful for pre-treating and disinfecting laundry.
Can Rubbing Alcohol Ruin Clothes?
When used properly, rubbing alcohol is a safe and effective way to pre-treat stains and tackle odors. However, it is important to exercise caution when using rubbing alcohol on fabrics. The alcohol can damage delicate fabrics, such as silk or wool, and can shrink or discolor certain materials.
Using Rubbing Alcohol Safely on Clothes
Test on an inconspicuous area first: Before you pre-treat a stain with rubbing alcohol, perform a patch test to make sure it won’t damage the fabric. Apply a few drops to a hidden area and wait a few minutes. If the fabric appears to be unharmed, proceed with using the rubbing alcohol.
Dilute: Use a 50-50 mixture of rubbing alcohol and water for pre-treating stains. This will help to prevent any damage to the fabric.
Spot treat: Rubbing alcohol should only be used to pre-treat specific stains. Do not use rubbing alcohol on an entire garment, as this can cause shrinkage and discoloration.
Tips for Using Rubbing Alcohol on Clothes:
- Always check the care label first, since some fabrics—such as silk or wool—should never be cleaned with rubbing alcohol.
- Perform a patch test before pre-treating any stains.
- Dilute rubbing alcohol with water before using it on clothes.
- Spot treat the affected area, avoid saturating the entire garment.
- Allow the fabric to dry completely before laundering.
In conclusion, rubbing alcohol can be used safely to pre-treat certain stains in clothing, but caution and care should be taken to ensure that the fabric is not damaged. If you’re unsure whether or not to use rubbing alcohol on a garment, consult the care label and speak to a professional cleaner.