7 More Of The Most Useful Things You Can Do With Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol is one of those inexpensive household staples that most people already have on hand—but don’t use to its full potential. Beyond basic first aid, it’s a powerful cleaner, deodorizer, and problem-solver that can simplify your daily routine. With its quick-drying and disinfecting properties, it’s especially handy for tackling messes and freshening up hard-to-clean areas. Here are seven more smart and practical ways to put rubbing alcohol to work around your home.

Clean and Disinfect Your Phone

Your phone goes everywhere with you, which means it collects more germs than you might think. A small amount of rubbing alcohol on a soft cloth can safely wipe away fingerprints, oils, and bacteria. It evaporates quickly, so you don’t have to worry about moisture damage when used properly. Regular cleaning can help keep your device looking and feeling fresh.

Remove Sticky Residue

Leftover sticker residue from labels or price tags can be frustrating to deal with. Rubbing alcohol breaks down the adhesive, making it easy to wipe away without excessive scrubbing. Just apply a small amount, let it sit for a few seconds, and gently rub it off. It works on glass, plastic, and many other surfaces.

Freshen Up Shoes

Odor buildup in shoes is common, especially after long days or workouts. A light spritz of rubbing alcohol inside your shoes can help kill odor-causing bacteria. Because it dries quickly, it won’t leave your shoes damp for long. It’s a simple way to keep your footwear smelling cleaner between washes.

Clean Makeup Brushes

Makeup brushes can collect oils, product buildup, and bacteria over time. Rubbing alcohol offers a quick way to sanitize them between deeper cleans. Lightly mist or wipe the bristles and allow them to air dry completely before using again. Keeping brushes clean not only helps your skin but also improves makeup application.

Erase Permanent Marker Stains

Accidental marker stains on hard surfaces don’t have to be permanent. Rubbing alcohol can break down the ink, making it easy to wipe away. Apply a small amount to a cloth or cotton pad and gently rub the affected area. It’s especially effective on surfaces like whiteboards, countertops, and plastic.

Polish Stainless Steel

Fingerprints and smudges can quickly dull the look of stainless steel appliances. A quick wipe with rubbing alcohol helps remove streaks and restore shine. It dries without leaving residue, which makes surfaces look cleaner longer. This trick works especially well on refrigerators, faucets, and handles.

Deodorize Trash Cans

Trash cans can hold onto unpleasant odors even after they’ve been emptied. Wiping them down with rubbing alcohol helps kill odor-causing bacteria and leaves them smelling fresher. For best results, clean both the inside and outside surfaces. It’s an easy step that can make a big difference in keeping your kitchen smelling clean.

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