Theo Nash
Making your own disinfectant with alcohol is a great way to save money and protect your family and the planet. It can be made with simple ingredients such as alcohol, water, vinegar, and essential oils. The type of alcohol used is important, with isopropyl alcohol, vodka, and ethanol being common choices. The CDC recommends a minimum of 70% alcohol for effective surface disinfection, while others suggest 80% ABV or higher for optimal results. It's important to note that homemade disinfectants may not be suitable for all surfaces, and proper safety precautions, such as adequate ventilation, should be taken during preparation and use.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Alcohol Type | Isopropyl alcohol, ethanol alcohol, ethyl alcohol, or rubbing alcohol |
| Alcohol Concentration | At least 70% ABV, preferably 80%-90% ABV |
| Additional Ingredients | Water, vinegar, essential oils, etc. |
| Container | Glass or plastic spray bottle |
| Storage | Store in a cool, dark, and dry place, away from heat, sparks, and direct sunlight |
| Precautions | Keep away from eyes and skin. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use on marble, granite, leather, or wood. |
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![McKesson Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol 70% [1 Count] USP First Aid Antiseptic, 32 oz](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61lYiXl9g9L._AC_UY218_.jpg)
What You'll Learn
Distinguishing ethanol alcohols from acetone to maximise disinfectant yield
When preparing your own disinfectant with alcohol, it is important to distinguish between ethanol alcohols and acetone to maximise the yield of the desired product. Ethanol and acetone are both organic compounds with carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen atoms, but they have distinct chemical and physical properties that set them apart.
Firstly, let's understand the key differences between ethanol and acetone. Ethanol, also known as ethyl alcohol, grain alcohol, or drinking alcohol, is a simple alcohol with the chemical formula C2H6O. It has a –OH group bonded to a carbon chain, which is denoted as CH3−CH2−OH. Ethanol is a volatile, flammable liquid with a slight characteristic odour. On the other hand, acetone is a ketone with the chemical formula (CH3)2CO. It has a carbon atom double-bonded to an oxygen atom and two single bonds with two other carbon atoms. Acetone is also a volatile, flammable liquid, but it is colourless and has a pungent, irritating odour.
Now, let's discuss how to maximise the yield of ethanol alcohols for disinfectant preparation. The process of separating ethanol from acetone involves identifying the different sections of your alcohol run. The foreshots and heads, which make up the initial portion of the run, should not be consumed but can be used as strong cleaners and solvents. The last 35% of the run is made up of the tails, which can be collected and reused as a separate wash. The tails can be recognised by their oily film on the distillate, burnt taste, and smell. By separating the tails, you can maximise the middle portion, known as the hearts, which contain the ethanol alcohols suitable for disinfectant and hand sanitiser.
To further maximise the yield of disinfectant, it is essential to follow proper safety guidelines. Ethanol is generally safer to work with than acetone. Ingested ethanol can be processed better by the body, and skin contact with ethanol is better tolerated. Additionally, ethanol is less flammable than acetone, which evaporates more easily and can dissolve certain types of plastics. Always wear protective gear, such as nitrile gloves, and ensure proper ventilation when working with these substances.
By understanding the chemical differences between ethanol and acetone, and carefully separating the different fractions of your alcohol run, you can maximise the yield of ethanol alcohols for disinfectant preparation. Remember to prioritise safety and follow recommended recipes, such as those provided by the CDC, to ensure the effectiveness of your homemade disinfectant.
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Using isopropyl alcohol for disinfectant sprays
Isopropyl alcohol, also known as "rubbing alcohol", is a common ingredient in disinfectant sprays. It is effective at killing germs and viruses. According to the CDC, alcohol solutions of at least 70% alcohol (ethyl alcohol or isopropyl alcohol) are recommended for effective surface disinfection.
To make your own disinfectant spray, you can use 91% isopropyl alcohol (also known as rubbing alcohol) and dilute it with water. This will result in a disinfectant spray with an ABV of 80%.
- Combine 8 fluid ounces of 91% isopropyl alcohol with 1 fluid ounce of water in a clean spray bottle.
- Gently shake the bottle to mix the solution.
- Store the bottle away from sources of heat, sparks, or direct sunlight.
It is important to note that you should always measure your ingredients when making disinfectant sprays. If you dilute the solution too much, you will spread germs instead of killing them.
You can also use isopropyl alcohol for other cleaning purposes. For example, you can mix 1 pint of isopropyl alcohol with 1/2 cup of ammonia and 1/2 teaspoon of liquid dish detergent, and add enough water to make a gallon. Pour the solution into spray bottles and use it as a glass and window cleaner.
Always use isopropyl alcohol with care, as it may degrade some types of plastics, display surfaces, and enamels.
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Making disinfectant wipes with paper towels
Making disinfectant wipes using paper towels is a simple process. You will need a container to store your wipes in, paper towels, and a disinfectant solution.
First, select your container. It should be airtight to prevent the alcohol in your disinfectant solution from evaporating and drying out your wipes. A cylindrical plastic food storage tub with a lid works well, but you can also use a glass container like a wide-mouth jar or a plastic container with a lid. Ensure your container is large enough to hold 30–40 folded paper towels and around three cups of liquid.
Next, prepare your paper towels. If using a roll of paper towels, cut the roll widthwise into sections that will fit inside your container. If using individual paper towels, fold each one in half and then stack them on top of each other. You will need around 30–40 paper towels. Place the paper towels inside your container.
Now, make your disinfectant solution. For effective disinfection, your solution should contain at least 60% alcohol, with some sources recommending 70% alcohol. You can use isopropyl alcohol (also known as rubbing alcohol), ethanol (grain alcohol), or even vodka. Measure and pour the alcohol into a jar or canister, and add water. For example, you could use one cup of isopropyl alcohol and 1/3 cup of water, or one and a half cups of alcohol with three-quarters of a cup of water. You can also add essential oils, such as lavender and lemon, to your solution if desired.
Pour the disinfectant solution over the paper towels in the container. Wait until the liquid is absorbed, and then add more solution if needed until the paper towels are fully wet. There should be some liquid visible in the container. Cover the container tightly, and your disinfectant wipes are ready to use! Remember to keep the lid closed when not in use to prevent the wipes from drying out.
To use your disinfectant wipes, pull out a wipe and use it to wipe down hard, non-porous surfaces until the surface is visibly wet. Leave the surface wet for a few minutes to allow the alcohol to kill bacteria, and then let it air dry.
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Using ethyl alcohol for disinfectant sprays
Disinfectant sprays are a great way to keep your home, office, or workspace clean and sanitised. You can make your own disinfectant spray using ethyl alcohol, which is a safe and effective method to eliminate harmful germs, viruses, and bacteria. Here's a detailed guide on how to prepare and use ethyl alcohol for disinfectant sprays:
Choosing the Right Alcohol
It is important to select the right type of alcohol for your disinfectant spray. Ethyl alcohol, also known as ethanol, is a common choice for making disinfectant sprays. It is effective at killing germs and viruses. When purchasing ethyl alcohol, opt for food-grade ethanol with a high proof, such as 190 or 200 proof. This will ensure that your disinfectant spray is potent and safe to use.
Mixing the Solution
To make a disinfectant spray, you will need to mix the ethyl alcohol with water. The recommended ratio is to use 9 parts ethyl alcohol to 1 part water. This will result in a solution with an alcohol concentration of about 90%. It is crucial to measure the ingredients accurately to ensure the effectiveness of your disinfectant spray. If you dilute the alcohol too much, you may end up spreading germs instead of killing them.
Using a Spray Bottle
For easy application, pour the mixed solution into a clean spray bottle. Gently shake the bottle to ensure that the alcohol and water are well combined. Label the spray bottle clearly, indicating that it contains a disinfectant solution. Store the spray bottle away from heat, sparks, or direct sunlight to maintain its potency and safety.
Spraying and Wiping
When using your ethyl alcohol disinfectant spray, ensure that you follow a systematic approach. Spray the solution onto the surfaces you wish to disinfect, covering them evenly. Allow the spray to remain on the surface for a few minutes to ensure maximum effectiveness. Then, use a clean, dry cloth or paper towel to wipe the surface, removing any residual dirt or germs.
Precautions and Storage
Always exercise caution when handling ethyl alcohol. Keep it out of the reach of children and pets. Store your ethyl alcohol disinfectant spray in a cool, dry place, away from any potential sources of ignition. Additionally, be mindful of the type of surfaces you are disinfecting. While ethyl alcohol is safe for most surfaces, it may not be suitable for certain materials like stone, glass, or composite surfaces. Always test on a small area first if you are unsure.
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Ensuring proper storage and ventilation when using alcohol-based disinfectants
When preparing your disinfectant, it is important to keep in mind the proper storage and ventilation requirements for alcohol-based solutions. Alcohol is a flammable substance and should be handled with caution. Here are some key considerations:
- Well-Ventilated Areas: Alcohol-based disinfectants should be used and stored in well-ventilated spaces. This is crucial to prevent the buildup of flammable vapors and to ensure the safety of individuals in the vicinity.
- Limited to Small Surface Areas: Due to its flammable nature, the use of alcohol as a disinfectant should be limited to small surface areas. Avoid using it on large surfaces that may increase the risk of fire.
- Avoid Heat, Sparks, and Direct Sunlight: When storing alcohol-based disinfectants, keep them away from sources of heat, sparks, or direct sunlight. Heat can cause the alcohol to evaporate more quickly, increasing the risk of flammability.
- Cool and Dry Storage: Store your prepared alcohol disinfectant in a cool and dry place. A well-ventilated storage area helps maintain a consistent temperature and prevents the disinfectant from deteriorating.
- Separate from Other Chemicals: Keep alcohol-based disinfectants separate from other chemicals, especially those that may cause adverse reactions. For example, avoid storing them near acidic detergents or other substances that could cause dangerous chemical reactions.
- Proper Containers and Labeling: Use appropriate containers for storage, such as clearly labeled mason jars or plastic spray bottles. Ensure that the containers are made of materials compatible with the disinfectant solution.
- Regular Cleaning and Maintenance: Sanitize and clean your equipment and storage areas regularly. This helps prevent contamination and ensures the longevity of your disinfectant solution.
By following these guidelines, you can ensure the safe storage and use of alcohol-based disinfectants while minimizing the risks associated with their flammable nature. Proper ventilation and storage conditions are crucial to maintaining a safe and effective disinfectant solution.
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Frequently asked questions
You will need alcohol with a minimum ABV of 70% and water. You can also add essential oils to enhance the fragrance.
Combine 3/4 cup of water with 1 cup of alcohol in a spray bottle. Add 20 drops of essential oil for fragrance, if desired. Shake the bottle to ensure the liquids are well-mixed.
You can use 91% isopropyl alcohol or 100% ethyl alcohol. You can also use vodka or rubbing alcohol.
