Spraying Alcohol On Wool: Safe Or Not?

Wool is naturally antibacterial and antimicrobial, but it can still get dirty. While some people recommend using alcohol to clean wool, others advise against it, as alcohol can weaken the structure of the fabric and make it more prone to bacteria. Vodka is a popular alternative to isopropyl alcohol, as it is a natural deodorizer that can eliminate odours without leaving stains or residue. However, it is important to note that spraying alcohol or vodka on clothes does not disinfect them. Instead, the alcohol binds to the sweat and odour-causing bacteria and then evaporates, taking the smell with it.

Is it safe to spray alcohol on a wool sweater?

Vodka vs. isopropyl alcohol

Vodka and isopropyl alcohol are both used for cleaning and disinfecting purposes. Vodka is produced from starchy or sugary products like potatoes, fruits, or sugars, and it contains about 40% alcohol. Isopropyl alcohol, on the other hand, is chemically known as isopropanol and has a higher alcohol concentration of around 70-91%.

When it comes to cleaning fabrics, vodka is often used as a natural deodorizer and disinfectant. The alcohol in vodka breaks down and neutralizes unpleasant smells, eliminating odour-causing bacteria. Vodka is also used to deodorize and disinfect costumes and clothing that cannot be washed or are dry-clean only. It dries quickly without leaving any residue or stains, making it a popular choice for wardrobe professionals in the theatre and entertainment industry. Additionally, vodka is generally safer for use on most fabrics compared to isopropyl alcohol, as the higher concentration of alcohol in isopropyl can be more aggressive on delicate or synthetic materials.

However, isopropyl alcohol has its advantages too. It is often used for cleaning and disinfecting purposes because it is non-conductive and evaporates quickly. Its high concentration of alcohol also makes it more effective in breaking down certain types of build-up, such as paste on PC parts. Isopropyl alcohol is also generally cheaper than vodka, making it a cost-effective choice for cleaning.

In the case of wool sweaters, both vodka and isopropyl alcohol have been suggested as potential cleaning agents. Some people recommend using undiluted vodka or a vodka-water spray on wool sweaters to eliminate odours and kill bacteria. However, others caution against using isopropyl alcohol on wool because it can act as a wax remover, potentially eating away at the natural waxy coating of wool fibres and making them more prone to bacteria.

Overall, when deciding between vodka and isopropyl alcohol for cleaning, it is important to consider the specific cleaning needs and the type of fabric or surface being cleaned. While vodka is generally safer for most fabrics, isopropyl alcohol may be preferred for its stronger disinfecting properties and quicker evaporation in certain applications. It is always advisable to spot-test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area before applying it to the entire surface or garment.

Wool's natural antibacterial properties

Wool is believed to have natural antibacterial properties due to its ability to reduce the build-up of odours. This is because the complex wool fibre, composed of an epicuticle, lipid monolayer, and cortex, has an antibacterial effect. The thin waxy coating of wool fibres contains fatty acids that inhibit the growth of mould, mildew, and bacteria. The same coating also repels water, which can cause mildew and mould to grow. This means that woollen items do not need to be washed regularly and will smell fresh even after repeated use, unlike synthetic fibres.

The scaly surface area of the fibre acts to block dirt and stains from being absorbed. Instead, particles sit on top, making them easier to remove. Wool is also naturally anti-microbial and has natural UV protection, with a protection factor of up to 30+.

While wool has natural antibacterial properties, it is important to note that it is not completely immune to bacteria. Bacteria will grow on wool if there is something for it to feed on. Wool is oleophobic, meaning it repels body oils. As a result, skin oils do not get absorbed into the wool and become rancid and smelly. Instead, they break down and fall off or stay on the skin, making it easier to remove them by washing your skin.

Effectiveness of alcohol in removing odours

Wool is naturally antibacterial and antimicrobial. It is also breathable and does not absorb oils and sweat well. Therefore, it does not collect mouldy sweat, which can lead to odours. However, wool can still accumulate excessive oils, sweat, and food debris, which can result in unwanted smells.

Alcohol is an effective deodoriser that can be used to eliminate odours on wool. The alcohol penetrates the fabric, breaking down and neutralising unpleasant smells and killing odour-causing bacteria. The effectiveness of alcohol as a deodoriser depends on its concentration. Rubbing alcohol typically contains a higher concentration of alcohol (70-91%) compared to vodka (40%). This higher concentration makes rubbing alcohol more effective at killing bacteria and breaking down odours. However, it can also be more aggressive on fabrics, especially delicate or synthetic materials. Vodka, on the other hand, is a safer choice for most fabrics and is less likely to cause damage.

When using alcohol to remove odours from wool, it is important to consider the type of alcohol and its concentration. Isopropyl alcohol, for example, can be used as a wax remover and may eat away at the natural waxy coating of wool fibres, making them more prone to bacteria. Therefore, it is recommended to use diluted alcohol or vodka on wool to avoid potential damage. Adding a few drops of essential oil, such as lavender, tea tree, or peppermint, can also enhance the odour-fighting properties of the solution.

Additionally, it is important to test the alcohol solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying it to the entire garment. This will help ensure that the alcohol does not cause any discolouration or damage to the wool. It is also recommended to allow the wool to air dry in a well-ventilated area after applying the alcohol solution to prevent the smell of alcohol from lingering.

Overall, alcohol can be an effective way to remove odours from wool, but it is important to use the appropriate type and concentration of alcohol and to test it on a small area first to avoid any potential damage to the fabric.

Dilution of alcohol

Wool is naturally antibacterial and antimicrobial, so it does not easily collect mouldy sweat or smells. However, wool garments can become soiled by excessive oils, sweat, and food debris. To clean wool clothing, some people opt for dry cleaning, steaming, or hanging outside on a coat hanger for an hour.

Some people use alcohol to clean their wool clothing. Isopropyl alcohol, for example, can be used as a disinfectant and stain remover. However, isopropyl alcohol can be too harsh on wool because it can eat away at the waxy coating of wool fibres, making the fabric more prone to bacteria. For this reason, it is recommended to dilute alcohol before spraying it on wool. Vodka, for example, typically contains around 40% alcohol, which is a safer choice for use on most fabrics. Vodka can be mixed with water to create a deodorizing spray for wool clothing. The alcohol in the vodka works as a natural deodorizer, breaking down and neutralizing unpleasant smells.

When diluting alcohol, it is important to consider the concentration of alcohol needed to effectively kill bacteria. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends an alcohol concentration of between 60% and 90% for disinfection purposes. At concentrations greater than 60%, alcohol can effectively kill bacteria on surfaces. However, higher concentrations of alcohol can be more aggressive on some fabrics, particularly delicate or synthetic materials. Therefore, it is recommended to spot test a small, inconspicuous area of the fabric before applying any cleaning solution to the entire garment.

In addition to vodka, isopropyl alcohol can also be diluted for use on wool clothing. Isopropyl alcohol is typically sold with a concentration of 70% or 99%. Experts say that 70% isopropyl alcohol is better for disinfecting because it has more water, which helps it dissolve more slowly, penetrate cells, and kill bacteria. The disinfecting power of isopropyl alcohol drops at concentrations higher than 80%-85%. When diluting isopropyl alcohol, it is important to add water to achieve a concentration within the effective range of 60%-90%.

Overall, when diluting alcohol to spray on wool clothing, it is important to consider the type of alcohol being used and the desired concentration of alcohol for effective disinfection. It is also crucial to spot test the solution on a small area of the fabric before applying it to the entire garment.

Other methods to clean wool

Wool is a delicate fabric and needs to be handled with care. While spraying alcohol is one way to clean wool, there are several other methods to clean wool items. Here are some alternative ways to clean your woollens:

Hand Washing

Hand washing is an excellent way to clean wool items. Firstly, always check the label on your garment for specific instructions. If your item is structured or has a lining, like a blazer, coat, or suit, it is best to spot treat instead of washing. For spot treatment, add a small drop of a stain remover or a detergent suitable for wool to the stain. Then, add a few drops of cold water and create a lather. Use a damp stain brush to apply the lather to the stained areas, gently working it into the fabric. After lathering, remove all excess soap with a wet cotton cloth. Continue dampening the cloth with cold water and repeat the process until you are satisfied. If you are only spot cleaning, proceed to air-dry the item by hanging it or laying it flat.

For hand washing a wool coat or sweater, fill a tub or large basin with lukewarm or cold water. Add a mild detergent or liquid soap—slightly less than a tablespoon. Turn your wool item inside out and submerge it in the water. Gently agitate the item in the water for a few minutes. If you are not using a rinse-free detergent, remove the item and refill the basin with water. Keep rinsing until there are no more soap suds, replacing with clean water as needed. Avoid wringing out the water, as this can ruin the shape of your garment and cause wrinkles. Instead, gently squeeze out the excess water and lay the item flat on a clean towel. Roll up the item in the towel to remove any remaining water.

Machine Washing

Many wool items, such as sweaters, pants, socks, and blankets, can be safely machine-washed using gentle methods and a wool detergent. Always check the care label on your garment to ensure it is safe to machine wash. Turn your wool item inside out and place it in a mesh bag to protect it from snagging, tearing, and warping inside the machine. Select the delicate, "handwash," or wool setting on your washing machine, and make sure the water temperature is cold and the spin is on low. Use a wool detergent, preferably one that is Woolmark-approved.

Stain Removal

For stubborn stains, you can use rubbing alcohol or white vinegar as a stain remover. Dab gently around the edge of the stain with a lint-free cloth soaked in a dilute solution of rubbing alcohol or vinegar. Blot gently with an absorbent cloth to remove excess liquid, then rinse well. Repeat this process until the stain is removed. Once the stain is gone, wash the garment using a Woolmark-approved detergent.

Pilling Removal

Pilling occurs when fabric rubs against itself or other garments, forming lint balls. To remove pills, lay your coat or sweater flat and gently comb it with short, downward strokes using a fabric comb, fabric shaver, or pill remover. Do not comb too aggressively, or you might snag the fabric.

Drying and Storage

After cleaning your wool item, lay it flat on a drying rack or a clean towel to air dry. Never put wool in a dryer, as it could shrink. To achieve a crease-free finish, use your hands to gently reshape the item and press away wrinkles. When storing your wool items, ensure they are clean and dry. Then, fold and store them loosely in an airtight container. You can also use cedar instead of mothballs to repel moths and leave your clothes with a fresh, woodsy scent.

Frequently asked questions