Can alcohol be sprayed inside a car?
2 Answers
Alcohol can be used inside a car. It has disinfecting and sterilizing properties, but it is recommended to use it by wiping instead of direct spraying. Before using 75% alcohol for disinfection, the car should be turned off and kept in a non-operational state. Ensure proper ventilation in the car and avoid contact with open flames to prevent explosions. Precautions for disinfecting a car with alcohol include: 1. Alcohol is flammable and explosive, so after spraying, it should be wiped dry immediately; 2. Keep the car in a well-ventilated area with windows open, and try to spray only on surfaces, avoiding hidden or hard-to-reach areas inside the car; 3. After disinfection, do not smoke inside the car or close the windows, as rising temperatures may reach the ignition point of alcohol, leading to explosions or fires.
Having driven for over a decade, I used to think spraying alcohol in the car could disinfect it, but it's crucial not to do so carelessly—there are significant risks. Alcohol is highly flammable, especially during summer when interior temperatures rise. A single spray could accidentally ignite and cause a fire, making it very unsafe. I once tried it myself, spraying the cabin under sunlight for disinfection, and nearly set my hair on fire—it was terrifying. Moreover, alcohol damages interiors: leather seats can dry out and crack, while plastic components like dashboards may become brittle or develop white marks. Now, I’ve learned to be smarter—I only use 70% alcohol spray on small areas like door handles, wiping it dry immediately to avoid pooling. Opening windows for at least 10 minutes to ventilate and reduce lingering odors is a good habit. For thorough disinfection, I recommend switching to automotive-specific sprays or UV sanitizing lights, which are safer and more reliable. In short, moderate spraying is fine, but always prioritize safety details.
