Can Alcohol Be Sprayed on a Car?
2 Answers
Alcohol can be sprayed on a car. Alcohol has the effect of disinfection and sterilization, but it is better to use a wiping method instead of direct spraying. Before using 75% alcohol for disinfection, the car should be turned off and kept in a non-operational state. At the same time, ensure the car is well-ventilated and avoid contact with open flames to prevent explosions. Ethanol is a flammable, volatile, colorless, and transparent liquid at room temperature and pressure, with low toxicity. Pure liquid ethanol should not be consumed directly; it has a distinctive smell and is slightly irritating, with a mildly sweet taste accompanied by a spicy sensation. Alcohol is flammable, and its vapor can form an explosive mixture with air. It is miscible with water in any ratio. After spraying alcohol on the car, it should be left to dry in a well-ventilated area.
I once tried spraying alcohol on my car for disinfection, only to find a white haze forming on the paint surface. Later, I learned that alcohol is a strong solvent that can dissolve the wax layer and protective film on the car paint. Long-term use can dull the paint or even cause it to peel. Glass fares a bit better, but interior plastic and rubber parts are more vulnerable—alcohol can dry them out, make them brittle, and shorten their lifespan. Areas like the steering wheel and dashboard may age faster if sprayed directly. It's better to avoid the risk of using alcohol and opt for specialized car disinfectant wipes or antibacterial sprays instead—they're much safer, especially since repairing car paint can be extremely expensive. Developing a habit of regular cleaning is more practical; even washing the car with soapy water works.
