Can alcohol be used for disinfection inside the car?
3 Answers
Alcohol can be used for spray disinfection inside the car, but it should be noted that alcohol is a flammable and explosive product. If alcohol is used for spray disinfection, it should be wiped dry immediately and placed in a well-ventilated environment with the car windows open. Try to spray on the surface of objects and avoid spraying on other hidden or hard-to-reach areas inside the car. After disinfection, do not smoke in the car or close the windows, as the temperature inside the car may rise to the ignition point of alcohol, increasing the risk of explosion or fire. If the car has leather seats, alcohol wiping may cause damage, so car owners should be particularly careful.
As someone who frequently pays attention to car maintenance, I recommend being extra cautious when using alcohol for disinfection. The flammability of alcohol is the primary concern—enclosed car spaces can easily lead to fire accidents if exposed to high temperatures or static sparks, especially in summer when the interior temperature can soar to 60-70°C. It is advisable to use 70% concentration alcohol for disinfection, as higher concentrations are less effective. Ensure windows are open for ventilation during use, avoid lighting cigarettes or starting the vehicle, and keep away from electronic components. Additionally, alcohol may corrode certain interior materials, such as causing leather seats to dry out, crack, or turn white, and plastic panels to discolor. Therefore, it’s best to test on a small area before full application. For newer cars or those with premium leather, I highly recommend professional automotive disinfectants or wipes to prolong the vehicle’s lifespan. Above all, remember: safety first—never spray alcohol carelessly throughout the entire interior just for convenience.
I'm the type who enjoys DIY car maintenance. During the pandemic, I got used to disinfecting the car interior with alcohol, finding it effective and convenient—just focus on high-touch areas like the steering wheel, door handles, and dashboard. But a word of caution: while alcohol works well, moderation is key. I noticed that excessive or repeated application can make leather rough and cause plastic parts to fade, so now I use a slightly damp soft cloth with a small amount of 70% alcohol for gentle wiping. Never spray alcohol while driving, as it can disperse and impair visibility—always do it after parking with proper ventilation. Plus, while alcohol's quick evaporation is a plus, don’t forget to do a deep clean periodically to prevent bacterial buildup. In short, regular preventive disinfection is essential, but smart application matters.
