How long does it take for alcohol sprayed in a car to evaporate?
2 Answers
If all the car windows are opened for ventilation, it usually takes about 10 minutes for the alcohol to evaporate. Additionally, when spraying alcohol inside the car, it should be done after turning off the engine and power. After spraying, the vehicle should be parked in a cool and safe location with the doors open to allow the alcohol to evaporate quickly. Car owners can open the windows to ventilate the car promptly, which helps accelerate the evaporation of alcohol. More details are as follows: 1. When the alcohol concentration exceeds 70%, its evaporation increases the flammable gas content in the car's air. Even a small spark in the air could potentially cause a flash fire, which is more dangerous than the alcohol igniting. Spraying alcohol solutions can also increase humidity inside the car, leading to long-term moisture that may cause mold growth on the interior and damage electronic circuits. 2. Avoid using any disinfectant or alcohol to directly wipe leather parts or chrome-plated decorations in the car, as this may cause corrosion, discoloration, whitening, or other damage to the leather or interior components, which cannot be repaired.
The evaporation speed of alcohol sprayed in a car mainly depends on three factors: ventilation, temperature, and the amount of alcohol. With windows open for ventilation, a small spray typically dissipates within five minutes. However, if the doors and windows are closed and a large amount is sprayed, it may take over half an hour. Temperature plays a significant role—spraying alcohol in a car under the scorching summer sun causes it to evaporate as quickly as splashing water. In contrast, during cold winter days, alcohol tends to condense on glass and plastic parts, requiring a longer wait. I recommend opening the windows immediately after disinfection, turning on the air conditioning in external circulation mode for ten minutes, and then wiping areas like the dashboard with a dry cloth. Be extremely cautious not to smoke or ignite any flames, as alcohol vapor can flash-ignite upon contact with an open flame.
