Is it okay to store alcohol in the car?
2 Answers
Alcohol can be stored in the car, but it is not recommended for car owners to place medical alcohol inside the vehicle. This is because medical alcohol typically has an alcohol concentration of 75%, making it a dangerous flammable and explosive substance. If the temperature inside the car becomes too high, it may lead to combustion. If disinfection is necessary, it is advisable to find an open area to wipe the car interior with alcohol for disinfection, while ensuring proper ventilation inside the car for a period of time. If alcohol must be stored in the car, the owner should take adequate safety precautions beforehand. Use a leak-proof, pressure-resistant, and impact-resistant sealed container to package the alcohol, and avoid storing it for too long to prevent accidental safety incidents.
I also used to think carrying alcohol in the car for disinfection was convenient, but a personal experience changed my mind. Last summer, I left an alcohol spray on the passenger seat, and the afternoon car temperature likely exceeded 60°C, nearly deforming the plastic bottle. Research revealed that alcohol vapor can ignite upon contact with open flames or static electricity. With dashboard temperatures in summer high enough to cook eggs, it’s practically a ticking time bomb. Now, I’ve switched to individually packaged alcohol wipes, sealing them properly in the trunk after use. If liquid alcohol is a must, it should be factory-sealed and kept away from heat sources like power banks and lighters. Safety isn’t about taking chances—if necessary, opt for alcohol-free hand sanitizer for added security.
