Isopropyl alcohol is the chemical. Isopropyl rubbing alcohol is a consumer product made from it: 68–72% isopropyl alcohol and the rest water, packaged and labeled for first aid. Every bottle of isopropyl rubbing alcohol contains IPA. A drum of industrial IPA isn't rubbing alcohol, though.
Not all rubbing alcohol is isopropyl, either. "Ethyl rubbing alcohol" is made from denatured ethanol, so check the label.
Isopropyl alcohol vs rubbing alcohol at a glance
| Industrial isopropyl alcohol (99%) | Isopropyl rubbing alcohol | |
|---|---|---|
| What's in it | 99% IPA, about 1% water | 68–72% IPA, the rest water. Some brands add color or scent, like wintergreen. |
| Sold as | A solvent and cleaner | An over-the-counter first-aid antiseptic with a Drug Facts label |
| Typical sizes | Gallons, 5-gallon pails, 55-gallon drums | 16 and 32 oz bottles |
| Best for | Electronics, surface prep, degreasing, adhesive residue, mixing your own dilutions | First aid as directed on the label, light household cleaning |
| On skin | No. It isn't made or labeled for skin. | Yes, as directed on the label |
Why is it called "rubbing" alcohol?
The name comes from its use as a rub-on liniment for massage and sore muscles. The term was already in print by 1902. Today it refers to products defined in the U.S. Pharmacopeia, which covers two versions. Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol is 68–72% isopropyl alcohol. Rubbing Alcohol is 68.5–71.5% denatured ethanol.
Is 70% isopropyl alcohol the same as rubbing alcohol?
The ratio is the same, but the product isn't. A 70% mix you make from 99% IPA and distilled water matches the ratio of isopropyl rubbing alcohol. The difference is how each one is made and labeled. Rubbing alcohol is manufactured and labeled as a drug product for use on skin. Your homemade mix isn't a drug or a registered disinfectant. Use it as a cleaner, not on people.
If you're mixing your own, our dilution chart has the measurements for every common strength.
Can you use rubbing alcohol instead of isopropyl alcohol for cleaning?
For light cleaning, yes. It falls short in three places:
- The water. At roughly 30% water, it dries slower and isn't what you want near circuit boards or connectors.
- Additives. Colored or scented versions can leave residue on surfaces you're trying to prep.
- Volume. Small retail bottles don't go far in a shop, a kitchen or a plant.
For electronics, surface prep and adhesive residue, use 99% IPA.
Isopropyl alcohol vs ethanol
Ethanol, or ethyl alcohol, is the alcohol in drinks. Both evaporate fast, both are flammable and both clean well. IPA is a bit better at dissolving oils, and it's the usual pick for electronics and surface prep. Ethanol sold for cleaning is almost always denatured, which brings us to the next one.
Isopropyl alcohol vs denatured alcohol
Denatured alcohol is ethanol with additives mixed in to make it undrinkable. The additives vary by brand, and some formulas contain a lot of methanol, which is toxic. It's the traditional choice for thinning shellac and fueling alcohol stoves.
For general cleaning, the two overlap. IPA is the usual pick for electronics and surface prep because it's a single, consistent chemical with no mystery additives.
Isopropyl alcohol vs acetone
Acetone is a much stronger solvent. It dissolves nail polish, super glue, many paints and plenty of plastics. That strength is also the risk, because it can melt plastic and strip paint and finishes.
IPA is gentler. It cleans without attacking most surfaces. The rule of thumb is to start with IPA and move up to acetone only for residue IPA won't budge, on a surface you know can take it. Both are highly flammable.
Isopropyl alcohol vs hydrogen peroxide
These are different kinds of products. Household hydrogen peroxide is about 3% peroxide in water. It's an oxidizer, not a solvent, so it won't cut grease or adhesive. It can also lighten some dyed fabrics, so spot-test first. Don't mix it with IPA or anything else.
Isopropyl alcohol vs other solvents: quick comparison
| Product | Cleaning strength | Dries | Watch out for | Reach for it when |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Isopropyl alcohol (99%) | Moderate solvent | Fast | Flammable. Can craze acrylic and damage polyurethane and some rubber parts. | Electronics, surface prep, residue, general cleaning (diluted) |
| Rubbing alcohol (~70%) | Mild | Medium | Water content, possible additives | First aid, light cleaning |
| Denatured alcohol | Moderate solvent | Fast | Additives vary, and some are toxic | Shellac, stove fuel |
| Acetone | Strong solvent | Very fast | Melts many plastics, strips paint and finishes | Nail polish, super glue, tough residue IPA won't move |
| Hydrogen peroxide (3%) | Not a solvent | Slow | Can lighten some dyes | First aid as labeled, oxygen-bleach stain work |
[PRODUCT: 99% Isopropyl Alcohol, 5-gallon pail and 55-gallon drum. Image, price, link to {{URL_PRODUCT_IPA99}}]
Frequently asked questions
Is isopropyl alcohol the same as isopropanol?
Yes. Isopropyl alcohol, isopropanol, 2-propanol and IPA are all names for the same chemical.
Are isopropyl alcohol and ethyl rubbing alcohol the same thing?
No. Ethyl rubbing alcohol is made from denatured ethanol, not isopropyl alcohol. Both are sold around 70% for first aid, but they're different chemicals.
Can I use industrial 99% isopropyl alcohol on my skin?
No. Industrial IPA isn't made or labeled for skin, wounds or hand sanitizer. Buy a product labeled for first aid.
Is isopropyl alcohol toxic?
Yes, if swallowed, and breathing heavy vapor in a closed space isn't safe either. Use it with ventilation and keep it away from kids. If someone swallows it, call Poison Help at 1-800-222-1222.
Where shouldn't you use isopropyl alcohol?
Skip it on shellac and lacquer finishes, acrylic, leather and polyurethane. Check the maker's guidance before you use it on screens or rubber seals, and keep it away from heat and flame. Our full guide to isopropyl alcohol uses covers where it works and where it doesn't.
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