What Is Isopropyl Alcohol 99.9% (IPA) and What Is It Used For?

Isopropyl alcohol (IPA), also called isopropanol or 2-propanol, is a clear, fast-evaporating solvent. At 99.9% purity it contains almost no water, which is exactly why it is so popular for cleaning electronics, prepping surfaces and removing sticky residue.

Why 99.9% purity matters

Lower-strength rubbing alcohols contain a lot of water. Water evaporates slowly and can leave marks or cause problems on electrical components. High-purity IPA dissolves oils, grease and flux, then flashes off in seconds and leaves no residue behind.

Common uses for IPA 99.9%

• Electronics: cleaning circuit boards, keyboards, connectors and removing old thermal paste.
• 3D printing: degreasing print beds and washing resin prints.
• Surface prep: removing oils before painting, gluing, applying vinyl or sealants.
• Glass and mirrors: streak-free cleaning when lightly diluted.
• Adhesive removal: lifting label glue and tape residue.
• Salon and beauty tools: wiping down tools and work surfaces.
• Making your own 70% mix: combine with distilled water for a general-purpose surface cleaner.

How to use it safely

IPA is highly flammable. Use it in a well-ventilated area, away from flames, heaters and sparks, and always let it evaporate fully before powering electronics back on. Wear gloves for longer jobs, as it dries out skin. Keep the cap tightly closed and store it out of reach of children.

Test on an inconspicuous area first when cleaning painted, varnished or plastic surfaces, as some finishes can soften or cloud.

Which size should I buy?

A 1L bottle suits occasional home use. Workshops, repair shops, print farms and salons usually find 5L or 4x5L far better value per litre. Our size tabs show the price per litre so you can compare at a glance.

Shop: Isopropyl Alcohol 99.9% (IPA) with free UK delivery over £30 and a 30-day money-back guarantee.