Does Rubbing Alcohol Kill Mildew?
The EPA pages we read do not list rubbing alcohol for mold or mildew cleanup. Its advice is to scrub hard surfaces with detergent and water and dry them completely, because dead mold can still cause allergic reactions and has to be removed.
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Rubbing Alcohol Dilution Chart (PDF)
How much 99%, 91% or 70% rubbing alcohol and water to mix for a 70% or 60% cleaning solution, for 100, 250 and 500 ml. Every line shows its source and the date we read it. Print it or keep it on your phone.
- Ready-made amounts for 99%, 91% and 70% bottles
- The 60-90% range the CDC gives for alcohol disinfectants, and safety notes
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What the EPA recommends
For hard surfaces, the EPA says to scrub with detergent and water and dry completely. Moisture control is the core of mold control, so fix the leak or humidity problem first.
The EPA also says killing mold is not enough: “Dead mold may still cause allergic reactions in some people,” so it has to be removed. The pages we read do not mention rubbing alcohol.
Disinfectants
The EPA says bleach or another biocide is not recommended as routine practice during mold cleanup, though professional judgment may support it in some cases, such as when immune-compromised people are present. Complete sterilization is usually not realistic. If you use a disinfectant, ventilate the area.
CDC describes ethyl and isopropyl alcohol as disinfectants at 60% to 90% in water, but that guidance is for healthcare settings and does not cover mold on household surfaces. It also says alcohols are flammable and evaporate quickly.
Safety
- Never mix bleach with ammonia products or other cleaners.
- Keep rubbing alcohol away from flames and sparks. NIOSH lists isopropyl alcohol as a Class IB flammable liquid.
- Porous items such as carpet or ceiling tiles may need to be thrown away.
Use the rubbing alcohol dilution calculator for mixes.
People also ask
Does the EPA recommend rubbing alcohol for mold?
The EPA pages we read do not mention it. They recommend detergent and water, then complete drying.
Do I need to remove dead mold?
Yes. The EPA says dead mold may still cause allergic reactions.
Is rubbing alcohol flammable?
Yes. NIOSH lists isopropyl alcohol as a Class IB flammable liquid with a flash point of 53 F.
Sources
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