70% or 96% alcohol: what’s the difference?

In these weeks when any prevention and protection measure feels essential... the big question arises: 70% or 96% alcohol. Do they work the same? What’s the difference? And which one is more advisable? We explain everything here. Before looking at the differences between 70% and 96% alcohol, let us clear up the first doubt. Ethyl or isopropyl? Both are used as antiseptics; however, ethyl alcohol can be consumed directly, whereas isopropyl alcohol cannot.

70% and 96% alcohol: differences

Both are powerful disinfectants and cleaners for medical use, such as skin disinfection. But... although their functions are the same, there is a major difference between 70% and 96% alcohol. Do you know what it is? Exactly, the alcohol strength. But this is not the only thing that sets 70% alcohol apart from 96% alcohol. Another distinguishing feature is that 70% alcohol is usually denatured. In other words, it is diluted with distilled or purified water. In contrast, 96% alcohol is usually found in its pure state.

Which alcohol disinfects better?

As I mentioned, both are disinfectants, so they are suitable for cleaning areas or surfaces. But if we are talking about effectiveness, we would choose 70% alcohol. Do you know why? Because, being diluted, it reaches microorganisms better, killing both the inside and the outside, even if it does so more slowly. 96% alcohol, on the other hand, works faster but not as effectively. By less effectively, we mean that, because it is so strong, it destroys the outside of the cell before it can kill the germ. Another important point to bear in mind is the risk of inflammation. 70% alcohol, being diluted, carries a lower risk than 96% alcohol of catching fire. Therefore, it is safer.

Where to buy 70% or 96% alcohol?

Although at times like these finding disinfectant products such as 70% or 96% alcohol can be quite difficult, at Farmaciasdirect we have a wide selection of essential products for prevention and safety against contagion. These include both types of alcohol. If you are looking for 70% alcohol, just click here to add it to your first aid kit.Alchol 70º desinfectante Total Plus 1. And if you prefer alcohol with a higher volume, we also have 96% alcohol, which you can get here.Alcohol 96º desinfectante Total Plus 1 L For any questions or if you are looking for protection products, do not hesitate to contact us. My colleague Mercedes and I will be delighted to help and recommend which prevention guidelines you should follow.