Why You Should Buy 75% Ethanol for Disinfection, Not Make It at Home

The creation and consumption of homemade ethanol are complex and often illegal processes. If you're looking for a reliable and safe disinfectant, it is strongly recommended to purchase 75% ethanol from a reputable store. This article will explore the risks associated with making ethanol at home and the benefits of purchasing it ready-made.

The Risks and Inefficiency of Making Ethanol at Home

It is essential to recognize that making 75% ethanol at home carries significant risks and is not a practical or economically viable solution. Ethanol is a potent killing agent and a powerful solvent that can dissolve water. It is not equivalent to commercial disinfectants like Dettol or similar products. Due to the complexity and legal restrictions involved, attempting to make ethanol at home is both uneconomical and potentially dangerous.

One common approach mentioned is to ferment sugar to produce ethanol and subsequently distill it to increase the concentration. This process is illegal in most places and can lead to serious health and legal issues. Even if you are successful in distilling, it requires specialized equipment and knowledge, making it a highly impractical solution.

Safe and Legal Option: Buying 75% Ethanol

The easiest and most effective way to obtain 75% ethanol is to purchase it from a liquor store. Several options are available, such as Everclear, which is commonly available in higher concentrations (190 proof, or 95% alcohol). To get to 75%, mix Everclear with water. For instance, add 27 mL of water for every 100 mL of Everclear. Be cautious, as denatured alcohol may contain toxic additives and is not the same as pure ethanol.

Alternative Disinfectants

While ethanol is an effective disinfectant, there are alternative options that may be easier and safer to acquire. Some effective alternatives include:

Hydrogen Peroxide: A common household disinfectant with strong antiviral properties. Chlorine: Effective against a wide range of pathogens, but may require dilution and safe handling. Witch Hazel: Though not as potent as ethanol, it can still be an effective option for surface disinfection. Natural Options: Essential oils like tea tree oil and lemon oil have antimicrobial properties. These can be used in small concentrations to create a disinfectant. Soap and Water: A simple and effective method. Most hand soaps are designed to kill germs and reduce the risk of illness.

Conclusion

In summary, purchasing 75% ethanol from a liquor store is the best and safest option for creating a disinfectant solution at home. While there are alternative methods and products available, they may not offer the same level of efficacy or convenience. Remember to always follow safety guidelines and legal provisions when handling alcohol.