Is Surgical Spirit the Same as Rubbing Alcohol?

Introduction

Two Dispensing Bottles of Surgical Spirit

At first glance, both Surgical Spirit and Rubbing Alcohol are thought to be the same in terms of use and composition as both are commonly used as disinfectants and antiseptics, however in this guide, APC Pure will show you the difference between both Surgical Spirit and Rubbing Alcohol (Isopropanol 70% Blend), from composition to its uses.

Properties

Surgical Spirit and Rubbing Alcohol share similar antiseptic and disinfectant properties, both having strong antimicrobial activity. However, Surgical Spirits tend to have a slightly slower evaporation rate due to added components, whereas isopropanol evaporates rapidly, leaving no residue.

Both are highly flammable, volatile and have a strong odour, though Rubbing Alcohol’s scent is generally milder. In industrial and laboratory settings, Rubbing Alcohol is preferred for precision cleaning due to its purity and lack of additives, while Surgical Spirits are more commonly used for medical applications.

Composition

Surgical Spirit is a mixture of and in other formulations, it’s often mixed with Methyl Salicylate and Castor Oil, as seen with APC Pure’s Surgical BP Plus.

On the other hand, Isopropanol, also known as Isopropyl Alcohol, is composed of 70% to 99% isopropyl alcohol, with the remaining percentage being distilled water.

Comparing Uses

Surgical Spirit is primarily used in medical applications, such as disinfecting instruments, and adhesive residue removal. Rubbing Alcohol, (usually high-concentration isopropanol) is used for cleaning electronics, sanitising surfaces, and dissolving grease and ink stains.

Furthermore, Surgical Spirit is a handy solution for a range of cleaning tasks, including DIY hand sanitiser, stubborn stickers, and permanent marker removal.

Additionally, it works as a computer mouse and keyboard disinfectant, mobile phone sanitiser, jewellery sparkler, and ink stain eraser, making it a versatile tool for both medical and household use.

Surgical Spirit is ideal for healthcare and first-aid use while Rubbing Alcohol is better suited for household, industrial, and technical cleaning, making it more suitable beyond medical environments.

For more information, read our blog on The Many Uses of Surgical Spirit and The Many Uses of Isopropanol

Is Isopropyl Alcohol the Same as Surgical Spririt? - Conclusions

In conclusion, while both Surgical Spirit and Rubbing Alcohol serve as effective disinfectants and antiseptics, their composition, properties, and uses differ significantly.

Surgical Spirit’s formulation is tailored more for medical applications, making it an essential product in healthcare settings.

On the other hand Rubbing Alcohol, with its higher purity and rapid evaporation, is better for industrial and household cleaning.