Why Warm Isopropyl Alcohol Works Better

Just like hot water loosens grease, warm ISO dissolves sticky resins faster than room-temperature alcohol. You’ll need less shaking, less soak time, and fewer repeats. The key is safe, indirect heating—never heating ISO directly or near ignition sources.

Methods to Avoid (Don’t Do These)

1) Microwaving

Microwaves can create uneven hot spots and potential arcing. ISO vapours are flammable — this combo isn’t worth the risk.

2) Open Flame or Active Heat Source

Gas burners, active electric elements, lighters, torches — anything that can ignite vapours. Never heat ISO directly on a stove or near a flame.

Safe Ways to Warm ISO

Method A: Insulated Cup (a.k.a. “Yeti Method”)

1. Pour the amount of 99% ISO you need into a zipper-seal bag and close it securely.
2. Place the sealed bag into an insulated tumbler or mug.
3. Fill the mug with hot water (steaming, not boiling) until the bag is mostly submerged.
4. Wait 1–2 minutes. The ISO warms via the water bath, never contacting heat directly.

Method B: Hot Tap Water Bath

1. Run tap water until very hot and fill a mug or bowl.
2. Place the sealed ISO bag into the hot water for 1–2 minutes.

Method C: Stovetop Water — Heat First, Then Remove

1. Heat a pot of water until just below boiling. Turn off the burner.
2. Move the pot off the heat, then set the sealed ISO bag into the hot water for 1–2 minutes.

In all cases, keep the ISO sealed, work in a ventilated area, and keep any ignition sources far away.

Using Warm ISO: Small & Large Pieces

Small Accessories (stems, mouthpieces, screens)

• Drop parts into the warm ISO bag or a small jar of warmed ISO.
• Shake 15–30 seconds; stubborn buildup may need a brief soak.
• Rinse with warm water and let dry fully before use.

Large Glass (bubblers, water pieces)

• Use a funnel to pour warmed ISO into the piece (remove water first).
• Seal openings with stoppers, shake 20–40 seconds.
• Rinse thoroughly with warm water. Repeat if needed.

Reusing Warm ISO

Slightly discoloured ISO can still clean effectively. Strain out debris (coffee filter), store in a clearly labeled, sealed container, and re-warm via a water bath next time. Discard when it’s dark or leaves residue.

FAQ

Is warming ISO safe?

Yes — when done via an indirect hot-water bath with the ISO sealed, away from ignition sources, and in a ventilated area.

What temperature should the water be?

Steaming hot (tap or just-off-boil water works). You don’t need boiling water; 1–2 minutes in hot water is enough.

Can I heat ISO in the microwave?

No. Microwaving ISO is unsafe. Use a water-bath method only.

Can I reuse ISO?

Often, yes. If it’s only lightly coloured, strain and store in a sealed, labeled container. Discard when heavily soiled.

Will warm ISO damage glass?

Standard borosilicate glass is fine with warmed ISO. Avoid drastic temperature shocks (e.g., chilled glass + hot ISO).