TAMPA, Fla. (BLOOM) — Most people know rubbing alcohol as a first-aid essential, but experts say it’s also one of the most versatile tools you can keep in your cabinet. Whether it’s for disinfecting surfaces, freshening up silk flowers, or even sprucing up your gardening tools, this simple mix of isopropyl or ethyl alcohol and water has a surprising range of uses.

Here are eight smart, expert-backed ways to use rubbing alcohol throughout your home and garden.

1. Disinfect High-Touch Surfaces

Rubbing alcohol is a quick-drying, residue-free disinfectant, making it ideal for cleaning counters, light switches, and doorknobs. “It kills both bacteria and viruses,” said Scott Schrader, cleaning expert at CottageCare. “It’s a good replacement for harsh chemical cleaners.”

2. Clean Artificial Flowers

Dust and kitchen grease can dull the look of silk or plastic flowers, but rubbing alcohol can help. “It breaks down grime without soaking the petals,” said Tom Yates, founder of Wreaths.co.uk. He recommends diluting it 1:1 with water and testing on a small section first to prevent fading.

3. Remove Carpet Stains

If you’ve spilled something on your rug, rubbing alcohol might be your fix. “Dab it on the stain—don’t rub—and repeat until the stain fades,” said Andrew Cohn, a DIY expert. Let it air dry afterward.

4. Clean Makeup Brushes

Professional organizer Lauren Saltman suggests spritzing rubbing alcohol on makeup brush bristles for a quick sanitizing solution. “Swirl them on a towel to remove buildup,” she said. Just avoid overuse, as it can dry out bristles over time.

5. Add Flair to Art Projects

Rubbing alcohol isn’t just for cleaning—it can help you get creative. “Use a dropper to drip it on a painted canvas,” said Cohn. “It separates the colors and creates a watercolor-like effect.”

6. Shine Metal Surfaces

Want to keep your pool ladder or outdoor fixtures looking polished? Mix rubbing alcohol with water and wipe down shiny metal with a cloth, said Jeremy Yamaguchi, CEO of Cabana. “It’s a quick way to clean and disinfect high-touch metal.”

7. Prevent Streaky Windows

Ryan Knoll, owner of Tidy Casa cleaning service, swears by adding a splash of rubbing alcohol to regular glass cleaner. “It helps the solution dry faster and keeps windows streak-free,” he said.

8. Sanitize Gardening Tools

To avoid spreading plant diseases, clean your pruning shears after every use. “Wipe blades down with rubbing alcohol,” advised Steve Corcoran, CEO of Lawn Love. It’s a simple habit that can protect your plants long-term.

Rubbing Alcohol Safety Tips

While effective, rubbing alcohol should be used carefully. It can damage materials like leather, acrylic, marble, and granite. It’s also flammable and may irritate the skin, so experts recommend wearing gloves, working in ventilated areas, and testing a small area before use.

Whether you’re tidying up the windows or prepping tools for the garden, a bottle of rubbing alcohol may be more helpful than you think.