Yes, if only slightly tinted. Filter and reuse until it’s very dirty or leaves residue.

Switching from room temperature to warm ISO has completely changed my cleaning routine. The results are faster, more effective, and way less frustrating. If you haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend giving it a shot. Just remember to follow the safety tips—ISO is highly flammable, so handle it with care.

How to Safely Warm Isopropyl Alcohol for Cleaning Glass & Vaporizers

Warm ISO makes cleaning faster and easier, but it must be done carefully. Here’s how to heat ISO with simple water baths, avoid dangerous methods, and reuse it to save money while keeping your gear spotless.

Why Warmer ISO Cleans Better

Warm liquids clean more effectively than cold ones — ISO is no different. At room temp, it works fine, but warmed ISO cuts through resin like a hot knife through butter. The catch: it’s highly flammable, so you must heat indirectly and safely.

Unsafe Ways to Heat ISO (Don’t Try These)

Microwaves

Microwaving alcohol is a hazard. Uneven heating + flammable vapours = unnecessary risk. Skip it.

Direct Flames or Active Burners

Never place ISO near a flame, lighter, gas stove, or glowing coil. Even residual vapour can ignite.

Safe Water-Bath Methods

1. Insulated Mug (Best)

Seal ISO in a zipper bag or small jar.
Set it inside an insulated cup.
Pour in hot (not boiling) water until submerged.
Wait 1–2 minutes. The ISO warms evenly and safely.

2. Hot Tap Water

Fill a cup with the hottest tap water, place the sealed ISO inside, and let it warm briefly.

3. Heated Pot (Off Burner)

Heat water to just below boiling, turn off the burner, remove the pot, then add your sealed ISO container. Never place it while the burner is on.

How to Use Warm ISO

Small Parts

Drop stems, screens, or mouthpieces directly in warmed ISO. Shake or soak briefly, then rinse with warm water.

Larger Glass

Pour warmed ISO into your water pipe with stoppers in place. Shake gently for 20–40 seconds, then rinse thoroughly.

Reusing ISO

After a clean, ISO may look slightly golden but still works. Filter out solids and store sealed for another round. Once it turns dark or leaves film, it’s time to replace.

FAQ

Is it safe to warm ISO?

Yes, if you heat indirectly (sealed container in hot water) and keep flames or sparks far away.

What water temp works best?

Steaming hot — not boiling. A couple minutes in hot water is all it takes.

Can ISO go in the microwave?

No, microwaving ISO is unsafe. Always use a water bath.

Can I recycle ISO?

Yes. If lightly tinted, strain and reuse. When it’s very dirty or sticky, replace it.

Will warm ISO hurt glass?

Borosilicate glass handles it fine. Avoid combining extreme temps (hot ISO into cold glass).

How To Safely Heat Isopropyl Alcohol for Cleaning Cannabis Vaporizers