25 Alternative Uses for Rubbing Alcohol

Humbly-disguised in boring, unattractive packaging, the numerous alternative uses of rubbing alcohol are easy to miss. Sure, it'll ease a sore muscle and cool a fever, but did you know it can also be used to create a nifty ice pack? With more than 20 ah-HAH! uses, rubbing alcohol is an inexpensive, drugstore wallflower worth a second look.

Priced to sell between $1.99 (CVS for 70% Isopropyl) and $3.95 for (90% Isopropyl at Amazon.com) a 16-ounce bottle is generally recommended for use in "decreasing germs in minor cuts and scrapes ... and relieving minor muscular aches due to over exertion." But don't stop there.

Mirror Mirror
The ThriftyFun website suggests using rubbing alcohol on a soft cloth or paper towel to clean old mirrors that have developed a patina or stubborn spots and streaks. The site also notes the same treatment can be given to bathroom mirrors, faucets and counters. "It eliminates germs on many surfaces and cleans them for little cost," enthuses the site.