Is it ok to clean clear parts with alcohol before painting?
I use only soap and water, just to be safe.
What kind of alcohol? Isopropyl alcohol should be absolutely fine. I’ve left clear styrene submerged in IP alcohol for two weeks and it showed no ill-effects.
I would be cautious about using anything labeled ‘denatured’ alcohol. Some brands will have a bit of MEK in it, which will likely damage styrene. Read the label and test on some sprue before you use it on a windshield or canopy.
Why not use a super fine polish like Novus or Simoniz Swirl Remover? Not only will the part be cleaned but will be polished to crystal clarity.
Agree! You want isopropyl. Mild soap and water are fine, but I keep a bottle of iso on my bench- handy, no mixing required.
I agree with Don, Stik is also right. I wash all parts in mild soap and water when kit is opened, two rinses to remove all residue. Novus is a great product for cleaning and polishing the clear parts.
Iso alcohol has yet to harm anything I have used it on, over many years. I stick with major brand names, for consistent quality.