3 chemicals you need in your workshop (and what to use them for)

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The three chemicals in question: Isopropyl alcohol (IPA), acetone, and n-heptane

A proper, functioning workshop needs more than tools. Sometimes, having access to the right chemicals can make all the difference.

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The three chemicals I'll discuss below have numerous uses, from cleaning circuit boards, wiping the print bed of your 3D printer, and removing sticky labels.

Before I introduce the chemicals, here are a few safety precautions I strongly recommend you follow:

Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) is a chemical that I use frequently, thanks to its wide-ranging applications.

Acetone is an indispensable asset to any workshop, due to its versatility and effectiveness.

n-Heptane, a highly effective and fast-evaporating solvent, can be an essential tool in the workshop.

I use an old toothbrush, or one bought special for the task at hand. Another good alternative is to use what are called "acid flux brushes," which are a lot cheaper than toothbrushes.

While I keep the bulk of my chemicals in their original bottles, nothing is going to ruin your day faster than spilling a quart of any of these chemicals on your bench, floor, or carpet. Not only do they smell, and carry a risk of fire, but they can damage surfaces.

Also: This stuff is better than super glue

This is why I decant a small amount -- no more than 15 ml/0.5 fl oz -- into spill-free dispensing bottles that have applicator needles fitted.

These are great for dispensing small amounts of the chemicals into exactly where you need them.

These spill-free dispensing bottles are awesome!

I use my Brother PTE-300 industrial label maker to make labels for my dispensing bottles. These labels resist chemical attacks and last far better than printed or hand-written labels.

Also: Why I love my heavy-duty label maker so much

Brother PTE300