Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) wipes can potentially remove or damage oleophobic coatings. Oleophobic coatings are designed to repel oils and other hydrophobic substances, such as fingerprints, from the surface of a device or screen. These coatings are commonly found on smartphones, tablets, and other electronic devices.
IPA is a powerful solvent and can break down or dissolve certain materials, including some types of oleophobic coatings. If you use IPA wipes on a device with an oleophobic coating, it may compromise or completely remove the coating, leading to a loss of its fingerprint-repelling properties.
Manufacturers typically advise against using alcohol-based cleaning solutions, including IPA, on devices with oleophobic coatings. Instead, they recommend using a soft, lint-free microfiber cloth slightly dampened with water or a cleaning solution specifically designed for electronics with oleophobic coatings. You should always check the device's user manual or the manufacturer's recommendations for proper cleaning procedures to avoid any potential damage.
