Should alcohol be used first or iodophor first?

It is recommended to use alcohol first when disinfecting.

Povidone-iodine has broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties and can eliminate a wider variety of bacteria and viruses, but it requires a longer time to take effect. If povidone-iodine is used before alcohol, its disinfecting efficacy may be reduced, as alcohol can cause the iodine to volatilize and decrease the concentration of its active components. Therefore, using alcohol before povidone-iodine can enhance the overall disinfection effectiveness and reduce the risk of infection. However, when using both alcohol and povidone-iodine, it is important to follow correct disinfection methods and operational guidelines to avoid damaging healthy tissue.

Alcohol acts quickly to kill microorganisms, rapidly eliminating surface bacteria and viruses and reducing the risk of infection. It also helps povidone-iodine penetrate more effectively into deeper layers of the skin, improving disinfection efficacy.

Alcohol should be stored in a cool, well-ventilated area away from open flames and heat sources, with storage temperatures not exceeding 30°C. Povidone-iodine should be kept in a cool, dry place and tightly sealed after use to prevent degradation.