How to remove povidone-iodine
Jan 24, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Introduction
Povidone-iodine is commonly used for cleaning and disinfecting skin wounds. If povidone-iodine accidentally gets onto clothing or skin, it can be removed by immediate washing, using alcohol, vitamin C tablets, soap and water, or laundry detergent. When treating povidone-iodine stains, avoid using hot water, as it may make the stain more stubborn.
Povidone-iodine is commonly used to clean and disinfect skin wounds. If povidone-iodine gets onto clothing or skin accidentally, it can be removed by immediate washing, using alcohol, using vitamin C tablets, using soap and water, or using laundry detergent. The specific methods are analyzed as follows:
1. Immediate washing: Once a povidone-iodine stain is noticed, it should be treated as soon as possible. Fresh stains are easier to remove than older stains.
2. Using alcohol: Since povidone-iodine is soluble in alcohol, medical alcohol or white liquor can be used to remove the stain. Pour alcohol onto the stain, gently rub, and then rinse thoroughly with water.
3. Using vitamin C tablets: Dissolve a vitamin C tablet in water and use the solution to wipe the povidone-iodine stain. The reducing property of vitamin C helps remove the iodine stain.
4. Using soap and water: For povidone-iodine stains on the skin, they can be washed directly with soap and water. After repeated rubbing, the stain should gradually fade.
5. Using laundry detergent: For povidone-iodine stains on clothing, soak the garment in cold water first, then apply an appropriate amount of laundry detergent to the stained area and gently rub. If the stain remains stubborn, enzymatic laundry detergent can be used, as enzymes help break down stains.
When dealing with povidone-iodine stains, avoid using hot water, as it may make the stain more persistent.
