How long should I let my grinder sit in alcohol?

Answered by Robert Dupre

When it comes to cleaning your grinder with alcohol, it’s important to let it soak for a sufficient amount of time to ensure that all the plant residue is broken apart and loosened. So, how long should you let your grinder sit in alcohol? The general recommendation is to let it soak for about 20-30 minutes.

During this time, the isopropyl alcohol works to dissolve and loosen the sticky resin and plant residue that can build up on the grinder’s surfaces. By allowing the grinder to soak for a proper amount of time, you give the alcohol enough opportunity to break down these substances effectively.

It’s important to note that you should fully submerge all parts of the grinder in the alcohol to ensure thorough cleaning. This includes the main chamber, the grinding teeth, the screen (if your grinder has one), and any other removable parts.

While the grinder is soaking, it’s a good idea to agitate the container every once in a while. This helps to further loosen the plant residue and allows the alcohol to reach all the nooks and crannies of the grinder. You can gently shake or swirl the container to achieve this.

After the 20-30 minutes of soaking time has elapsed, it’s time to pour out the alcohol. Be sure to do this carefully, as the alcohol may still contain dissolved resin and can be messy. Dispose of the alcohol properly according to your local regulations.

Once the alcohol has been poured out, it’s time to give your grinder a thorough scrub. Using a stiff-bristled brush, scrub all the surfaces of the grinder, paying extra attention to the grinding teeth and any areas where residue may have accumulated. This will help to remove any remaining residue and ensure a clean grinder.

After scrubbing, rinse the grinder under warm water to remove any alcohol or residue. You may need to use a toothbrush or q-tip to get into smaller crevices and remove any stubborn residue.

Once you’re satisfied with the cleanliness of your grinder, it’s important to let it dry completely before using it again. This can be done by laying the disassembled parts out on a clean towel or paper towel and allowing them to air dry. Make sure all parts are fully dry before reassembling and using your grinder.

Letting your grinder sit in isopropyl alcohol for 20-30 minutes is generally recommended for effective cleaning. Remember to fully submerge all parts, agitate the container occasionally, and thoroughly scrub the grinder after soaking. By following these steps, you can ensure that your grinder is clean and ready for use.