Cleaning off thermal paste

Josh17

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Oct 20, 2013
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I am going to be switching CPU coolers and was wondering what i would use to clean off the previous thermal paste? i think most places recommend isopropyl alcohol but i dont have any of this stuff. Can i use something like nailpolish remover to clean it off? Thanks
 
Solution
In all honesty, I remove my thermal paste with just a regular ole' paper towel. Just as long as you don't leave any residue, you should be fine. If you want to be extra safe, though, I'd at least advise regular rubbing alcohol. Don't drench the paper towel in alcohol. Only use about a light dab. Clean, rinse, repeat if its not all off in one go.

biohazrdfear

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Mar 1, 2013
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In all honesty, I remove my thermal paste with just a regular ole' paper towel. Just as long as you don't leave any residue, you should be fine. If you want to be extra safe, though, I'd at least advise regular rubbing alcohol. Don't drench the paper towel in alcohol. Only use about a light dab. Clean, rinse, repeat if its not all off in one go.
 
Solution

Eximo

Titan
Ambassador
Nail polish remover would tend to leave behind a residue. And many contain acetone which can pit metal if left on long enough. There are isopropyl based nail polish removers but they also contain other ingredients.

A bottle of 70% isopropyl (rubbing alcohol) is usually under 5 dollars for a large bottle.