Cleaing Thermal Paste from CPU

daEX982

Commendable
Apr 11, 2016
5
0
1,510
I have read that you can clean thermal paste from CPU with 99% alcohol. Did somebody tried to clean it with alcohol wipes?
I thought I had some 99% alcohol, but it turns out I only have wipes with 70% isopropyl and 2% chlorhexidine. Can I clean my CPU with it?

Also, should I remove CPU from motherboard?
 
Solution
I always use alcohol wipes and have never had a problem cleaning it properly.

In my personal opinion, the CPU shouldn't be disturbed once it's in the socket. Gently stroke the wipe over the plate until it's perfectly clean then drop a small amount of good quality thermal paste on to the centre. The heatsink will spread it evenly around if you aim to position it from the upright position.
I always use alcohol wipes and have never had a problem cleaning it properly.

In my personal opinion, the CPU shouldn't be disturbed once it's in the socket. Gently stroke the wipe over the plate until it's perfectly clean then drop a small amount of good quality thermal paste on to the centre. The heatsink will spread it evenly around if you aim to position it from the upright position.
 
Solution