Question Removing thermal paste

[johnsoner13]

Hi, quick question; do i need to use isopropyl alcohol to clean thermal paste off my cpu or can i just wipe it off with a dry paper towel or maybe a damp one? Thanks

 

[kanewolf]

Alcohol is recommended. It dries faster and leaves no residue. A dry coffee filter, rather than a paper towel, is recommended. A paper towel can leave paper fibers.
I would NOT recommend using water, since it can leave mineral residue.

 

[richiestang_78]

Agreed alcohol (highest % you can get) along with a coffee filter is what should be used. Neither of these are hard to obtain and just about ever convenience/drug store will have both for under 5 bucks.

 

[SamirD]

In a pinch, I've wiped it off with tissues before and then used a red eraser to polish off the rest of anything left. Leaves it nice and shiny too.

 

[prophet51]

I just used a paper towel and isopprop.