Cleaning equipment and tools after using DOWSIL™ 888 Silicone Joint Sealant depends on whether the silicone is still uncured (fresh) or has already cured (hardened). 1. Cleaning Uncured (Fresh) Sealant • Wipe immediately: Remove excess wet sealant mechanically using scrapers, putty knives, or clean rags. • Solvent wipe: Clean residual uncured silicone oils or film using solvents like isopropyl alcohol (IPA) (>90% concentration), mineral spirits, toluene, or xylene on a lint-free cloth. • Aqueous cleaners: For industrial equipment or parts handling, DOWSIL™ DS-1000 Aqueous Silicone Cleaner can be used to emulsify and wash away uncured silicone residues. 2. Cleaning Cured (Hardened) Sealant • Mechanical removal: Scrape off bulk cured silicone using a sharp blade, razor, or flat metal/plastic tool carefully to avoid damaging the equipment surface. • Chemical softening/dissolution: If cured silicone is stubborn or hard to cut, apply specialized silicone solvents such as DOWSIL™ DS-2025 Silicone Cleaning Solvent, which depolymerizes and dissolves cured silicone films. Alternatively, solvents like IPA, toluene, or mineral spirits can help soften the material for easier removal. • Rinse and dry: Wash the equipment thoroughly with water or a mild detergent after solvent treatment and dry completely before reuse.