What’s the best way to clean thermal paste off my CPU without isopropyl alcohol?

A coffee filter works great too! They’re less likely to leave any fibers behind. Plus, they're usually easy to find.

Honestly, I'd recommend hitting up a store for some lint-free cloths and isopropyl alcohol. It's a small price to pay for keeping your CPU clean, especially if you're willing to invest in a good PC.

You could use vodka! Just make sure to completely clean off any residue after you're done.

Using kitchen paper might be a better option! If you have any glass cleaner on hand, you can spray a small amount on the paper to help lift the thermal paste more effectively. Just be careful with how much you use—better to go light than overdo it.

If you're in a pinch, anything that won't leave fibers behind can work, but tightly woven cloth tends to be the safest option! Just make sure you don’t leave any bits of paper or residue after you're done.