Just an idea.
So I read here that alum isn't soluble in alcohol.
I don't know about you, but I'm trying to be very aware of alum-block-handling practices, because such at block might last for a long time, and it's such a multipurpose tool. I use it for nicks, razor-burn, irritation of the skin, deodorant, wounds/scrapes, mosquito bites etc etc..
How about finding a small jar with a lid, and put some ethanol into it. This would probably be practical because the ethanol evaporates quickly, and one would not have to dry the water off after use.
What are your thoughts? Is this a horrible idea?