Which Liquids May be Used for Netilas Yadayim?
The only liquid that may be used to wash one’s hands for a meal is water; this is particularly so according to Kabbalah. Seltzer and carbonated unflavored drinks are regarded as regular water, and may be used lechatchilah (in the first instance). Beshaas hadchak (in a desperate situation), if there is no water available, other liquids may be used, but only if they are primarily water-based, such as coffee, tea, and soft drinks. However, there are those poskim who rule that the brachah of “al netilas yadayim” should not be said if washing with a liquid other than water. Liquids that are not water-based, such as wine, milk, or fruit juices should not be used under any circumstances. #380
ג״ז בגליון משולחן הבד״צ גל׳ יב, בהלכות לימי הקיץ, ובהע׳ 61 ואילך. ומשם תדרשנו.