Homemade Hand Sanitizer
Making your own hand sanitizer is a great alternative to store bought options and it’s a fun DIY project! Remember, though, that regular handwashing with soap and water is essential for removing all types of germs - hand sanitizer is a helpful backup but not a full substitute.
Hand Sanitizer Recipes
To make your own hand sanitizer, you'll only need a few ingredients:
- Rubbing Alcohol (Isopropyl Alcohol: 70% or 91%)
- Aloe Vera Gel
- Essential Oil (optional for scent)
Recipe 1: Hand Sanitizer with 70% Rubbing Alcohol
- 1/2 cup 70 percent Rubbing Alcohol
- 2 teaspoons Aloe Vera Gel
Recipe 2: Hand Sanitizer with 91% Rubbing Alcohol
- 1/2 cup 91 percent Rubbing Alcohol
- 5 teaspoons Aloe Vera Gel
Instructions for Making Hand Sanitizer
- In a bowl, combine the rubbing alcohol and aloe vera gel until thoroughly mixed.
- (Optional) Add a few drops of essential oil, like spearmint, wintergreen, clove, or lavender for a pleasant scent.
- Pour the mixture into a clean container using a funnel and label it clearly.
How to Use Your Hand Sanitizer Effectively
When using hand sanitizer, keep these points in mind:
- Spray or apply the sanitizer to the palm of one hand.
- Rub your hands together thoroughly, covering all surfaces of your hands, fingers and in between fingers.
- Continue rubbing for at least 20 seconds or until your hands are dry. It may take at least 60 seconds to kill most germs.
Homemade Hand Sanitizer Safety
- Ensure the rubbing alcohol is at least 70 percent for effective germ-killing.
- Aloe Vera helps prevent skin from drying out. If needed, glycerin or a small amount of water can substitute but won’t be as moisturizing.
- Essential oils are optional for fragrance and may add some antimicrobial benefits.
Homemade hand sanitizer should only be considered in situations when you don’t have access to soap and water for an extended period.
Using Incorrect Ingredients or Proportions
Using incorrect ingredients or the wrong proportions can reduce effectiveness - the hand sanitizer may not adequately reduce the risk of exposure to some or all microbes.
Young children should only use hand sanitizers when an adult is around.
Effectiveness of Hand Sanitizer
According to the CDC, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with sufficient alcohol content can quickly reduce the number of microbes on your hands and can help destroy many pathogens. However, keep in mind, even effective hand sanitizers don’t kill all types of germs.
Sanitizers may also be less effective if hands are visibly dirty or greasy. In these cases, handwashing is preferred.
Handwashing vs. Hand Sanitizer
Knowing when to wash your hands and when to use hand sanitizer is essential to protect yourself from illnesses like colds, and the flu.
Handwashing with soap and water is preferable whenever possible. Use hand sanitizer only if soap and water are unavailable.
Always wash your hands:
- After using the restroom.
- After coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose.
- Before eating.
- After touching potentially contaminated surfaces.
The Best Way to Wash Your Hands
These are the recommended steps for effective handwashing:
- Use clean, running water (warm or cold).
- Wet your hands and apply soap.
- Rub hands with soap for at least 20 seconds, covering the back of hands, between fingers, and under nails.
- Rinse with running water and dry with a clean towel or air dry.
In Summary
Hand sanitizer is a convenient way to prevent germ spread when you don’t have access to soap and water. Alcohol-based sanitizers can reduce pathogens but should not replace handwashing.
If hand sanitizer is unavailable, you can make it with rubbing alcohol, aloe vera gel, and essential oil. However, it is recommended that handwashing is the most reliable method for keeping hands free from harmful germs and viruses. Store in your purse, desk or wherever you would use it most.
