These days, it’s hard to come by hand sanitizer and other high-demand disinfectant products. While handwashing is always the best method for removing illness-causing germs, hand sanitizer is great in a pinch if a sink isn’t available. Fortunately, it’s easy to make your own hand sanitizer with just a few ingredients, so don’t freak out if it’s still out at the grocery store. Make your own…
How to make it
Step 1 – Get your ingredients
2 Parts 99% isopropyl alcohol
1 Part aloe vera gel
(optional) a few drops of essential oils for scent*
*Only use essential oils that are safe to use on skin, always read application labels before using
Step 2 – Mix your ingredients
Properly sanitize your working space with a diluted bleach solution and wash your hands thoroughly before mixing your ingredients. Use a clean bowl and utensils to mix your ingredients until fully combined. Do not touch the sanitizer mixture with your hands until it is ready to use.
Step 3 – Storage
Transfer your sanitizer mixture to a container that can be tightly sealed. Store in an area that is not accessible by children, and is away from heat and flames.
Using rubbing alcohol with a minimum of 99% alcohol content will result in your sanitizer mixture being at least 60% alcohol-based, which is necessary for effective sanitization use. While there are other methods of making hand sanitizer, be sure to thoroughly research the effectiveness, quantity and type of ingredients before making and using other sanitizer recipes.
Making Your Own Disinfectant Spray
In addition to making your own hand sanitizer, you can make your own disinfectant spray with bleach to use on hard, nonporous surfaces. Always follow proper mixing guidelines for bleach-to-water ratios for the type of product you are using for safe application.
Safety and Precautions
It is important to note that sanitizer is not as effective if your hands are dirty or covered in grease or grime, so washing your hands should always be your first course of action. Improper sanitizer ingredients or inaccurate quantities can lead to skin irritation or burns.
Homemade hand sanitizer is only recommended for situations when you are unable to wash your hands or purchase pre-made sanitizer. It is not recommended for children as it can be used improperly and can lead to injury. Sanitizer is for external use only and should not be ingested, nor should any disinfectant product.
For more information, the CDC provides a number of helpful resources on how and when to use hand sanitizers.
