When it’s hard to find store-bought hand sanitize, especially during the cold months, nothing could be easier than making your own Using basic ingredients. The active ingredient in this hand sanitizer recipe is the alcohol, which needs to comprise at least 60% of the product in order to be an effective disinfectant. You can customize its fragrance using essential oils, but not require.
2/3 cup 99% isopropyl rubbing alcohol or ethanol
1/3 cup aloe vera gel
(Optional) 8-10 drops essential oil (i.e., lavender, vanilla, peppermint, grapefruit)
A recycled liquid soap or hand sanitizer container
Medium mixing bowl, mixing spoon, small funnel
Prep: 5 min Ready: 5 min Serves: 1 cup
1. Thoroughly clean the recycled container and allow it to air dry before using.
2. Mix the aloe gel and isopropyl alcohol together in medium bowl.
3. If preferred, add 8-10 drops of essential oil to customize its fragrance. Stir to combine.
4. Use a funnel to pour the mixture into the container.
5. Securely attach the lid/pump onto the container and you're ready to go.
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends cleaning your hands with soap and water whenever possible (and always when your hands are visibly soiled). Hand sanitizer can be used in addition to this or when washing isn't an option. Hand sanitizer can help kill microbes, but it isn't effective on all germs and will do nothing for other substances that may be on your hands.
Use Sanitizer when you can't wash with soap and water. You want to use as additional protection after washing hands. Don't use Sanitizer in place of washing with soap and water or when your hands are visibly soiled.