Want to make your own hand sanitizer with safe, effective ingredients that you can easily pronounce? Can’t say we blame you.
Read on for two simple, all-natural recipes that work (and smell) great!
When to use hand sanitizer
As you have probably heard from at least one well-meaning friend or family member, a little bacteria can actually be a good thing—it helps boost the immune system! So, there is no need to sanitize your hands every time you encounter a bit of dirt.
However, there are certain times when you should definitely wash your hands, including:
- Before, during and after food preparation
- Before and after tending to someone who is sick
- Before and after treating a wound
- After changing diapers or using the restroom
- After coughing, sneezing or blowing your nose
- After handling pets, pet food or pet waste
- After handling garbage
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), washing your hands with old fashioned soap and water “is the best way to reduce the number of microbes on them in most situations.”
But hand sanitizer is a good backup on those occasions when you are in a hurry or simply don’t have access to a sink.
How to use hand sanitizer
Believe it or not, there is a proper way to use hand sanitizer. Here’s how to do it right:
- Apply a dime-sized amount of sanitizer to the palm of your hand.
- Rub your hands together, taking care to cover all surfaces—front and back.
- Continue rubbing until sanitizer is completely absorbed.
Benefits of making your own hand sanitizer
Making your own hand sanitizer has numerous benefits, including:
- You know—and control—exactly what goes into it. You won’t have to be wary of potentially harmful chemicals, often labeled as “fragrance.”
- You can choose whatever scent(s) you desire. Ward off germs while enjoying a little aromatherapy!
- You can use moisturizing ingredients, like aloe vera gel, so it won’t dry out your hands—a common complaint about store-bought sanitizers!
- You can use the leftover ingredients in other DIY beauty treatments.
- You’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you made it yourself.
4-ingredient hand sanitizer recipe
Recommended for adults, this stronger version is reminiscent of commercial hand sanitizers (without any potentially hazardous chemicals, of course!). It’s a great option for healthcare workers.
Ingredients
1 Tbsp. rubbing alcohol (91% or greater)
1/8 cup vegetable glycerin
1/4 cup organic aloe vera gel
Approximately 15 drops essential oil (we recommend peppermint, lavender or sweet orange)
Directions: In blender or food processor, blend all ingredients on high for approximately two minutes. Store your DIY sanitizer in a small jar or silicon tube (for up to six months). Use as needed to send germs packing!
Whichever recipe you choose to follow, remember to use your hand sanitizer sparingly and keep it out of reach of small children!
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