With cold and flu season always around the corner, having a simple homemade hand sanitizer on hand can bring so much peace of mind, especially if you are trying to reduce harsh chemicals used around your home.
I recall the time when I was putting in a curbside order, and searched for hand sanitizer because my children were sick with a cold. I remember thinking… why am I buying this when I could probably make it for a fraction of the cost and know what I am putting onto our skin. It was a no brainer. There began my journey and my first homemade sanitizer, and I have been making it ever since.
Why Make Homemade Hand Sanitizer
Homemade hand sanitizer isn’t about being OCD. Its about having an extra recipe under your belt for when you really need it. It is about knowing exactly what you are putting into the products that you and your family uses, and if you are like me I just enjoy having the knowledge of how to do things myself without the help of someone else.
When you make it yourself you can:
- Know exactly whats in it
- Avoid unnecessary fillers and dyes
- Customize the scent (or keep it unscented)
- Make it in small batches as needed
- Feel confident you have a back up option at home
This is especially useful to keep in a diaper bag, a purse, the car, the office, or in a travel kit.
Important Note:
For the hand sanitizer to be effective, the sanitizer needs to contain 60% alcohol to kill germs.
Ingredients and supplies you will need
You will only need a few simple ingredients:
- Isopropyl alcohol (91% or higher) or ethanol (95%)
- Aloe vera gel (you can also use glycerin)
- Essential oil (optional) for scent (like lavender or tea tree)
- A bowl
- A spoon or whisk
- A clean bottle (pump or squeeze bottle works best)
Isopropyl alcohol can be purchased in the medical sections of stores. I purchase mine in bulk from the local farm and feed store. I make a lot of products using alcohol, check out this all-purpose cleaning spray to help with sanitizing and cleaning your home!
How to make Homemade Hand Sanitizer Step-By Step
- Pour the alcohol into a bowl
Measure carefully—this is where the sanitizing power comes from. - Add the aloe vera gel
This helps protect your skin, aids in moisturizing, and gives the sanitizer its gel consistency. (or glycerin and water if you choose that instead) - Add essential oils (optional)
10–15 drops is plenty. This is purely for scent—not sanitizing. Though certain essential oils aid in fighting germs like lavender. (Read all about The Benefits of Lavender.) - Mix thoroughly
Stir slowly but completely until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Transfer to your bottle
Use a funnel if needed and label the bottle clearly.
That’s it. You’re done.
How to Use Homemade Hand Sanitizer
- Use a quarter-sized amount or a good squirt of the liquid.
- Rub over all surfaces of your hands
- Continue rubbing until completely dry
- Do not wipe off
And remember—handwashing with soap and water is always best when you are able to.
Being Prepared With the Small Things
Knowing how to make hand sanitizer in a pinch is one of those small useful recipes that will always come in handy. I discovered it when all of my children were sick at the same time. Stores are about 30 minutes away and in that moment I couldn’t lug 4 kids to a store.
After I made this recipe, I was the only one in the house that didn’t get sick with that illness. Coincidence? I will never know. However, I used this recipe consistently.
Homemade Hand Sanitizer
Ingredients
Equipment
Notes
Helpful Tips for Homemade Hand Sanitizer
When making your own hand sanitizer, a few simple tips can help ensure it works well and stays safe to use. Always start with clean tools and containers to avoid introducing bacteria into your mixture. Using a small funnel when pouring your sanitizer into bottles can also help prevent spills and keep everything tidy.
If you plan to carry your sanitizer with you throughout the day, consider using small travel bottles that fit easily into a purse, diaper bag, or car console. Clear bottles also make it easier to see when you are running low so you can make another batch before you run out.
Finally, remember that while hand sanitizer is convenient, washing hands with soap and water is always the best option when it is available.
How to Store and Use Your Hand Sanitizer
Proper storage will help your homemade hand sanitizer stay effective for longer. Keep your sanitizer in a sealed container and store it in a cool place away from direct sunlight or heat. Small pump bottles or squeeze bottles work especially well for everyday use.
This sanitizer is perfect to keep near your entryway, in your vehicle, or inside a bag for errands and travel. Having a bottle nearby makes it easy to clean your hands quickly when soap and water aren’t available.
Like many simple DIY solutions around the home, making your own sanitizer allows you to stay prepared while using ingredients you trust.
Common Questions About Homemade Hand Sanitizer
Can I use glycerin instead of aloe vera?
Yes, glycerin can be used as a moisturizing ingredient in place of aloe vera. Glycerin helps keep the sanitizer from drying out your hands and gives the mixture a smoother feel. If using glycerin, only a small amount is needed since too much can make the sanitizer overly sticky.
How long does homemade hand sanitizer last?
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Does homemade hand sanitizer work as well as store-bought?
Homemade hand sanitizer can be effective when made with the correct ratio of alcohol. Alcohol is the active ingredient that helps kill germs, so it is important to keep the alcohol content high enough for the sanitizer to work properly.
Can I add essential oils?
Essential oils can be added for scent if you like, but they are optional. If you choose to add them, only use a few drops. They do not replace the need for alcohol in the sanitizer mixture.
When should I use hand sanitizer instead of washing my hands?
Hand sanitizer is useful when soap and water are not available, such as when you are traveling, running errands, or away from home. When possible, washing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is still the best option.
Now that you know how easy it is to make your own hand sanitizer, you might find yourself reaching for simple DIY solutions more often. If you enjoy practical homemaking ideas like this, be sure to explore the other recipes and home solutions here that help make daily life a little simpler. Try out DIY all purpose cleaner.
