Can You Make Your Own Hand Sanitizer at Home?

The recent focus on hand sanitizers has sparked curiosity about how to create one at home. Many wonder if simply adding 91% rubbing alcohol to hand cream or lotion could suffice. However, the process involves more than just mixing a few ingredients due to the complex nature of hand sanitizers. This article delves into the intricacies of making hand sanitizer at home and provides practical advice.

Understanding the Ingredients of Hand Sanitizers

As a former marketing manager at a hand sanitizer manufacturer, I can share insights on the main components of hand sanitizers. Typically, the primary ingredients are pure ethanol and carbomer. Ethanol is the active ingredient responsible for killing germs, while carbomer serves as a thickening agent. You can create your own hand sanitizer by obtaining these two ingredients, although the effectiveness might differ from commercial products due to the lower quality of the homemade mixture.

The Importance of Alcohol Concentration

The effectiveness of hand sanitizers largely depends on the concentration of alcohol they contain. It is essential to achieve at least 70 percent alcohol content to prevent excessive drying of the skin. If you dilute the alcohol too much, it can lead to suboptimal results. For instance, applying hand cream after sanitizing your hands might reduce the alcohol's effectiveness, as the cream can absorb and lock in the alcohol, leaving your hands less protected.

Sanitization vs. Moisturization

Sanitizers are designed to eradicate germs on the skin instantly, and the alcohol evaporates quickly. However, this process does not provide lasting protection. After sanitizing, you may come into contact with new germs, defeating the purpose of sanitization. Therefore, hand sanitizers should only be used when soap and water are not readily available. Liquid or powdered soap effectively destroys viruses, including those that cause the Coronavirus, making them a safer and more effective option.

Creating a Working Home-Made Hand Sanitizer

While mixing alcohol and hand cream won't yield a functional hand sanitizer, it is possible to make a functional one at home. Here's how:

Visit a liquor store to purchase 60% alcohol: Ensure the alcohol is without sugar or flavor to maintain the integrity of the sanitizer. Add a touch of your favorite perfume: This adds a pleasant scent and can act as a preservative. Thoroughly mix the ingredients: Ensure the alcohol is well distributed throughout the mixture. Store in a safe container: Keep the homemade sanitizer in a clean, airtight container to maintain its effectiveness.

Remember, using homemade hand sanitizer is a temporary solution. It does not fully replace thorough hand washing, and its effectiveness may be compromised due to the lower alcohol concentration. Always aim for 60% alcohol concentration to ensure effective disinfection. If possible, use commercial hand sanitizers for maximum protection and efficacy.

Conclusion

While homemade hand sanitizers can be a useful alternative in emergency situations, they should not be considered a substitute for proper hand hygiene practices. Always prioritize thorough hand washing with soap and water when available. However, where soap and water are not accessible, a well-prepared homemade hand sanitizer can offer a basic level of protection against germs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use any type of alcohol to make hand sanitizer?

A: For hand sanitizers to be effective, the alcohol content should be at least 60%. Using a lower concentration can compromise its effectiveness. Opt for 60% alcohol to ensure it meets the minimum requirement for disinfection.

Q: What about using other ingredients like glycerin or aloe vera?

A: Adding ingredients like glycerin or aloe vera can enhance the moisturizing properties of your hand sanitizer but should not be the primary ingredient. These should be used in small quantities to prevent reducing the alcohol concentration below the necessary level.

Q: Can hand sanitizers be used to replace soap instead of being a complement?

A: Hand sanitizers should not replace thorough hand washing with soap and water. They can be used as a complement when hand washing is not feasible, but they should not be relied upon for all sanitation needs due to their limitations in effectiveness compared to soap and water.