How to Make Hand Sanitizer with 96% Lab Grade Ethanol

Making hand sanitizer at home can be a practical solution during the times when access to store-bought options is limited. This guide will walk you through the process of creating hand sanitizer using lab grade 96% ethanol, one of the key ingredients. We will also explore the importance of proper ingredients and safety measures.

Ingredients and Equipment Needed

To make your own hand sanitizer using 96% lab grade ethanol, you will need:

96% lab grade ethanol Water Aloe vera gel (optional but recommended) Essential oil (optional for fragrance) Funnel A clean, dry container (preferably amber for UV protection)

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these simple steps to create your own effective hand sanitizer:

Measure and Combine: Start by measuring 65 ml of your 96% lab grade ethanol. It’s important to use lab grade alcohol as lower grades may not be as effective against germs. Add Water: Add 35 ml of distilled water to the ethanol. This will dilute the solution to approximately 70% alcohol content, which is considered most effective for hand sanitization. Optional Aloe Addition: If you prefer, you can add aloe vera gel to soothe the skin. A common ratio is to mix 1 part aloe vera gel with 3 parts alcohol solution. This can help to lessen any harshness and protect your skin from the drying effects of the alcohol. Essential Oils: For a pleasant scent, you can add a few drops of essential oils such as lavender, tea tree, or lemon. Ensure that the oils are suitable for incidental skin contact and not intended for internal consumption. Combine Thoroughly: Use a funnel to pour the mixture into a clean, dry container. Seal the container tightly. Label and Store: Clearly label the container with the contents and date. Store in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight and heat.

Important Considerations

When working with 96% lab grade ethanol, it’s important to follow these safety tips:

Wear protective gloves and goggles to avoid skin or eye contact. Ventilate the area to prevent inhalation of fumes. Do not consume the alcohol as it is highly poisonous if ingested. Avoid using non-food grade materials for mixing or storing the sanitizer.

For detailed instructions and additional tips, you can refer to this guide, which provides a comprehensive “how-to” on making top quality hand sanitizer at home for less than $2.00. The article also includes helpful advice and troubleshooting tips for those looking to make their own sanitizer.

Get Creative with Your Hand Sanitizer

If you have pure drinking ethanol, here’s a fun experiment. Equal parts of your ethanol and water can make homemade vodka rather than hand sanitizer. However, please be cautious and do not ingest it. This is purely for the fun of experimenting and not for consumption.

Remember, while making your own hand sanitizer can be a valuable resource, it’s essential to prioritize safety and quality. Always use lab grade ethanol and follow all safety precautions to ensure the effectiveness and safety of your homemade hand sanitizer.