How to Make Homemade Antibacterial Hand Sanitizers: A Safe and Eco-Friendly Guide

Antibacterial hand sanitizers play a critical role in today's world, especially amid health scares such as the coronavirus pandemic. However, commercial sanitizers often contain harsh chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin. In this article, we will explore two methods to create your own safe and natural hand sanitizers, ensuring that they are gentle on your skin and effective against germs.

Method 1: Isopropyl Alcohol and Aloe Vera Gel Hand Sanitizer

Creating an effective hand sanitizer is relatively simple. Here's what you need:

2/3 cup of 91% isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol 1/3 cup aloe vera gel A mixing bowl A spoon An empty container, such as a 3-ounce container from a travel toiletries kit A small piece of masking tape for labeling A pen or pencil for writing the label

Here's how to make it:

In a mixing bowl, stir the isopropyl alcohol and aloe vera gel together until well blended. Pour the homemade hand sanitizer into the empty container and seal it. Write "hand sanitizer" on a piece of masking tape and affix it to the bottle. Close the lid on the bottle to complete the process.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content. This recipe has a 60.66% alcohol content, so it is crucial to follow the proportions exactly.

Source: Coronavirus prevention: How to make hand sanitizer at home. The Oregonian, March 1, 2020.

Method 2: Fitkari Alum, Glycerine, and Essential Oils Hand Sanitizer

For those looking for a more natural and gentle option, consider this DIY hand sanitizer recipe. It is particularly suitable for those with sensitive skin as it uses natural ingredients that provide antibacterial properties and nourish the skin. Here's what you need:

Fitkari alum Glycerine Water Essential oils (mild, antibacterial varieties are recommended) A small bottle

Here's how to make it:

Begin by mixing fitkari alum, glycerine, and water in a pot and heating it to a boil. Stir the mixture occasionally to ensure even heating. Once the mixture has boiled, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Once it has cooled, add a few drops of your chosen essential oils for fragrance and antibacterial properties. Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure the essential oils are well distributed. Transfer the mixture into a small bottle using a funnel. Your DIY hand sanitizer is now ready for use. Label it appropriately with a piece of masking tape and pen or pencil.

This method not only provides a highly effective solution against germs but also nourishes the skin, preventing dryness and irritation often associated with alcohol-based sanitizers.

Key Ingredients and Their Benefits

Isopropyl Alcohol: This powerful disinfectant has a high alcohol content, making it an effective antibacterial agent. It can quickly kill a wide range of germs and is commonly used in hand sanitizers.

Aloe Vera Gel: Known for its soothing and moisturizing properties, aloe vera gel helps to soothe irritation and nourish the skin, making it gentle on sensitive skin types.

Fitkari Alum: This natural mineral has antibacterial properties and is commonly used in traditional skincare practices. It's also gentle on the skin and can help to maintain skin health.

Glycerine: A humectant, glycerine helps to moisturize the skin and prevent dryness. It's an excellent ingredient for minimizing skin irritation while providing protection against bacteria.

Essential Oils: Essential oils such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, and eucalyptus oil not only add fragrance but also have potent antibacterial properties, making them a safe and effective addition to your homemade hand sanitizer.

Conclusion

Creating your own hand sanitizer is a simple and efficient way to maintain hygiene during outbreaks or regular day-to-day activities. Whether you choose the alcohol-based or the natural fitkari-based recipe, both methods provide safe and effective options. By using the right ingredients, you can ensure that your hands are protected from germs while maintaining skin health.