How to Make Hand Sanitizers: The Right Way

Note: It's crucial to understand the dangers of mixing hydrogen peroxide and isopropyl alcohol or ethyl alcohol. This article aims to provide safe and effective methods for creating hand sanitizers, without risking health or safety.

Understanding the Ingredients

Both hydrogen peroxide (HO?) and rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol or ethyl alcohol) are commonly used in cleaning and disinfecting applications. However, they are not interchangeable, and mixing them can be hazardous.

Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide is a strong oxidant that is available in 3% concentration at pharmacies. This concentration is suitable for cleaning infected wounds. It is an antiseptic and can help dissolve necrotic tissue, which is a breeding ground for bacteria.

Unfortunately, due to its harsh nature, using hydrogen peroxide as a hand sanitizer daily can be detrimental to the skin. It is more suitable for medical and wound care applications rather than frequent, everyday use.

Rubbing Alcohol

Rubbing alcohol, which is typically isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol), should have a concentration of about 70%. Ethyl alcohol (ethanol), if used, should have a concentration of about 60%. These concentrations are optimal for effectively killing a wide range of microorganisms.

The Science Behind Effective Hand Sanitizing

While hydrogen peroxide and rubbing alcohol each have their uses, they are both effective individually. However, mixing them is not recommended and can be dangerous. For hand sanitizers, a blend of at least 60% alcohol is considered the optimal concentration to effectively kill viruses and bacteria.

My Recent Hand Sanitizer Recipe

For the homemade hand sanitizer I recently made, the ingredients included hydrogen peroxide, methylated spirits (denatured alcohol), rose water, glycerin, and borax. Aloe Vera gel was added for moisturizing. While I can't recall the exact quantities, the proportion was dominated by the alcohol, followed by water, rose water, and Aloe Vera gel.

Essential oils can be added for scent, although this is optional.

Why Not Mix Peroxide and Rubbing Alcohol?

Chemical Reactions

Mixing peroxide and rubbing alcohol can lead to undesirable chemical reactions. Hydrogen peroxide decomposes into water and oxygen, and when combined with alcohol, it may produce harmful gases and generate heat, which can irritate the skin.

Health Risks

The caustic nature of concentrated hydrogen peroxide means it can be harsh on the skin and other tissues. Mixing it with rubbing alcohol does not negate these risks; it merely adds another layer of potential hazard.

Handling concentrated hydrogen peroxide (more than 3% concentration) requires strict safety precautions and should be left to qualified chemists in a controlled environment.

Safe and Effective Homemade Hand Sanitizer Recipe

Given the risks, it's best to rely on commercially available hand sanitizers unless you are a qualified chemist in a controlled laboratory setting. Here is a simple and safe recipe for a homemade hand sanitizer that does not involve mixing hydrogen peroxide and rubbing alcohol:

Ingredients:

89% Isopropyl Alcohol (disinfectant) 10% Water 1% Optional Essential Oils (optional for scent) 0.5% Optional Aloe Vera Gel (optional for added moisturizing)

Steps:

Measure and mix 89 parts isopropyl alcohol with 10 parts water in a clean container. Optional: Add 1 part essential oils and 0.5 parts aloe vera gel for scent and moisturizing. Thoroughly mix the ingredients until well blended. Pack the mixture into an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place.

Important Notes

Always wear personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and glasses when handling any chemical substances. Follow the instructions provided, and store the hand sanitizer out of reach of children and pets.

Conclusion

Creating a hand sanitizer requires a careful balance of ingredients for both effectiveness and safety. While mixing hydrogen peroxide and rubbing alcohol may seem like a good idea, it can lead to hazardous chemical reactions and potential skin irritation. Commercially available hand sanitizers, with the proper ester concentrations, are safe and effective options.

Remember, safety should always come first. If you are unsure about the proper handling of any chemicals, seek professional advice and guidance.

Related Keywords: hand sanitizer, peroxide, rubbing alcohol