Published on March 15th, 2020 | by The Perfume Expert
DIY Hand Sanitizer
STOP: You’ve probably been using hand sanitizer wrong! Help prevent Covid-19 with this DIY hand sanitizer safe enough for your family
Before we get to the recipe, it’s crucial that you understand that using hand sanitizer is not a substitute for washing your hands. It is fine to use if you are not near a washroom/sink, are in a rush, or in transit, but washing your hands for 20 seconds with soap and water is still the best way to protect yourself from contagious viruses.
But it’s worth mentioning that most of us are using hand sanitizers all wrong!
We generally squirt a few drops into the palm of our hand, do a quick rub, and in less than 5 seconds the liquid has evaporated and we feel germ-free and proud of our cleanliness.
But this is NOT the correct way to use an antibac and will, in fact, do little to protect yourself!
The correct way to use a hand sanitizer is to use at least 3ml of hand sanitizer/antibacterial gel and rub your hands together for at least 25 seconds. Similar to hand washing at a sink.
With mass shortages of antibacterial lotion and hand sanitizers, it’s a great idea to create your own. Not only is it economical but it’s also more natural and safe to use on older children. (please do not use alcohol based sanitizers on children under 2)
Here is my favourite recipe for DIY Hand Sanitizer:
[The World Health Organization recommends an alcohol percentage of at least 70% is best for killing viruses. 99% alcohol is ideal but the downside of using alcohol is that it can be drying to the skin. Combining it with a moisturizer such as aloe vera and glycerine will help remedy this.]
DIY Hand Sanitizer Recipe
- 1 tablespoon rubbing alcohol at least 70% (99% is preferred)
- 2 tablespoons aloe vera gel (buy on Amazon HERE in the US and HERE in CA)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin (buy on Amazon HERE in the US and HERE in CA)
- 4 drops Tea Tree (optional)
- 3 drops Lemon (optional)
- 3 drops Lavender (optional)
- 2 oz flip-top container (buy on Amazon HERE in the US and HERE in CA)
Instructions
- Combine alcohol, aloe vera gel, and vegetable glycerin in a shallow bowl
- Mix to combine.
- Add essential oils if desired and stir.
- Use a funnel to pour into a flip-top container
The above recipe uses 100% PURE Essential Oils that are known for their antibacterial and antiviral properties. These are optional. Additional oils that are useful are a combination of Cinnamon, Clove, and Eucalyptus (these oils sometimes come in a blend such as Young Living’s Thieves. To find out more about these essential oils go HERE).
[Just a note that this recipe is not commercial grade nor has it been clinically tested to ensure that 100% of viruses are killed during use so please use this recipe at your own discretion. This is only a tip to help prevent the spread of germs not a guaranteed solution or cure.]