Create Your Own Hand Sanitizer Spray to Keep Your Hands Germ-Free

At home insemination kit

Remember when we all rushed to buy hand sanitizer at the start of the pandemic? While those initial frantic days may be behind us, the importance of maintaining clean hands remains ever relevant. Germs have always been a part of our daily lives, but the concerns surrounding the coronavirus have heightened our awareness of cleanliness. Although washing hands with soap and water is the most effective method for germ eradication, hand sanitizer sprays offer a convenient alternative. They are portable and easy to use, ensuring you have a germ-busting solution at your fingertips wherever you go.

And if stores happen to run low on your favorite brand again, you can easily whip up your own hand sanitizer spray at home. Don’t worry, you don’t need to have gourmet cooking skills to create a delightful liquid hand sanitizer spray. If you’ve been curious about making a simple, cost-effective, and kid-safe sanitizer, keep reading for a straightforward recipe.

Kid-Friendly Hand Sanitizer Spray Recipe

Wondering if your homemade hand sanitizer spray is safe and effective for children? It’s crucial to include rubbing alcohol. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an alcohol content of at least 60 percent is necessary for optimal effectiveness. Be mindful of the essential oils you choose; while some are beneficial, they must be used with caution around children who may react differently than adults. Always dilute essential oils in a carrier solution, and perform a patch test on a small area of skin before widespread application.

If you’re concerned about your little one being tempted to lick or ingest the hand sanitizer, it’s best to spray it directly onto their hands, and make sure to store the bottles out of reach.

DIY Hand Sanitizer Spray Ingredients

Creating your own scented hand sanitizer spray is simple and requires just three ingredients: rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol), vegetable glycerin, and optional essential oils. The rubbing alcohol is essential for disinfecting, while glycerin (or aloe vera gel) helps hydrate your hands and prevent dryness. Adding essential oils not only enhances the fragrance but can even boost the antibacterial properties of your sanitizer. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Antimicrobial Essential Oils:
  • Tea Tree
  • Eucalyptus
  • Peppermint (avoid for children under 30 months)
  • Lemongrass
  • Orange
  • Lavender
  • Cedarwood
  • Lemon
• Supplies:
  • Two-thirds cup of 99% isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol)
  • One-third cup of glycerin
  • 20 drops of essential oil (optional)
  • Spray bottle
  • Funnel
  • Label

Directions:

1. Combine the glycerin and essential oils in your spray bottle.
2. Pour in the rubbing alcohol until the bottle is almost full.
3. Cap the bottle and shake well to mix all ingredients.
4. Allow the mixture to sit for at least 72 hours to ensure any bacteria from the mixing process are eliminated.
5. Shake before each use and enjoy!

How Long Does Homemade Hand Sanitizer Last?

Whether homemade or store-bought, hand sanitizer has a shelf life of about three years. Over time, if the alcohol content drops below 60%, its effectiveness diminishes. It’s important to note that while some alcohol content is better than none, it’s best to use fresh sanitizer whenever possible.

Does Witch Hazel Kill Bacteria?

While witch hazel has a distinct scent reminiscent of alcohol and is often used as a facial cleanser, it is not a disinfectant and won’t effectively kill bacteria or viruses on surfaces. However, it can be helpful for reducing inflammation or skin irritation.

Ingredients to Avoid in Your Hand Sanitizer:

To keep your DIY hand sanitizer safe for kids, steer clear of these harmful ingredients:

• Triclosan: Banned by the FDA in 2016 due to safety concerns.
• Fragrance: Can trigger allergies or asthma in sensitive individuals.
• Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: May cause skin irritation.
• Artificial Dyes: Often derived from petroleum and can lead to allergic reactions.
• 1-Propanol: This substance poses health risks if ingested or applied improperly.

For more information about home insemination and similar topics, check out this article on home insemination kits and visit Make a Mom for authoritative insights. For a deeper understanding of intrauterine insemination, see this excellent resource from Healthline.

Summary:

Making your own hand sanitizer spray is not only simple but also allows you to customize it to your preferences. By using rubbing alcohol, glycerin, and optional essential oils, you can create a portable and kid-safe sanitizer. Just remember to keep the alcohol content high for effectiveness and avoid harmful ingredients.

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