Create Your Own Aloe Vera Hand Sanitizer and Say Goodbye to Rubbing Alcohol Odors

In the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, hand sanitizer has become an essential item in our daily lives. Its importance is undeniable, and it’s likely that many of you have faced challenges finding your preferred brands due to ongoing supply issues. If you’re looking to take matters into your own hands, why not try crafting a soothing hand sanitizer with aloe vera? It’s a simple DIY project that can help keep your hands clean without the harsh scent of rubbing alcohol.

DIY Aloe Vera Hand Sanitizer

Making hand sanitizer with aloe vera is quite easy. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredients:

Two parts 99% isopropyl (rubbing) alcohol
One part aloe vera gel or fresh aloe from a plant
Optional: Essential oils of your choice (like lemon juice for a fresh scent)
Funnel
Container with a lid (bottle or jar)
Whisk
Mixing bowl

Instructions:

Preparation: Begin by cleaning the area where you’ll be making your hand sanitizer. Wipe surfaces with disinfectant wipes or spray them down.
Mixing: In a mixing bowl, combine the rubbing alcohol and aloe vera. Use a clean whisk to mix them until they are well blended. If using fresh aloe, a blender may be necessary for a smooth consistency.
Adding Scent: Your mixture may still carry a strong alcohol smell. To counteract this, add a few drops of essential oils—sweet orange and clove are great options. Many essential oils also offer natural disinfectant properties.
Final Blend: Whisk the mixture again to ensure the oils are fully incorporated.
Storage: Use a funnel and spoon to pour your sanitizer into an airtight container. If you’re feeling creative, consider labeling your container for a personal touch.

Alcohol-Free Alternative?

If you’re not fond of the strong smell or the drying effect of alcohol, you might be seeking an alternative. However, it’s important to note that per CDC guidelines, hand sanitizers must contain at least 60% alcohol to effectively eliminate germs. Mixing aloe vera reduces the alcohol concentration, so starting with 99% alcohol results in a sanitizer with about 65% alcohol after combining with aloe. For those using 70% alcohol, be sure to adjust your measurements accordingly to maintain effectiveness.

The Benefits of Aloe Vera

One of the advantages of using aloe vera is its safety compared to traditional alcohol-based sanitizers. Not only is aloe vera safe to ingest, but it also boasts numerous health benefits, like reducing blood sugar levels and enhancing skin health.

Extra Aloe? Try These Cleaners!

If you have leftover aloe vera, consider making a surface cleaner. Here’s a simple recipe:

½ cup baking soda
½ cup liquid soap
15 drops of rosemary or tea tree oil
1 teaspoon aloe vera gel

Mix these ingredients in a jar, adding aloe to maintain moisture. This scrub is perfect for cleaning tubs and sinks.

For wooden surfaces, create a cleaner with:

Water
Vinegar
Olive oil
Aloe vera
Essential oils

This natural concoction will help you keep your furniture and floors shining.

For more tips on DIY projects and home care, check out this blog post and consider visiting Make a Mom’s Cryobaby at Home Insemination Kit for expert insights on home insemination. Additionally, Mount Sinai offers valuable resources for those navigating pregnancy and fertility.

Potential Search Queries:

Summary:

Making your own hand sanitizer with aloe vera is a straightforward and beneficial project that allows you to avoid the strong scent of rubbing alcohol while keeping your hands clean. This DIY guide provides easy steps and alternative recipes for using aloe vera, ensuring your home remains germ-free and fresh.