Create Your Own DIY Hand Sanitizer Spray to Keep Your Hands Clean

Remember the early days of the pandemic when hand sanitizer was a hot commodity? While those frantic times may be behind us, the importance of keeping our hands clean is more relevant than ever. Germs have always been a part of our lives, but the rise of COVID-19 has heightened our awareness of hygiene. Although washing your hands with soap and water remains the gold standard, a hand sanitizer spray is a convenient alternative for on-the-go cleanliness. And if you ever find yourself in a situation where stores run out of commercial sanitizers again, you can easily make your own at home.

You don’t need to be an expert in home crafts to create a fragrant hand sanitizer spray. If you’re looking for an easy, budget-friendly, and child-safe recipe, keep reading for a practical hand sanitizer spray you can whip up yourself.

A Hand Sanitizer Spray That’s Kid-Friendly

How can you ensure that your homemade hand sanitizer spray is both safe and effective for children? The key ingredient is rubbing alcohol. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), a hand sanitizer spray should contain at least 60 percent alcohol for optimal germ-killing power. However, you also need to be cautious about the scents you use, especially when working with essential oils. Some oils can be beneficial for kids, but it’s crucial to know how to use them properly, as children may have more adverse reactions than adults. Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil, distilled water, or lotion before applying. It’s wise to conduct a patch test by applying a small amount to the skin and waiting 24 hours to check for any reactions.

If you’re concerned that your child might accidentally ingest or lick the hand sanitizer, it’s best to spray it into their hands rather than directly on their skin. Also, store your spray bottles in a secure location out of reach of children.

DIY Hand Sanitizer Spray Recipe

Making your own scented hand sanitizer spray is a breeze. You’ll only need three ingredients: rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol), vegetable glycerin, and essential oils. The alcohol is what effectively sanitizes your hands, while glycerin (or aloe vera gel) helps keep your skin moisturized and prevents dryness. The essential oils add a pleasant scent and may even enhance the antibacterial properties of your homemade sanitizer, though they’re optional!

Here’s what you’ll need to create your own hand sanitizer spray. You can adjust the ratios, but remember to maintain at least 60 percent alcohol for effectiveness.

Antimicrobial Essential Oils:

Tea Tree
Eucalyptus
Peppermint (not for children under 30 months)
Lemongrass
Orange
Lavender
Cedarwood
Lemon

Supplies:

Two-thirds cup of 99 percent isopropyl alcohol
One-third cup of glycerin
20 drops of essential oil (optional)
Spray bottle
Funnel
Label

Instructions:

Pour the glycerin and essential oils into your spray bottle.
Fill the bottle nearly to the top with alcohol and secure the cap.
Shake well to combine all the ingredients.
Allow your mixture to sit for a minimum of 72 hours to ensure it effectively kills any bacteria that may have been introduced during mixing.
Shake again before use!

How Long Does Homemade Hand Sanitizer Spray Last?

Whether homemade or store-bought, hand sanitizer spray has a shelf life of about three years. Over time, if the alcohol content drops below 60 percent, it will be less effective at killing germs. However, some alcohol is better than none, so don’t toss it if it’s your only option!

Does Adding Witch Hazel to Hand Sanitizer Spray Kill Bacteria?

While witch hazel has its uses, it is not a disinfectant and won’t kill the bacteria or viruses on your hands. However, it may help with minor skin irritations.

Ingredients to Avoid in Homemade Hand Sanitizer

To ensure that your DIY hand sanitizer is kid-friendly, steer clear of the following ingredients:

Triclosan: Banned by the FDA in 2016 for use in soaps.
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-Propyl Alcohol: Dangerous if ingested or if it comes in contact with eyes or skin.

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In summary, crafting your own hand sanitizer spray can be an easy and enjoyable process. Just follow the recipe, ensure you use safe ingredients, and keep your little ones in mind. With this guide, you’ll be ready to keep those pesky germs at bay.

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