How to Make Your Own Hand Sanitizer

Make Your Own Hand Sanitizer: It's Easier Than You Think!

Hey there! We all need hand sanitizer these days, right? Store-bought stuff can be pricey and sometimes has ingredients you might not want on your skin. So, why not make your own? It’s surprisingly simple!

Why DIY Hand Sanitizer?

There are a few good reasons to ditch the store-bought stuff and make your own. First, you control the ingredients. No harsh chemicals or weird fragrances! This is especially important if you have sensitive skin. Second, it's way cheaper in the long run. And third? It's easy! Seriously.

What You'll Need: The Essential Ingredients

You'll need just a few things. The main stars are isopropyl alcohol (that's the germ-killer) and a moisturizer (because alcohol can dry out your skin). Let's break it down:

1. Isopropyl Alcohol (Isopropanol): This is the magic ingredient. You need at least 60% for it to work. More is better, but don't go over 90%—it'll dry your hands out. Important: Use isopropyl alcohol, not rubbing alcohol. Rubbing alcohol often has extra stuff added.
2. Moisturizer: This is key to keeping your hands from feeling like sandpaper. Aloe vera gel is great, or you can use glycerin, or even a little of your favorite lotion. I like aloe vera—it's so soothing!
3. Optional: Essential Oils: Want your sanitizer to smell nice? Add a few drops of your favorite essential oil, like tea tree, lavender, or eucalyptus. But test a tiny bit on your skin first, just in case.

Let's Make Some Sanitizer! (Easy Recipes)

Here are a few recipes. They're all pretty similar, just adjust to your preferences. Remember, that 60% alcohol is the key!

Recipe 1: The Basic Sanitizer

• 2/3 cup (150ml) Isopropyl Alcohol (99%)
• 1/3 cup (75ml) Aloe Vera Gel

Instructions:

1. Mix the alcohol and aloe vera in a clean container.
2. Stir it up until it's all smooth.
3. Pour it into a clean bottle (a spray bottle or pump bottle works well).
4. Label it clearly with what's inside and the date you made it.

Recipe 2: Fancy Sanitizer with Essential Oils

• 2/3 cup (150ml) Isopropyl Alcohol (99%)
• 1/3 cup (75ml) Aloe Vera Gel
• 5-10 drops of your favorite essential oil

Instructions:

1. Follow steps 1-3 from Recipe 1.
2. Add your essential oil(s) after you've mixed the alcohol and aloe vera.
3. Mix well again.
4. Pour into a clean bottle.
5. Label it!

Recipe 3: Glycerin Sanitizer

• 2/3 cup (150ml) Isopropyl Alcohol (99%)
• 1/3 cup (75ml) Distilled Water
• 1 teaspoon Glycerin

Instructions:

1. Mix the alcohol and water.
2. Add the glycerin and stir.
3. Pour into a clean bottle.
4. Label it!

Important Tips for DIY Success

• Alcohol is Key: Keep that alcohol level at 60% or higher for it to actually kill germs. If you start with a lower percentage alcohol, you need to adjust the recipe to maintain at least 60% alcohol.
• Cleanliness is Next to Godliness: Make sure everything is clean—your container, your tools, everything!
• Storage: Keep your sanitizer in a cool, dark place. It'll last for about 2-3 months.
• Sensitive Skin? Test a little bit on your skin before using a whole batch.
• Keep Away from Kids: This is important! Keep it out of reach of little ones.
• Fire Hazard: Isopropyl alcohol is flammable. Keep it away from flames.

Beyond Sanitizer: Good Handwashing Habits

Homemade sanitizer is great, but nothing beats good old-fashioned handwashing with soap and water. Use sanitizer when soap and water aren't available.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your Hygiene!

Making your own hand sanitizer is easy, affordable, and lets you control what goes on your skin. Give it a try! Remember to wash your hands often and use sanitizer responsibly. Stay healthy!

This guide is just a starting point. Experiment and find what works best for you. Happy sanitizing!