To combat the spread of infectious diseases (such as Covid-19), nothing beats good old-fashioned hand washing. But if you’re out and about and soap and water is not available, then your next best option is to use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
With the current under-supply of store-bought hand sanitizer, one option is to simply make your own to have on hand.
Is hand sanitizer a good substitute for hand washing?
Washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water is always going to be your best option for preventing the spread of diseases.
But let’s face it – you don’t always have access to soap and a sink when you’re out and about, and usually it’s these times when we need it the most!
Shopping, travelling, changing nappies or doing other public activities – you’re bound to need some hand sanitizer at some point, so if you can’t find it in the store you can simply make it yourself with just three ingredients.
Here’s what you need to make your own hand sanitizer using tea tree oil:-
Hand sanitizer recipe
Ingredients:
- ¾ cup of rubbing alcohol eg. isopropyl (must be 99%)
- ¼ cup aloe vera gel
- 10 drops of tea tree oil (or you can use lavender oil if you wish)
Method:
- Combine all ingredients into a bowl.
- Mix with a spoon, then beat using a whisk until it turns into a gel.
- Using a funnel, pour into an empty, clean bottle.
Make sure you label it ‘hand sanitizer’ and store out of reach of young children and pets.
Tips for making tea tree oil hand sanitizer at home
- Make your hand sanitizer in a clean space – wipe down the countertop or kitchen bench before you start.
- Make sure you have thoroughly washed your hands with soap and water before you begin.
- Ensure you use clean utensils for mixing and whisking.
- Don’t touch the mixture with your hands until it’s ready to use.
How to use hand sanitizer effectively
First of all, you need to rub it into your skin until your hands are completely dry.
Spray or apply the sanitizer to the palm of one hand.
Rub hands together thoroughly, making sure you cover the entire surface of your hands and all fingers.
Continue to rub for 30-60 seconds or until hands are dry. It usually takes at least 60 seconds for hand sanitizer to kill most germs, so make sure you apply properly.
