Make Your Own Hand Sanitizer Today!
The COVID-19 pandemic has people fanatically shopping for all types of hygiene products, including hand sanitizer. While the first line of defense is hand washing, hand sanitizer is better than nothing when you do not have access to running water or need to sanitize between essential errands. Fortunately, homemade hand sanitizer fills the gap when you cannot find any supplies on store shelves. Here are instructions for making DIY hand sanitizer in Eau Claire, WI.
What you need
DIY hand sanitizer contains the same three basic ingredients: isopropyl or rubbing alcohol (99 percent), aloe vera gel and essential oil. The general recipe is two parts alcohol, one part aloe vera and up to 10 drops of the oil (depending on your scent preference). Popular essential oils used in this recipe include lavender, citrus and tea tree oil.
These ingredients and proportions work well if you are making a small batch for your own short-term use. If you need to make a larger batch, the World Health Organization recommends a formula that includes isopropyl alcohol or ethanol, hydrogen peroxide, glycerol and distilled water. Since these ingredients are harsher and sometimes more difficult to find, it is easier to stick with the first recipe.
How to make it
First, you need to precisely measure portions of each ingredient—otherwise, they will either be unsafe or ineffective. Since children are less likely to use hand sanitizer properly, it is not recommended that they use homemade formulas. Also, with some ingredients, there is a risk of mixing them improperly and causing toxic fumes. This is not a project to pursue if you are in a hurry or do not own measuring equipment.
If you believe you can make it correctly, first clean the space where you are working. Wipe down countertops with diluted bleach and wash your hands thoroughly. Wash bowls and implements, too, even if they have not been used recently. Once you sanitize your work area and items, you are ready to start mixing.
Mix ingredients in the portions described above. Use a clean spoon and a whisk to ensure it is mixed thoroughly. Once done, use a spatula to move the mixture into freezer bags or jars. Do not touch the mixture with your hands until you are ready to use it.
When it is time to use it, apply sanitizer into the palm of one hand. Rub hands thoroughly until you cover the entire surface and the mixture dries. It can take about 60 seconds until it kills all the germs.
Hand sanitizer lacks effectiveness if your hands are greasy or dirty when you apply it. If you are working with food, gardening or playing outside, consider using wipes before you use hand sanitizer.
If soap and water are not available, hand sanitizer is a convenient option that will keep you safe from the novel coronavirus. It will work in a pinch, but it is a good idea to wash your hands with soap and water at the next available opportunity.
Mother Nature’s Food offers a wide assortment of essential oils and other ingredients for your homemade hand sanitizer in Eau Claire, WI. If you would like to add a personal touch to your DIY hand sanitizer, visit us today and see what we offer.
Categorised in: Health Tips