How To Make Natural Hand Sanitizer

I don’t think it would surprise anyone to know that I’m not a fan of commercial hand sanitizers. This may sound strange but I don’t use antibacterial soap or strong cleaners at home because I actually believe having a little bacteria around is a good thing for us.

After researching the dangerous chemicals in commercial cleaning products years ago, I was horrified and immediately started making my own personal care products, which lead to my obsession of finding a natural way to do everything and to the launch of my business TENDER organics.

DID YOU KNOW:

The FDA ruled in 2016 that manufacturers should stop using triclosan, a common ingredient in antibacterial soaps and sanitizers at the time, due to its ability to disrupt hormones and contribution to a rise in resistant strains of bacteria. YIKES!

GOOD TO KNOW:

Some evidence shows that kids who grow up in an overly sterile environment have higher rates of allergies and asthma than kids who don’t use antibacterial products as much. Exposure to different types of bacteria, especially early in life, helps kids’ immune systems to develop.

The Benefits of Natural Hand Sanitizer (w/ Essential Oils)

We don’t even use our natural hand sanitizer very often and opt for simple hand washing whenever possible. I do keep a little bottle of homemade hand sanitizer by the sink though to ensure safety after handling meat or changing a diaper, and other yucky tasks.

Commercial sanitizers often contain drying alcohol that is too strong for kids to use anyway. The nice thing about making my own is I can make a more gentle version for use around our son and a stronger one to use in a place like a public restroom.

Instead of triclosan or other antibacterial agents, I use essential oils that inhibit bacteria naturally, being careful to choose ones that are safe for kids. There is also some evidence that these oils can help battle viruses, making them potentially more effective. It is important to note that these first two recipes are more like a waterless soap and not a full hand sanitizer. The CDC explains that a product must be at least 60% alcohol to be a hand sanitizer and only the last recipe can reach that percentage.

Gentle Hand Sanitizer Recipe

(Safe for Kids)

This non-drying herbal hand sanitizer gel nourishes with aloe vera. It’s also so simple that your children can help you make it.

Ingredients

¼ cup aloe vera gel
20 drops germ destroyer essential oil

InstructionsMix all ingredients and store in a reusable silicone tube.Use as needed to naturally remove germs from hands.

Stronger Hand Sanitizer Recipe

For a stronger hand sanitizer that performs like commercial versions (without the triclosan), try this recipe. If you work in a hospital, this might be a good one for your personal use. I would not use this recipe on kids!

Ingredients

1 TBSP rubbing alcohol
1/2 tsp vegetable glycerin (optional)
1/4 cup aloe vera gel
20 drops Germ Destroyer oil
distilled water (colloidal silver/ionic silver adds antibacterial power if available)
other essential oils (just for scent) I use lemongrass essential oil

Instructions

To make, mix aloe vera gel, optional glycerin, and rubbing alcohol in a small bowl.
Add cinnamon essential oil and tea tree oil along with a drop or two of any other oils you want to add for scent. Lemongrass, orange, lavender, and peppermint are good choices.
Mix well and add distilled water (or colloidal/ionic silver) to thin to desired consistency.
Use a small funnel or medicine dropper to transfer hand sanitizer into spray or pump type bottles. This can also be stored in small silicone tubes for use on the go.
Use as you would any other type of hand sanitizer.

Strongest Homemade Hand Sanitizer Recipe (5 Minute Recipe)

The CDC recommends at least 60% alcohol in hand sanitizer to effectively battle viruses. This formula follows this percentage and adds aloe vera for gentleness and essential oils for extra virus fighting. This is the one I am currently using after being in areas where viruses are more likely to be transmitted.

Ingredients:

2/3 cup rubbing alcohol (70% or higher)
2 Tablespoons aloe vera (If unable to find aloe vera, glycerin can be used as a substitute)
20 drops Germ Destroyer Essential Oil. (You can also use Germ Fighter which is stronger but I wouldn’t recommend for use on kids)
Instructions:
1. Mix all ingredients and combine in a spray bottle (these are the perfect size) or small bottle of any kind. Use as needed.
Notes
- Always check with a doctor or healthcare provider before using essential oils, especially on children or if you have a medical condition.
- Using fresh aloe vera gel isn’t as stable for counter storage; a commercial brand is recommended.
While I prefer to use the homemade recipe, I also found this natural hand sanitizer. It was created by a Dad who was looking for a way to remove chemicals from products to protect his immune-compromised son.