Homemade Waterless Hand Sanitizers

Waterless hand sanitizers. It seems people everywhere are pulling out small bottles or spraying or spritzing or wiping. We're told not to use these hand sanitizers too much. Then we're told the medical and health benefits, and why we should use them more. So on the one hand, it is healthy. On the other hand, it is destructive. Confused? Absolutely. And yet while the debate rages on, people are purchasing these products in droves. If you are concerned about the ingredients, and if you are dubious as to the effectiveness of certain brands, take control. Simply make your own.

The key to making your own waterless hand sanitizer is using the correct amount of alcohol, and a thickening agent. There are many variations on the web, and you can experiment and come up with your own. One increasingly popular combination is mixing rubbing alcohol and hair gel. Definitely use a gel that has a pleasing aroma, not medicinal. Simply mix two parts gel to one part alcohol. Store it in a plastic container. Keep in mind that some hair gels can be very sticky, so make certain you are purchasing a brand you are already familiar with.

A more popular choice is the use of aloe vera gel. Combine 4 ounces of aloe vera gel with one teaspoon of rubbing alcohol (or slightly more if desired). Add 1-2 teaspoons of vegetable glycerin. You may add a few drops of your favorite essential oils for fragrance.

If you desire a natural approach, there are several essential oils that also acts as antibacterial agents. Tea Tree oil is know for its antiseptic, antifungal and antibacterial properties. Be careful not to confuse it with tea oil. A natural antibiotic, the addition of this oil will not only enhance the sanitizer's cleansing properties, but give the mixture a wonderful, evergreen scent. Oregano oil also claims many of these antiseptic properties. Eucalyptus oils serves as an antibacterial agent, and is commonly known to soothe and relieve stress, so you'll receive a double benefit from the scent. Add up to three drops each of the essential oil to your mixture. Make certain the combination flatters each other scent-wise, or you may end up with a mixture you can't stand to put on your hands!

Store the hand sanitizer in a ceramic or glass pump bottle, commonly used for lotion. These can be purchased at any home decorating store, or large retail outlets. Or you can purchase a small travel bottle with a screw-on lid for your purse or luggage. Just make certain the container you buy has a firm cap. And remember, homemade hand sanitizers may take a little longer to evaporate than the store bought brands. Some mixtures may leave a residue. Simply continue to rub your hands.

Whether using homemade or store bought, there is simply no substitute for good, old fashions hand-washing with soap and warm water. Time and time again, this has proven to be the most effective way to fight germs. Wash your hands well, and often. And if you can't wash them, that's when you pull out your special mixture.