Top Hand Sanitizer Gels

Carleen Phillips
Cold and flu season is here. Local news stations are detailing the outbreaks of swine flu, and more and more people are looking to waterless hand sanitizers to help stop the transmission of germs. Quick and easy to use, this alcohol-based means of cleansing requires no water or towels.

Most germs are spread by people constantly touching their faces, noses, and mouths, then handling everyday objects. Someone will pick up the object, then later touch their face, nose, or mouth. Therefore, keeping your hands as clean as possible is a necessity. Many public facilities from restrooms to libraries offer waterless sanitizers. If you wish to keep a bottle on hand for personal use or for your business, try one of these popular brands.

Belli Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer contains benzalkonium chloride, which is an alternative drying agent to the more popular ethyl alcohol. Compared to ethyl alcohol, benzalkonium chloride is more gentle on the skin, and is approved for pregnant and lactating woman. This product smooths the hands, does not leave a medicinal smell, and kills 99.9 percent of germs. You may purchase Belli for around six dollars at your local drug store.

Germ-X offers both an alcohol based and non-alcohol based product. The top choice for many school systems, it too kills 99.9 percent of bacteria and comes in many sizes, from a family pack down to a bottle small enough for your purse. They also produce hand and face wipes. You may purchase either scented, or non-scented gels. The 1.5oz bottle is their most popular size, perfect for backpacks and cars. Germ-X can be purchased in any grocery store or drug store. Prices may range from $1.99 to $9.99 for a large bottle.

Purell Hand Sanitizers contain aloe, which helps keep hands soft. This highly affordable brand is my personal choice. Event the slightly "wetter" gels evaporate quickly and leave no residue. They even offer a "pen spray" in addition to the travel-size bottle. One spray and you're good to go. You can find Purell in any drugstore, grocery store, or office supply store. Prices vary according to size. Most stores off a trail bottle for ninety-nine cents.

If you are buying in bulk for your business, Fresh and Clean is another top option. Like most hand sanitizers, this one also kills 99.9 percent of germs, and leaves no residue. Using both ethyl and isopropyl alcohol, this brand makes use of natural-based moisturizers for a cleaner feel. Check their website below for details on bulk pricing and discounts.

When using a gel sanitizer, keep in mind that a little goes a long way. You only need one dab the size of a pea in the palm of your hand. Be sure to rub it in thoroughly. But remember, using waterless hand sanitizer is no substitute for a good bar of soap and warm water. This is still the most effective way to avoid spreading many of the germs that cause illness. Many of these sanitizers kill only the more common bacteria, and not all harmful bacteria. Use them for convenience, but always wash your hands as much as possible, especially when in public.

www.purell.com
www.germx.com
www.nowet.com

Published by Carleen Phillips

I'm a mother of three, a figure-skating instructor, a yoga enthusiast, and a part-time writer.  View profile

To comment, please sign in to your Yahoo! account, or sign up for a new account.