Make DIY Hand-Sanitizer Spray at Home With This Simple Step-by-Step Guide

The best ways to prevent catching the coronavirus (COVID-19) are washing your hands, keeping your distance from others who might be infected, and sanitizing surfaces regularly. Everyday life can get in the way of these cautionary practices, such as coming in contact with germs in public places or not washing hands properly. Luckily, there are ways to stay safe, and one of them is keeping hands clean by using hand sanitizer regularly.

In the case of homemade hand sanitizer, having an alcohol base with a 60 percent or higher concentration should help kill a virus. The World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed that a high concentration of alcohol can be used to disinfect contaminated surfaces, although it did warn against dousing oneself in the liquid as it can be harmful to one’s eyes and mouth. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) noted that sanitizers do not get rid of all types of germs, may not be as effective when hands are dirty or greasy, and might not remove harmful chemicals from hands like pesticides and heavy metals. But, when used right, this form of sanitization can be helpful to keep germs at bay.

If you want to make your own hand sanitizer at home, use these simple ingredients. Instead of stripping your hands of natural oils with pricy store-purchased hand sanitizer, these ingredients work to sanitize and cleanse. You might already have everything needed in your home for this helpful germ-killer, which makes this quick DIY cost just about nothing to mix together. Follow the steps ahead, and upcycle a small spray bottle or perfume container to house this helpful spritzer. Stay healthy!

Keep reading for the easy step-by-step directions:

What You’ll Need:

• 1/4 cup witch hazel
• 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel
• 3/4 cup rubbing alcohol (99 percent)
• 10-15 drops lemongrass, lavender, or tea tree essential oil
• 2-ounce spray bottle
• Funnel

Directions:

1. Add the witch hazel and aloe vera gel to the spray bottle using the funnel. The witch hazel naturally cleans hands without being harsh, and aloe vera gel soothes hands.
2. Now add the rubbing alcohol, which is the main form of antibacterial. And don’t worry about smelling like nail polish remover – the addition of an essential oil helps cover the smell. Add a few drops of your favorite scent, such as lemongrass, lavender, or tea tree oil, which are all natural antibacterials.
3. Top the bottle with the spray top, and give it a shake, distributing the ingredients. Stash it in your bag or on the edge of your desk, and you’re a spritz away from clean hands.

– Additional reporting by Sarah Lipoff

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