How to Make Homemade Hand Sanitizer

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The things we take for granted, huh? A month ago, we never thought we’d be amidst a health crisis and national shortage of everyday supplies.

I haven’t been able to find items like toilet paper, paper towels, hand sanitizer, and even groceries for a while.

So I decided to learn how to make homemade hand sanitizer so that we’d at least have some on hand.

Please note that nothing replaces good, proper handwashing techniques.

Hand sanitizer should only be used in emergency situations when soap and water are not readily available.

There are two different recipes for DIY hand sanitizer: one is a spray and the other is a gel (like the Purell you find in stores).

DIY Hand Sanitizer Spray

Ingredients Needed:

Isopropyl Alcohol (you probably already have some on hand)
Vegetable Glycerin
Hydrogen Peroxide
Distilled Water
Spray Bottle (I prefer glass ones like these)

Homemade Hand Sanitizer Gel

Ingredients Needed:

Isopropyl Alcohol
Aloe Vera Gel
Tea Tree Oil – As long as it’s 100% pure, you’re getting the right stuff. Stay away from MLM brands. They’re overpriced and “ambassadors” will want to sign you up for a side hustle.

If you’re looking for legit ways to make money from home, this post shares 81 different ideas.

My favorite side hustle (for obvious reasons) is blogging. You can learn how to start a blog here.

How to Make Your Own DIY Hand Sanitizer Spray

Mix 12 fluid ounces of isopropyl alcohol with 2 teaspoons of glycerin. Glycerin is a very important ingredient because it keeps the alcohol from drying out your hands.

In the spirit of frugality, you can omit the glycerin from the recipe. Just be sure to moisturize your hands after each use so that they don’t dry out!

Add 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide, then 3 ounces of distilled water.

Money-Saving Tip: You can distill your own water by boiling and allowing it to cool.

If you’re working with a lower-concentration solution of rubbing alcohol, use much less water; as long as ¾ of your final mixture is alcohol, you’re doing it right.

Add the solution to your spray bottles. You can use this spray to quickly sanitize your hands. You can also spray to towels or paper towels (if you’re so lucky to have some on hand).

DIY Sanitizing Wipes for the Win!

Here’s another pro-tip. You can make a larger-scale solution to be added to a round container with a lid. Cut paper towels in half and place inside the container for DIY sanitizing wipes!

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How to Make Homemade Hand Sanitizer Gel (Quickest DIY Recipe)

Mix 3 parts isopropyl alcohol to 1 part aloe vera gel. Add a few drops of tea tree oil (or any other essential oil fragrance if you prefer a different scent).

Bergamot is my favorite essential oil because it’s uplifting and citrusy.

Note that some items are severely understocked online and in stores. Your best bet is to check inventory online and order what you can before they sell out.

To save money, boil water and use what you have on hand. Essential oils are actually non-essential in this case, but I do prefer them to soften the scent a bit.

We will get through these uncertain times. Together. I will remind you to pray, wash your hands, and stay at home when possible.