When it comes to preventing the spread of infectious diseases like COVID-19, proper handwashing is #1. But for times when you need to run to the store or a quick fix, using a 60% or greater alcohol-based hand sanitizer can help (CDC based guidelines).
Unless you had plenty on hand sanitizer before the store shelves went empty, you likely won't be able to find any online or in store. This is how you can make your own using ingredients you might already have in your medicine cabinet: rubbing alcohol and aloe vera gel.
- Isopropyl or rubbing alcohol (99 percent alcohol volume)
- Aloe vera gel
- Empty pump dispenser,
- Bowl, spoon or whisk
In order to be effective, you'll need to stick to a 2:1 proportion of alcohol to aloe vera. This keeps the alcohol content around 60 percent, which is the minimum amount needed to kill most germs as per the CDC.
How to make it:
- Make sure the area you are working in is sterile and wash your hands before you begin.
- Thoroughly wash/sterilize the dispenser you want to use.
- Fill it with 2/3 of isopropyl or rubbing alcohol (99 percent).
- Fill the remaining 1/3 with aloe vera gel (to counteract the harshness and to moisturize).
- Shake well or mix contents in a bowl with a whisk or spoon (make sure the bowl and spoon/whisk have also been thoroughly cleaned).
- Pour the ingredients back into the dispenser and voila!
- Optional: add 5-10 drops of lavender or lemon essential oil.
NOW you're ready to get through this! Stay safe and stay home.
