Homemade hand sanitizer spray is an all natural, nontoxic alternative to conventional hand sanitizer. It takes only a couple minutes to put together this easy 3 ingredient recipe. Some homemade hand sanitizer recipes call for rubbing alcohol while others use witch hazel. Let’s discuss the difference between them and the benefit of each essential oil used.
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Rubbing Alcohol vs. Witch Hazel
Rubbing alcohol is considered an antiseptic. It can kill microbes such as viruses, bacteria and fungi. Consequently, the concentration must be at least 70 percent in order to be effective. On the other hand, pure rubbing alcohol at 96 percent or higher will evaporate too fast making it ineffective. As a result, keep the hand sanitizer between 70-95% rubbing alcohol.
Witch hazel is an astringent, not a disinfectant. It is distilled from the dried leaves, bark and dormant branches of the witch hazel plant. For instance, witch hazel has anti-inflammatory properties that make it useful in natural topical remedies. There is no evidence that it can kill viruses and bacteria. As a result, it may not be effective when used in hand sanitizer.
Natural Hand Sanitizer vs. Conventional Hand Sanitizer
Conventional hand sanitizer is full of unnecessary toxins that are harmful to our bodies. For instance, acrylates C10-30, alkyl acrylate crosspolymer and aminomethyl propanol are synthetic chemicals found in hand sanitizers and other cosmetics. Along with synthetic fragrances and coloring. They are considered toxic but “safe” under a certain percentage. What happens when you use that toxin filled product continuously? Consider all the conventional cosmetics you use on a daily basis. Our bodies become overloaded with toxins.
On the other hand, homemade hand sanitizer contains all natural ingredients that are safe for our bodies.
Overuse of hand sanitizer will kill the good bacteria that our bodies need. For this reason, we do not use anti-bacteria soap around our house. We make our own foaming hand soap. A soap with a good lather and warm water will adequately remove germs. The downside to using rubbing alcohol is that it will kill the good bacterial. On the go, it is convenient to carry in your diaper bag or purse when there is no access to a sink. For instance, we use it after playing at the playground or finish grocery shopping.
Essential Oil Used in Hand Sanitizer Spray
Essential oil that can naturally boost the immune system, contain antibacterial and cleansing properties are beneficial to use in homemade hand sanitizer spray. While each essential oil has several uses, let’s mention why they are good for hand sanitizer spray.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties. It is a hot oil, meaning it can irritate the skin. Be sure to dilute with a carrier oil. Also, it is a potent oil and should be used sparingly.
Clove
Clove has antibacterial properties. Just like cinnamon, it is a hot oil. Be sure to dilute with a carrier oil.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus has cleansing and immune boosting properties. In addition, it is beneficial for respiratory issues.
Orange
Orange has cleansing properties. It is a photosensitive oil, meaning it can increase sensitivity to the sun. It’s not recommended for use before going into direct sun.
Rosemary
Rosemary has cleansing properties. Also, it is a natural preservative.
How to Store Essential Oil Hand Sanitizer Spray
It’s important to store homemade hand sanitizer in dark colored glass, such as amber or blue, to preserve the life of the essential oils. Also, it’s best to use glass because overtime essential oils can dissolve plastic and pull out the toxins.
How to Make Homemade Hand Sanitizer Spray
MATERIALS
- 2 oz. Amber Glass Spray Bottle
- Rubbing Alcohol
- 1 tsp. Vegetable Glycerin (or Fractionated Coconut Oil)
- 3 drops each of:
INSTRUCTIONS
- Add the vegetable glycerin to the amber glass spray bottle.
- Add the essential oils to the amber glass spray bottle.
- Fill the rest of the bottle with rubbing alcohol.
- Shake well before each use.
- Spray on hands and rub together.
Scroll down to find the printable instructions!
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- 2 ounce Amber Spray Bottles: https://amzn.to/39IdXwp
- Vegetable Glycerin: https://amzn.to/35OYs4v
- Cinnamon Essential Oil: https://amzn.to/39M1nvZ
- Clove Essential Oil: https://amzn.to/3oWHpp1
- Eucalyptus Essential Oil: https://amzn.to/3sCfYmr
- Orange Essential Oil: https://amzn.to/3p9RoYd
- Rosemary Essential Oil: https://amzn.to/35Srm3U
Hand Sanitizer Spray
Homemade hand sanitizer spray is an all natural, nontoxic alternative to conventional hand sanitizer.
Materials
- 2 oz. Amber Glass Spray Bottle
- Rubbing Alcohol
- 1 tsp. Vegetable Glycerin
- 3 drops each of:
- Cinnamon Essential Oil,
- Clove Essential Oil
- Eucalyptus Essential Oil
- Rosemary Essential Oil
- Wild Orange Essential Oil
Instructions
1. Add the vegetable glycerin to the amber glass spray bottle.
2. Add the essential oils to the amber glass spray bottle.
3. Fill the rest of the bottle with rubbing alcohol.
4. Shake well before each use.
5. Spray on hands and rub together.
Notes
The concentration must be at least 70 percent in order to be effective. On the other hand, pure rubbing alcohol at 96 percent or higher will evaporate too fast making it ineffective. As a result, keep the hand sanitizer between 70-95% rubbing alcohol.
