Never, in recent memory, has there been a time when personal hygiene has been so much at the forefront of the conversation as it is right now – and for very good reason. At a time when we all need to work together to fight the spread of the novel coronavirus, proper handwashing is vital as it is one of the most effective ways to stop the spread of viruses and other germs. It is, however, not always possible to wash your hands on the spot. This is where hand sanitiser comes in handy. Instead of joining the queues emptying the shelves in the stores, you can easily make your own at home.

An Easy “Recipe” to Make Your Own Hand Sanitiser

Note: If you make your own hand sanitiser, it is not recommended for use for children. 

You will need a mixing bowl, a spoon, a whisk, and a container for your hand sanitiser. Mix the following ingredients together properly:

• Two parts isopropyl alcohol or ethanol (rubbing alcohol or surgical spirit). For the final mixture to be effective, the alcohol content needs to be at least 60%, so you want to use something with a much higher alcohol percentage. Make sure the alcohol you use is not diluted. 

• One part aloe vera (or your favourite moisturiser if you don’t have aloe vera)

• A few drops of your favourite essential oil, like tea tree oil, lavender, peppermint or eucalyptus

Mix these all together with a spoon, and then use the whisk to turn the mixture into a gel.

Follow these instructions when you make your own hand sanitiser:

• Do it in a clean space. Wipe down your work surface with a diluted bleach solution before you get started.

• Wash your hands thoroughly.

• Use a clean spoon and whisk for mixing. Wash these before you get started.

• Avoid touching the mixture with your hands until it is done and ready to be used.

It is handy to make your own hand sanitiser as a backup or for use in emergencies. However, it is important to note that hand sanitisers do not replace the need to wash your hands regularly. This is still the most effective way to combat the spread of viruses and germs. To clean your hands properly, all you need is a good quality soap, and to scrub your hands thoroughly for at least 20 seconds at a time.