Can't Get Hold of Hand Sanitizer? Mix Your Own With This Recipe
According to the World Health Organization (who.int), washing hands frequently or using alcohol-based hand sanitizers is one of the most effective measures for preventing the spread of bacteria and viruses, and as a result, shops are selling out of the gloopy stuff all over the region. If you are having a hard time getting hold of hand sanitizer, or just want to do a little DIY project to pass the time, the good news is that it's extremely easy to make your own at home, using ingredients you may already have.
There are a variety of non-alcohol based recipes online (check out some options at fabulousfarmgirl.com and at lifehacker.com.au) but we've chosen to go with a vodka-based recipe as this is likely the easiest active ingredient for people to get their hands on. Cheap, plain vodka is a good choice as it only contains water and ethanol, and should be 60 percent ABV to be effective.
The other component, aloe vera, is a great carrier oil and also moisturizes and protects the skin against drying out, a side effect of using straight vodka to wash your hands. Essential oils are optional, as the germ-fighting properties come principally from the vodka, but many essential oils such as tea tree, peppermint, and lavender do have antibacterial properties and also reduce the unpleasant alcohol smell.
Ingredients
75ml squeeze bottle
2 tbsp vodka (60-70 percent ABV)
3 tbsp aloe vera gel (to soften hands and prevent drying caused by the alcohol)
15 drops essential oils (optional)
Method
Combine vodka and aloe vera gel in a bowl. Stir to combine.
Add 15 drops of essential oils of your choice.
Transfer to a small squeeze bottle.
Keep in a cool, dark place and away from direct sunlight, and supervise young children if they will be using this sanitizer solution.
READ: Bored to Death? How to Taobao Your New Stay-At-Home Hobby
Image: Drew Hays (via unsplash.com)
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