In today’s world, especially during the pandemic, having hand sanitizer on hand has become essential. It’s easy to overlook the importance of this germ-fighting gel, but it’s become a treasured item that can be hard to find. You might have noticed your preferred brands are often out of stock, prompting you to explore a DIY alternative. Plus, frequent hand washing can lead to dry skin, so a soothing recipe using aloe vera is an attractive option. If you’re searching for “how to make hand sanitizer with aloe vera,” we’ve got you covered!
Before we dive in, it’s worth mentioning that the CDC emphasizes that washing your hands with soap and water is the most effective method for cleanliness. However, we all know the convenience of hand sanitizer. If you’re looking for a gentle yet effective backup, here’s how to whip up your own.
How to Create Hand Sanitizer with Aloe Vera
Making your own hand sanitizer with aloe vera is straightforward! Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients and Supplies:
- Two parts 99% isopropyl rubbing alcohol
- One part aloe vera gel or fresh aloe from a plant
- Essential oils of your choice or lemon juice
- A funnel
- A bottle or jar with a lid
- A whisk
- A spoon
- A mixing bowl
Instructions:
- Start by cleaning your workspace thoroughly. Wipe down surfaces with DIY disinfectant wipes or spray.
- Combine the rubbing alcohol and aloe vera in a mixing bowl. Use a clean whisk to mix thoroughly. If using fresh aloe, blend it in a food processor to ensure a smooth mixture.
- The mixture will have a strong alcohol smell, so add a few drops of your favorite essential oil to mask it. Sweet orange and clove are popular options since many essential oils also have disinfectant properties.
- Whisk the ingredients again to blend the oils.
- Use a funnel and spoon to transfer the mixture into an airtight container. For a personal touch, label your container creatively!
Alcohol-Free Aloe Vera Hand Sanitizer
If you want to skip the alcohol smell, note that it’s necessary for effective germ killing. According to the CDC, hand sanitizers need at least 60% alcohol to work properly. Mixing aloe vera reduces the alcohol content, so using a 2:1 ratio with 99% alcohol will give you a sanitizer at around 65% alcohol. Alternatively, you can use 70% alcohol but adjust the recipe accordingly.
Is Aloe Vera Gel Safe to Eat?
One benefit of making aloe vera-based hand sanitizer is that it’s less toxic than traditional alcohol-based products. Aloe vera gel is actually edible and offers numerous health benefits, including lower blood sugar levels and antioxidant properties.
Bonus: Homemade Cleaners with Aloe Vera
If you have leftover aloe vera, consider making a surface cleaner. Here’s a simple recipe:
- ½ cup baking soda
- ½ cup liquid soap
- 15 drops of rosemary or tea tree oil
- 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel
Mix these ingredients in a jar, adding aloe to maintain moisture. This scrub works wonders on tubs and sinks, and you can rinse it with a vinegar-water solution.
Another idea is an aloe-based cleaner for wooden surfaces. Combine water, vinegar, olive oil, aloe vera, and essential oils to create a natural dusting solution for your furniture.
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