Hand Sanatizer : Make your own WHO approved sanatizer that can kill 99.9 % of bacteria!
Since the coronavirus ( COV-19) outbreak people around the world are bulk buying hand sanitizer. Leaving store shelves empty and online retailers sold out of the product. In this article we will look at the WHO recommended hand rub formulations that you can create at home and a natural chemical free alternative that kills 99.9% of bacteria.
I think it is worth noting that Hand sanitizers are not as effective as washing your hands with warm soapy water. Hand sanitizers were developed for use after washing hands or for those times when soap and water are not available. They are gels that contain alcohol in order to kill the germs present on the skin. The alcohol works immediately and effectively in order to kill bacteria and most viruses (But not all!).
As there is more of a demand for hand sanitizer, we taught we would show you how you can make your own at home. The World Health Organization (WHO) have created a guide on recommended Hand rub Formulations that can be created at home. The microbicidal activity of the two WHO-recommended formulations in this link was tested by WHO laboratories in according to EN standards (EN 1500).
Alternatively, you can make a natural chemical free hand sanitizer that kills 99.9 % of bacteria.
* Tea tree oil has been found in clinical studies to kill most types of bacteria at a concentration of 0.5-1%. If adjusting the recipe, make sure your tea tree is adjusted accordingly so it remains at this concentration. Do not put tea tree oil directly on the sink from concentrate as it may cause irritation.
What you will need?
5-10 drops scented essential oil * This is for the smell so you can choose whatever you prefer. Make sure it is 100% pure essential oil. We recommend peppermint for a wonderful fresh smell.
30 drops tea tree essential oil – this is a 0.5% concentration.
1 Tablespoon witch hazel extract or high-proof vodka.
8 ounces 100% pure aloe vera gel.
¼ teaspoon Vitamin E oil – a natural preservative to increase shelf life. It also helps to soften hands!
1 Large bottle and Lid or multiple small bottles.
Instructions
Add essential oils and Vitamin E oil to a small glass bowl or container and mix.
Add witch hazel (or alcohol) to the oils and mix.
Combine mixture with the aloe vera gel and mix again.
Shake gently before each use. (Sanitizer should last several months with the addition of Vitamin E and alcohol to help preserve.)
Transfer hand sanitizer to small, clean squirt bottles. Try keep it in a dark place and not exposed to too much sunlight. This recipe is perfect for throwing into a purse or a backpack!
Please note the most effective way of removing germs, bacteria and virus is by washing your hands with warm and soap for the length it takes to sing happy birthday twice!