5.16.2009

make your own sanitizer

Sanitizer can be expensive and hard to find. But you can make your own. It is recommended that you have at least 60% total alcohol content. Studies show that alcohol concentrations below 60% are actually ineffective in eliminating bacteria and in fact actually "mobilize the bacteria, spreading them around the hand instead of killing them."1 Some sanitizers available for purchase do not meet the minimum standard or alcohol content. Read labels carefully to determine their effectiveness.

Sanitizer does not replace the need for a good hand washing with soap and water. Soil, blood and fecal contamination are not eliminated by sanitizer. Sanitizer should be used to supplement, not replace soap and water.

Sanitizer A
  • 4 cups 70% rubbing alcohol
  • 4 teaspoons of glycerin or other moisturizer like aloe vera (available at health food stores). 3
Sanitizer B
  • 98% alcohol
  • 2% glycerin 4
Sanitizer C (Recipe from Utah Preppers - 63% alcohol. They include pictures.)
  • 5 cups 91% Isopropyl Alcohol
  • 2 cups 100% pure Aloe Gel
  • Essential oil drops can be added for scent. 5
Sources:
2 - CDC

4 comments:

Give LDS Gifts said...

I never thought to make my own. Thank you! I think I'll try it!

The DeMille Digest said...

Hi I just wanted to let you know that I have been reading your blog for a couple of months now but have never commented. I am very grateful for all the information that you provide and always providing resources. I just wanted to let you know to keep up the great work!

Wendy said...

What a nice thing to say! Thank you for your comment.

Anonymous said...

What an excellent idea, to make your own hand sanitizer. Great tips, thank you.

http://preparednesspro.wordpress.com