How to Make Hand Sanitizer with Grain Alcohol
In the midst of the global pandemic, the demand for hand sanitizers has surged. While it’s important to follow the guidelines set by health authorities, making your own hand sanitizer can be a cost-effective and convenient solution. One of the most common ingredients used in homemade hand sanitizers is grain alcohol. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making hand sanitizer with grain alcohol.
Ingredients
To make hand sanitizer with grain alcohol, you’ll need the following ingredients:
– 75% grain alcohol (vodka or Everclear)
– Aloe vera gel
– Essential oils (optional, for scent)
– Distilled water
– A clean container with a lid
Instructions
1. Measure the Ingredients: Start by measuring the required amount of grain alcohol. For a basic recipe, you’ll need 75% grain alcohol, which is typically found in vodka or Everclear. A good starting point is one cup of alcohol for every two cups of aloe vera gel.
2. Add Aloe Vera Gel: Pour the measured aloe vera gel into the container. Aloe vera not only provides a smooth texture but also has moisturizing properties that can help prevent your hands from drying out.
3. Incorporate Essential Oils (Optional): If you’d like to add a pleasant scent to your hand sanitizer, now is the time to do so. Add a few drops of essential oils such as lavender, tea tree, or peppermint. Remember to use essential oils that are safe for skin application.
4. Mix Well: Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure that the alcohol and aloe vera gel are well combined. The final consistency should be smooth and gel-like.
5. Adjust the Ratio: If the mixture is too thick, you can add a small amount of distilled water to thin it out. If it’s too thin, you can add more grain alcohol to thicken it.
6. Fill the Containers: Transfer the hand sanitizer mixture into clean containers with lids. These can be plastic bottles, glass jars, or any other container that can be sealed tightly.
7. Label the Containers: It’s important to label your homemade hand sanitizer to avoid any confusion with other products. Include the date of manufacture and any warnings, such as “For external use only.”
8. Store Properly: Keep your hand sanitizer in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It’s best to use it within a few months to ensure the effectiveness of the alcohol.
By following these simple steps, you can create a safe and effective hand sanitizer using grain alcohol. Remember to always follow the instructions and guidelines provided by health authorities, and use your homemade hand sanitizer responsibly.
