How to Make Homemade Alcohol Hand Sanitizer Gel

Germs are everywhere. When you can’t reach a sink, a simple homemade hand sanitizer gel can help keep your hands clean. This natural, kid-friendly recipe uses aloe vera as a base and blends a few skin-supporting ingredients with essential oils for a pleasant scent and added antimicrobial support. If you prefer a spray, there are other DIY options to explore.

What’s in this homemade hand sanitizer gel?

This recipe focuses on gentle, effective ingredients you can find easily. It’s intended for general use; if you plan to give it to young children, omit the rubbing alcohol and some essential oils as noted below.

Aloe vera gel – Forms the base of the gel. Use a high-quality, natural aloe vera gel to avoid unnecessary additives. Aloe soothes and gives your sanitizer a pleasant, non-sticky texture.
Glycerin – A humectant that draws moisture to the skin and helps prevent dryness caused by alcohol.
Vitamin E (optional) – Adds skin-conditioning benefits and helps slow oxidation of essential oils.
Rubbing alcohol (optional; omit for young children) – An antiseptic sanitizer. If you are making sanitizer for adults, a small amount can be added. For young children, avoid alcohol-containing products due to absorption risks.
Essential oils – A blend gives a refreshing scent and some oils have antimicrobial properties. Use caution with essential oils around children: omit clove for under 2 years and omit rosemary for children under 10 years.

How to make this essential oil hand sanitizer

Step 1: Add 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel to a glass bowl

Step 2: Add 2 teaspoons glycerin

Step 3: Add 2 drops vitamin E (optional)

Step 4: Add 1/2 teaspoon rubbing alcohol (optional; omit for kids)

Step 5: Add essential oils

Use the following amounts as a guide and adjust for scent preference or sensitivities:

3 drops orange essential oil
2 drops tea tree essential oil
2 drops lavender essential oil
1 drop clove essential oil (omit for children under 2 years)
1 drop rosemary essential oil (omit for children under 10 years)

Step 6: Stir well

Mix thoroughly until the gel is smooth and the oils are evenly distributed.

Step 7: Transfer to a small container

Pour the finished sanitizer into a travel-friendly container. Small PET or silicone bottles work well for purses and backpacks.

Recipe summary

Add to a glass bowl:
- 1 tablespoon aloe vera gel
- 2 teaspoons glycerin
- 2 drops vitamin E (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon rubbing alcohol (optional; omit for kids)
- 3 drops orange essential oil
- 2 drops tea tree essential oil
- 2 drops lavender essential oil
- 1 drop clove essential oil (omit for children under 2)
- 1 drop rosemary essential oil (omit for children under 10)
Mix thoroughly.
Pour into a small travel container.

How to use

Wipe away visible dirt and debris from hands.
Apply a dime-sized amount of the gel to your palm.
Rub hands together, covering all surfaces and fingers.
Continue rubbing until the sanitizer is fully absorbed.

Where to find supplies

Look for natural aloe vera gel, cosmetic-grade glycerin, vitamin E oil, and rubbing alcohol in pharmacies, health stores, or general retailers. Essential oils should be pure and from reputable suppliers. Small PET or silicone travel bottles and mini funnels are convenient for filling and carrying your sanitizer.

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Please note: Products mentioned in this article have not been evaluated by the FDA. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult a medical professional for health concerns and follow their guidance. Never disregard professional medical advice because of something you have read here.

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