As the panic in South Africa escalates, it seems that people have bought all the hand sanitiser… but don’t worry; we found a recipe so you can make your own.
South Africans have begun to panic as the first case of Coronavirus was confirmed. Already the price of face masks has escalated, and things like toilet paper and hand sanitiser are flying off the shelves.
We wouldn’t be doing our duty if we didn’t ask everyone to take a moment and remain calm! Out of greed, many suppliers are taking advantage of the surge in panic buying and prices of basic items will start to rise, which most South Africans will not be able to afford.
As South African citizens, we have a responsibility not to create hysteria surrounding the coronavirus. As of right now, there is only one confirmed case which is being dealt with swiftly.
It is clear that hand sanitiser is a problem, so we looked into what it would take to make your own. It is always smart to wash your hands to prevent the spread of germs, even when there isn’t a virus roaming the globe… Remember, we are on the cusp of winter and flu season is about to start so boosting your immune system and keeping your hands clean is good practice anyway!
The CDC (Centers for Disease Control & Prevention) in America has stated that hand sanitiser needs to have 60% alcohol to be effective.
How It Works
The active ingredient in this hand sanitizer recipe is the alcohol, which needs to comprise at least 60% of the product in order to be an effective disinfectant. The recipe calls for 99% ethanol (grain alcohol) or isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol).
Please don’t use any other types of alcohol (e.g., methanol, butanol), as they are toxic. Also, if you use a product that contains a lower percentage of alcohol (e.g., 70% alcohol) then you need to increase the amount of alcohol in the recipe or it won’t be as effective.
Some commercial hand sanitizer contains ingredients as scary as the germs they protect you from, so why not make your own hand sanitizer from ingredients you select? This is an excellent project for kids as well as adults since the project can be expanded to include a discussion about hygiene and disinfection. You’ll save money, protect yourself from germs, and can customize the scent of the hand sanitizer so it doesn’t smell medicinal.
Essential Oils in Hand Sanitiser
In addition to adding fragrance to your hand sanitiser, the essential oil you choose may also help protect you against germs. For example, thyme and clove oil have antimicrobial properties. If you are using antimicrobial oils, only use a drop or two, since these oils tend to be very powerful and might irritate your skin. Other oils, such as lavender or chamomile, may help soothe your skin.
How to Make Homemade Hand Sanitiser
What Equipment / Tools You’ll Need
- Bowl and spoon
- Funnel
- Bottle with pump dispenser
Materials
- 2/3 cup 99 percent rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) or ethanol
- 1/3 cup Aloe Vera Gel
- 8 to 10 drops essential oil, optional
Gather Your Ingredients
Make sure you have your rubbing alcohol, aloe vera gel, and optional essential oils ready and measured out.
Steps to Make Hand Sanitiser
Nothing could be easier! Simply mix the ingredients together and then use the funnel to pour them into the bottle. Screw the pump back onto the bottle and you’re ready to go.
Mix Ingrdients
Add all ingredients together in your bowl and mix thoroughly with a spoon.
Pour Into Your Bottle
Using the funnel, carefully pour your DIY hand sanitizer into the bottle of your choice, screw the top of your bottle on tight, and begin using.
Not able to make your own, that is ok too, just be sure to wash your hands as often as possible and avoid touching your face.
Once again, please remain calm, we as South Africans have no reason to panic.
PLEASE NOTE:
AT MITP we have made the choice to share only helpful information that is informative. Misinformation is a massive problem today, therefore MITP has researched all information before sharing this article and assure you it is accurate!
Stay healthy and hygienic
