DIY Natural Hand Sanitizers and Soaps

As parents, we never stop stressing over the importance of washing hands to our children. If we do not have access to soap and water (especially when we are on the go), sanitizers are also recommended as they kill most of the germs present on hands. However, with the spread of the pandemic, these hand sanitizers have literally turned into our lifeline as we step out to lead our lives with some semblance of normalcy. Hand sanitizers have become a part of us to such an extent that we feel quite vulnerable without them.

The Benefits of a Homemade Hand Sanitizer

There may be several hand sanitizers available in stores which claim to be chemical/alcohol-free, but let us be honest, do we really understand each word specified on the product label? I know I don’t! That is exactly why homemade DIY hand sanitizers work: you know what goes into them, they are effective, healthy, and to be frank, they may even cost you a lot less. The same benefits apply to homemade soaps. The cost part needs to be kept in mind, as due to the current scenario, we tend to use hand sanitizers not only while we are out but continuously also while we are at home. Moreover, with kids being cooped up at home and all of us searching for ideas to keep them engaged, these DIY hand sanitizers and soaps are good activities for kids to be involved in.

Disadvantages of Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizers

Hand sanitizers are now available in the form of wipes, sprays, gels, and foams, and they are generally alcohol-based. While we try to get our hands on and stock up on hand sanitizers, we must remember that there are various disadvantages associated with alcohol-based hand sanitizers, especially where children are concerned.

Some disadvantages of alcohol-based hand sanitizers to be highlighted are:

• Alcohol toxicity: Most liquid hand sanitizers comprise a large amount of isopropyl alcohol and triclosan. Thus, these hand sanitizers must be kept out of the reach of children and should be used under adult supervision. Also, studies at the University of Maine state that triclosan can lead to hormonal disruption with time.
• Dry skin and risk of infection: When used too frequently, alcohol-based hand sanitizers can wash away the natural oils from the skin, which leads to drying and cracking.
• Fire hazard: Most hand sanitizers available in the market comprise a high volume of alcohol, which is enough to be considered a fire hazard.

DIY Chemical Free Hand Sanitiser

This blend contains no alcohol or chemicals; thus, there is no reason to worry about skin irritation, especially for children.

Ingredients Required:

• Essential oils: These oils with proven anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties, have a lot of skin benefits.
• Aloe vera gel: Keeps the skin smooth.
• Witch hazel: Eases irritation, injuries, and inflammation.

Steps:

1. Start with taking a 4-ounce spray bottle.
2. Fill 3/4^th of the spray bottle with sterile water.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel.
4. Add 10 drops each of clove, rosemary, cinnamon, and eucalyptus essential oils.
5. Add 20 drops of either orange, lemon, or grapefruit essential oil – depends on the aroma you prefer.
6. Add 1/4^th cup witch hazel.
7. Secure the spray dispenser on to the spray bottle and then mix thoroughly.
8. Store in a cool location out of direct sunlight.

Your natural, chemical-free DIY hand sanitizers is ready!! Spray on to your hands as and when needed.

DIY Chemical Free Soaps

This chemical-free soap recipe ensures that you are treating your and your family’s skin with good quality, pure, and natural products that are handpicked by you.

Ingredients Needed:

• Soap Base: Select a good quality soap base, which includes ingredients such as shea butter, rich coconut milk, or goat milk. You can also choose flavored soap bases such as aloe vera, rose, honey, papaya, activated charcoal, and so on.
• Essential Oils: These oils come with various skin benefiting properties, provide aroma, and make you feel rejuvenated.
• Natural Ingredients: Adding natural ingredients such as orange peels, lemon slices, or ground coffee spices gives your soap an extra edge.

Steps

1. Cut 500 gm soap base into small cubes. Use a double boiler and melt these bars completely (ensure continuous stirring). Once the bars melt, remove from the flame.
2. Add 4-5 drops of the essential oils to the melted soap base and mix.
3. Add some natural ingredients such as dried flowers or lemon peels (you can experiment with what you want) and then pour the mix into silicone molds. Let it sit for 7-8 hours in a cool place.

Your all-natural homemade chemical-free soap is ready!! This is the best thing you can do for your skin. Conclusion As we all await a vaccine or cure for the novel coronavirus, personal hygiene is our only weapon for now. In such a scenario, hand sanitizers with essential oils and aloe vera along with regular washing of hands with soap and water can help you to a large extent.

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