Can You Make Hand Sanitizer with Everclear?
In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, hand sanitizers have become a staple in our daily lives. With store shelves often empty, many people are turning to DIY solutions. One question that's been circulating is: can you make hand sanitizer with Everclear? Let's dive into the science behind hand sanitizers and explore this question in detail.
Understanding Hand Sanitizers
Hand sanitizers work by killing germs on your hands through friction and chemical action. The active ingredient in most hand sanitizers is alcohol, which must be present in a concentration of at least 60% to be effective against common germs. Other ingredients include water, emollients (to keep your hands from drying out), and thickeners (to give the sanitizer its gel-like consistency).
What is Everclear?
Everclear is a brand of grain alcohol produced by Luxco. It's known for its high alcohol content, which can range from 75.5% to 95% alcohol by volume (ABV), depending on the specific product. This high alcohol content makes Everclear a popular choice for DIY projects, including hand sanitizers.
Can You Make Hand Sanitizer with Everclear?
The short answer is yes, you can make hand sanitizer with Everclear. However, it's crucial to understand the process and the potential pitfalls. Here's a simple recipe:
- 2/3 cup Everclear (ensure it's at least 75.5% ABV)
- 1/3 cup aloe vera gel
- 1 tablespoon isopropyl alcohol (optional, to boost alcohol content)
Mix the ingredients together until well combined. The aloe vera gel acts as a thickener and emollient, while the isopropyl alcohol can help boost the alcohol content if your Everclear is on the lower end of the ABV spectrum.
Safety Considerations
While it's possible to make hand sanitizer with Everclear, there are several safety considerations to keep in mind:
- Alcohol Content: Ensure your Everclear is at least 75.5% ABV. If it's lower, you'll need to adjust the recipe to maintain a minimum of 60% alcohol content.
- Skin Irritation: High concentrations of alcohol can cause skin irritation and dryness. Adding aloe vera gel can help mitigate this, but it's still important to use hand sanitizer sparingly and moisturize regularly.
- Flammability: Everclear is highly flammable. Be sure to store your homemade hand sanitizer in a cool, dry place away from heat sources and open flames.
Why Store-Bought Sanitizers Might Be Better
While it's possible to make hand sanitizer with Everclear, store-bought sanitizers have several advantages:
- They're formulated to be gentle on skin and effective against a wide range of germs.
- They're tested for safety and efficacy by the manufacturer.
- They're often easier to use and less messy than homemade sanitizers.
However, if you find yourself in a situation where store-bought sanitizers are unavailable, making your own with Everclear can be a viable alternative.
Final Thoughts
Can you make hand sanitizer with Everclear? Yes, but it's important to understand the process and the potential risks. Always prioritize safety and efficacy when making your own hand sanitizer. If possible, opt for store-bought sanitizers, but if you must make your own, follow the recipe and safety guidelines outlined above.
