Hand sanitizer has become an everyday essential, whether you’re traveling, running errands, or simply don’t have access to soap and water. While washing your hands with soap and water is still the best way to remove dirt and germs, hand sanitizer can be a convenient alternative when you’re on the go.
Not all hand sanitizers are created equal, though. Some rely on unnecessary synthetic fragrances, harsh ingredients, or single-use plastic packaging, while others focus on simpler formulas, refillable options, and more thoughtfully sourced ingredients. That doesn’t necessarily make conventional hand sanitizer “bad,” but if you’re trying to make more sustainable choices, there are a few things worth looking for.
In this guide, we’ll answer some of the most common questions about hand sanitizer; including when you should use it, whether it’s actually bad for you, and what makes one option more sustainable than another.
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Why Use Hand Sanitizer?
Hand sanitizer is a convenient way to reduce germs when you don’t have access to soap and water. Whether you’re traveling, commuting, grocery shopping, or heading into work or school, it’s an easy way to clean your hands while you’re on the go.
According to the CDC, alcohol-based hand sanitizers containing at least 60% alcohol are the most effective at reducing many common germs when used correctly. However, hand sanitizer works best on hands that aren’t visibly dirty or greasy. Whenever possible, washing your hands with soap and water is still the gold standard. Hand sanitizer is meant to complement (not replace) regular handwashing, making it a helpful addition to your daily routine when a sink isn’t nearby.
Is Hand Sanitizer Bad for You?
In general, no. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are considered safe and effective when used as directed, and they can play an important role in reducing the spread of germs when soap and water aren’t available. That said, not all hand sanitizers are formulated the same. Some contain added ingredients (such as synthetic fragrances, artificial dyes, or other unnecessary additives) that some people prefer to avoid, particularly if they have sensitive skin.
One of the most common downsides of frequent hand sanitizer use is dry skin. Because alcohol can strip away some of your skin’s natural oils, many brands include moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera, glycerin, or plant-based oils to help keep hands soft and comfortable.
If you’re looking for a more sustainable or lower-tox option, we recommend choosing a hand sanitizer with a simple ingredient list, moisturizing ingredients, and minimal packaging whenever possible.
What Makes a Hand Sanitizer More Sustainable?
No hand sanitizer is completely impact-free, but some brands take meaningful steps to reduce their environmental footprint. If sustainability is important to you, here are a few things we look for before recommending a product.
1. Thoughtful Ingredients
Many of our favorite hand sanitizers are made with simple, effective formulas that prioritize high-quality ingredients. While alcohol is the active ingredient that helps kill germs, some brands also incorporate plant-derived alcohol, soothing aloe vera, vegetable glycerin, and botanical extracts to help keep skin hydrated and comfortable with frequent use.
2. Lower-Impact Packaging
Packaging can make a big difference. We prefer brands that use recycled plastic, aluminum bottles, refill pouches, or refillable containers to help reduce single-use waste. Minimal, recyclable packaging is another plus.
3. Responsible Brand Practices
Beyond the product itself, it’s worth considering how a brand operates. We appreciate companies that are transparent about their ingredients, use organic ingredients when appropriate, are cruelty-free, and prioritize responsible manufacturing practices. While no brand is perfect, these efforts can help you make a more informed purchasing decision.
Our Favorite Non-Toxic & Natural Hand Sanitizers:
1. Paume
Price: $14
What sets PAUME apart is their use of a special plant-based formula that not only effectively cleans your hands but also keeps them moisturized. The addition of their signature blend of essential oils not only leaves your hands feeling fresh but also provides a delightful aroma. You have the option to choose from a convenient travel-size hand sanitizer or a home pump. If you can’t decide, there’s a bundle available which includes both, along with a refill bag containing enough sanitizer to fill five travel bottles.
2. Attitude
Price: $9.95
This antiseptic hand sanitizer is perfect for your little ones. It’s vegan and designed to fight germs and bacteria while being gentle on kids’ delicate skin. This hand sanitizer has been verified by the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and has been dermatologically tested. It contains ethanol with antiseptic properties to effectively eliminate germs and bacteria, ensuring that your kids’ hands stay clean and healthy. You can find it in three delightful scents: Vanilla & Pear, Mango, and Watermelon & Coco. They also offer hand sanitizers for adults in three refreshing scents.
3. Public Goods
Price: $7.95
This hand sanitizer is designed to be gentle yet effective, making it suitable for use by both adults and kids, including those with sensitive skin. It contains 62% ethyl alcohol, which is the amount recommended by the FDA for effectively killing germs. In addition, it includes glycerin and aloe vera, which work together to soften and moisturize the skin, helping to prevent dryness and irritation. This product is free from harsh chemicals such as triclosan and benzalkonium chloride, making it a safe choice for regular use.
4. Grove
Price: $4.50
This travel size hand sanitizer is a convenient and eco-friendly option as it can be easily refilled with their 75oz size. The advanced formula has been proven to effectively eliminate 99.9% of common germs in just 30 seconds, all while moisturizing your skin. The added moisturizing ingredients, including aloe, coconut, jojoba, and sunflower seed oils, work to keep your skin hydrated and soft. Additionally, the invigorating blood orange scent, derived from essential oils and natural ingredients, provides a refreshing fragrance!
5. Honest
Price: $4
This hypoallergenic formula has been rigorously tested by dermatologists and is designed to dry quickly upon application, leaving no sticky residue behind. Crafted with a blend of naturally-derived glycerin and aloe, their sanitizer not only effectively cleanses but also helps to keep your skin feeling soft and moisturized. Honest’s product is proudly made in the USA, using a combination of domestic and imported materials to ensure the highest quality. You can be rest assured knowing their Fragrance Free, Grapefruit Grove, and Lavender Field scents are EWG Verified!
Ingredients We Try to Avoid
While alcohol is the key ingredient that makes hand sanitizer effective, some formulas include additional ingredients that many consumers prefer to limit or avoid. Here are a few we typically look out for when choosing a hand sanitizer.
1. Synthetic Fragrance
“Fragrance” can refer to a mixture of many different ingredients, and companies aren’t always required to disclose what’s included. If you have sensitive skin or simply prefer fewer additives, fragrance-free options may be worth considering.
2. Artificial Dyes
Artificial colors don’t improve how well a hand sanitizer works; they’re simply added for appearance. If you prefer simpler formulations, choosing a dye-free product can help reduce unnecessary ingredients.
3. Unnecessary Preservatives
Some hand sanitizers contain preservatives to help extend shelf life or maintain product stability. While preservatives can serve an important purpose, we generally gravitate toward formulas with fewer unnecessary additives whenever possible.
4. Triclosan
Triclosan is an antibacterial ingredient that was once common in many personal care products. In the United States, it is no longer permitted in over-the-counter consumer antibacterial soaps because manufacturers did not demonstrate that it was safe and more effective than soap and water. While triclosan is much less common in hand sanitizers today, it’s still an ingredient we recommend avoiding if you come across it.
5. Parabens
Some people choose to avoid parabens due to ongoing research into their potential endocrine-disrupting effects. While the current evidence is still evolving and regulatory agencies continue to evaluate their safety, many brands now offer paraben-free formulas for those who prefer to minimize their exposure.
Does Natural Hand Sanitizer Actually Work?
Yes; natural hand sanitizer can be just as effective as conventional options, provided it contains at least 60% alcohol. According to public health guidance, alcohol is the active ingredient responsible for reducing many common germs when soap and water aren’t available.
The “natural” ingredients in a hand sanitizer (such as aloe vera, vegetable glycerin, and botanical extracts) don’t replace the alcohol or make the product more effective at killing germs. Instead, they’re included to help soothe and moisturize the skin, making frequent use a little gentler on your hands.
You’ll also come across alcohol-free hand sanitizers, but these generally aren’t as effective against many germs. If you’re looking for a sanitizer that’s both effective and made with more thoughtfully sourced ingredients, choose an alcohol-based formula with at least 60% alcohol and a simple ingredient list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is natural hand sanitizer effective?
Yes, as long as it contains at least 60% alcohol. The alcohol is what makes hand sanitizer effective at reducing many common germs, while ingredients like aloe vera and vegetable glycerin help support your skin.
What is the healthiest hand sanitizer?
The best hand sanitizer is one that contains at least 60% alcohol and has a simple, thoughtfully formulated ingredient list. We typically look for options made with moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera and glycerin, while avoiding unnecessary fragrances and artificial dyes when possible.
Can hand sanitizer dry out your skin?
Yes. Frequent use of alcohol-based hand sanitizer can remove some of your skin’s natural oils, leading to dryness. Choosing a formula with moisturizing ingredients and applying hand cream throughout the day can help keep your hands hydrated.
Is organic hand sanitizer better?
Not necessarily. Organic ingredients can be a nice bonus, especially for botanical ingredients like aloe vera, but what matters most is that the sanitizer contains at least 60% alcohol and is formulated to be both effective and gentle on the skin.
Is alcohol-free hand sanitizer effective?
Alcohol-free hand sanitizers are generally not as effective as alcohol-based formulas at reducing many common germs. If soap and water aren’t available, the CDC recommends using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol.
Can I use hand sanitizer every day?
Yes. Daily use of alcohol-based hand sanitizer is considered safe when used as directed. If you use it frequently, look for moisturizing formulas and remember that hand sanitizer is meant to complement (not replace) washing your hands with soap and water.
What alcohol percentage should hand sanitizer contain?
For effective germ reduction, choose a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Products with lower alcohol concentrations may not be as effective.
Hi
During these tough times in covid, sanitizers have become an essential part of our day to day lives. Thanks for sharing this amazing information with us.
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