Coronavirus is now the most deliberated issue all over the world because of the rate of infections and the level of challenges faced by the world government in combating this disease.
This viral disease, coronavirus, is also known as COVID-19 and it is an airborne disease that can be transmitted through sneezing, touching, and exchange of materials.
This disease is a pandemic issue i.e. it is a disease that is being faced in almost all parts of the world and it does not show forth any observable symptom or sign of the disease on the body – therefore, proper care is needed to be taken to combat this issue.
“Prevention is better than cure”, this has been the watchword of all health organizations and services around the world as it is much easier to battle this disease before being infected rather than after getting infected.
There have been some simple ways in which the coronavirus can be prevented and they include the use of nose masks, hand sanitizers, washing of the hands, and avoidance of large gatherings where the disease can easily spread.
Of the many ways in which the coronavirus can be prevented and battled, the use of hand sanitizer is one of the most effective ways in which these diseases can be controlled and properly gotten rid of.
Hand sanitizers are great ways of promoting cleanliness and healthiness since they are believed to have the ability to get rid of micro-organisms such as bacteria, and certain strains of viruses; note that even though not all viral diseases can be gotten rid of with the use of hand sanitizers, they help to safeguard people against COVID-19 – as long as the right ingredients are used.
Even though there are different kinds of hand sanitizers in the market today, there are ways in which you can know the right type to purchase during this challenging period and you can also prepare one for yourself with the help of our guide.
It is important to always stay clean and protected during the period of this pandemic disease and with the help of the research from the WHO (World Health Organization); we have been able to compile a way to make hand sanitizers by yourself at home.
In this article, we will take you through the process involved in preparing your own hand sanitizers so you should read further to learn more about it. Read and learn!
Types of Hand Sanitizers
Since we are dealing with a very serious issue – a pandemic issue affecting the whole world at large, it is important to note the different types of hand sanitizers that are available.
There are generally two types of hand sanitizers; Alcohol-based sanitizers and Normal sanitizers. In subsequent paragraphs, we will discuss the different types of hand sanitizers and it follows:
Alcohol-based hand sanitizers:
These types of hand sanitizers are prepared with alcohol being the main or major ingredient. Alcohols have a very high capability of killing micro-organisms and they can get rid of germs within 60 seconds of use.
However, the efficiency of these types of sanitizers depends on the percentage of alcohol present in the prepared volume.
Generally, sanitizers that are recommended for use to prevent infection by the viral disease, coronavirus must have alcohol content not less than 60%.
These sanitizers will help to eliminate all types of germs though they have limitations, they will certainly help with the fight against the coronavirus.
Normal hand sanitizers (not alcohol-based):
There are other types of sanitizers that are not based on alcohol but they also help in getting rid of germs – though with greater limitations.
They are perfect for use for everyday use after engaging in a dirty job at home. They are not effective in getting rid of any kind of virus so you should know what you are in to purchase.
NB: the best type of hand sanitizers to keep yourself in good health is those that are alcohol-based and we will teach you how to prepare yours with the right and necessary ingredients.
Ingredients needed for making Hand sanitizers
When you want to prepare the hand sanitizer for preventing coronavirus, there are some ingredients that you need to pay close attention to so as to get the most effective product possible. Below is the ingredient needed for making hand sanitizers:
Alcohol:
This makes up the largest portion of the whole product volume and they can make up to about 95 – 99 percent of the whole volume depending on the type being used.
This is the main ingredient that helps in getting rid of micro-organisms so it is of utmost importance. Some examples of alcohols that are recommended for use include ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, or rubbing alcohol.
Humectant:
This is a substance that helps with the retention of moisture and this is necessary so as to allow for the quick drying of the sanitizer after use. The choice of humectant that you decide to use must be one that is miscible in alcohol and water.
Make sure that the substance is one that will not cause any form of a toxic reaction to those who will use it and we recommend the use of glycerol – it is safe and non-toxic.
Hydrogen peroxide:
Even though this is not an active ingredient for your regular hand sanitizers, this is a major ingredient for getting rid of micro-organisms.
This substance helps to inactivate bacterial spores that can contaminate the solution and makes it highly functional and effective. It helps to prepare the solution ahead of its use for its peculiar purpose.
Boiled cold water or distilled water:
This is necessary for mixing and dilution and you must ensure that the water you are using is free of germs and dirt.
You should properly distill the water before use and boil clean, available water before use to kill any germs that may be present. Water with observable particles should be discarded.
How to make hand sanitizers with ease
Preparing hand sanitizers is a very easy operation to engage in you just have to be very careful when making our hand sanitizer.
Each ingredient requires specific volume to properly prepare an active and good sanitizer to combat micro-organisms; coronavirus being a major focus.
In the next paragraphs, we will take you through the required amount of each ingredient and the steps involved in making your hand sanitizers.
Recipe for 1-litre hand sanitizer
- Alcohol: Ethanol 96% (833.3 ml) or Isopropyl alcohol 99.8% (751.5 ml)
- Glycerol: 98% (14.5 ml)
- Hydrogen peroxide: 3% (41.7 ml).
NB: you can use either of the alcohols with the designated volume; however, the volume for both glycerol and still remains the same.
Note: the distilled water will take the remaining volume of the preparing container as it is necessary for mixing.
Materials needed for making Hand sanitizers
Below are the necessary materials needed for making your hand sanitizers:
- Container: a graduated container of appropriate size.
- Measuring cylinder.
- Mixer: paddle, spoon, or whisk.
- Funnel.
Steps involved in making Hand sanitizers
#1 – The alcohol, either the ethanol or isopropyl alcohol should be poured in a large bottle. Make sure to measure with a measuring cylinder to ensure accuracy.
#2 – Measure 41.7 ml of hydrogen peroxide and add to the alcohol in the container.
#3 – Add the glycerol to the cylinder. Note that the sticky remnant of the glycerol should be carefully rinsed with distilled water and added to the container.
#4 – The remaining part of the container should then be filled with distilled or boiled water.
#5 – Carefully cover the container to avoid spillover after preparing.
#6 – Mix the solution gently by shaking or use a paddle to thoroughly mix it up.
#7 – Distribute the solution into smaller containers (with lids), a spray bottle should do. Allow the bottles to stand in isolation for 72 hours so as to kill spores that might be present in the alcohol or the bottle that is being used.
#8 – After proper isolation, it is therefore recommended for use.
How to use Hand sanitizers
Knowing how to properly use your hand sanitizer is of great priority. Below is a guideline on how to effectively use hand sanitizers for the best outcome:
- Apply to the hand: the sanitizer should be carefully sprayed on the palm of one hand. There is no need to add it to both palms.
- Rub your hand: the two palms should be rubbed together and make sure that every part of the hand is carefully cleaned. Rub your fingers and palms effectively for 20 – 30 seconds.
- Allow to dry: allow your hands to dry after rubbing and the germs should be dead within 60 seconds of application.
NB: do not inhale when using and keep away from children.
Conclusion
Make sure to stay safe and protect yourself in every possible way. Remember; health is wealth!
Thank you for taking the time to read this article !