The 10 Best Hand Sanitizers That Are Safe And Effective – 2024
Sue Murphy is a highly skilled and board-certified registered nurse with an extensive 35-year tenure in the acute care setting. She has a wealth of experience spanning various healthcare environments and spent 15 years in the Intensive Care Unit, honing her expertise in critical care.
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Aditi Naskar has a postgraduate degree in English literature from Presidency University, Kolkata, a bachelor’s degree in education from WBUTTEPA, Kolkata, and a diploma in health and wellness. She is an associate commerce editor with 5 years of experience and specializes in reviewing fitness and health products.
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Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.
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In This Article
Soap alone is not enough to wash your hands entirely and kill all bacteria. Using hand sanitizer makes the washing more effective (1). With the ever-mutating coronavirus, washing your hands and belongings as frequently as possible is one of the best ways of staying protected. The WHO also recommends using hand sanitizers to keep the COVID virus at bay (2).The pandemic saw a surge in the use of hand sanitizers that played a crucial role in controlling the spread of infection. The pandemic saw a surge in the use of hand sanitizers that played a crucial role in controlling the spread of infection. The CDC, in their guidelines, has suggested that hand sanitizer with 60% or more alcohol concentration is best for protection from the virus (3). Here is our list of the best hand sanitizers that you can use.
[table “1187” not found /]What Is Hand Sanitizer?
Hand sanitizer is a gel or liquid formula that helps decrease the number of infectious microorganisms on the hands. It may or may not contain alcohol. Hand sanitizers are an excellent option for killing or deactivating harmful and contagious microbes that cause diseases.
The WHO, CDC, and FDA recommend using hand sanitizers with 60% or more alcohol content. However, in case you cannot get your hands on a hand sanitizer that contains alcohol, you may also opt for a non-alcoholic hand sanitizer. Here’s a list of sanitizers that you can buy right now.
10 Best Hand Sanitizers To Keep Germs Away
1. Best Overall: Bronner’s Peppermint Organic Hand Sanitizer
The Dr. Bronner’s Peppermint Organic Hand Sanitizer is formulated with organic ethyl alcohol that kills bacteria and germs while keeping your hands free of toxins. The personal care product also contains organic glycerin that moisturizes your hands, while the peppermint oil rejuvenates your mind and reduces stress. Reviewers have noticed that the refreshing scent adds a pleasant touch to the multipurpose sanitizer. You can also use this sanitizer as a deodorizer or room freshener. They come in travel-size bottles for on-the-go protection. This hand sanitizer is not tested on animals, which makes it ideal for people seeking ethically conscious sanitizing options.
Pros
- USDA-certified organic ingredients
- Kills 99.9% of germs
- Pleasant fragrance
- Travel-friendly packaging
- Cruelty-free
- Vegan
- Non-GMO
- Ethanol-free
- No petrochemical thickeners
Cons
- Expensive
Stylecraze Says
Always keep a hand cream handy to moisturize your hands if you use sanitizer multiple times daily.
Stylecraze Says2. Best Cruelty-Free: Mountain Falls Advanced Hand Sanitizer With Vitamin E
Mountain Falls is a cruelty-free and moisturizing hand-sanitizing formula. It comes in a handy bottle with a pump. It is a must-have for maintaining hygienic hands, with its transparent formula providing effective germ control. You get 8 fl oz (236 ml) product per bottle, and it is made in the USA. Ethically conscious people are obsessed with this product because it does not undergo animal testing.
Pros
- 70% ethyl alcohol
- Kills 99.9% germs
- Cruelty-free
- Gluten-free
- Paraben-free
- Leaves your hands feeling soft
- Pleasant fragrance
- Easy pump dispenser
Cons
- Flammable
- May cause skin irritation
- May discolor fabrics
- Not good for wood and plastic
- May irritate skin that has cuts
3. Best Fast-Acting Formula: Amazon Basics Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer
The Amazon Basics Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer contains 62% ethyl alcohol. It kills more than 99.99% of harmful germs in 15 seconds. The quick-acting formula is infused with vitamin E that keeps your hands moisturized and soft while protecting them against free radicals. Its rinse-free formula allows for convenient and quick use, ensuring all-day protection against illness-causing germs. As per reviews on online forums, the soothing citrusy scent revitalizes your mind and keeps your hands feeling fresh.
Pros
- Kills 99.99% of germs
- Pleasant fragrance
- Non-drying
- Value for money
Cons
- None
Bronner’s Peppermint Organic Hand Sanitizer Best Overall | Mountain Falls Advanced Hand Sanitizer With Vitamin E Best Cruelty-Free | Amazon Basics Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer Best Fast-Acting Formula | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Number of Items | 1 | 1 | 1 |
| Dimensions | - | - | 4.47 x 4.47 x 10.96 inches |
| Weight | - | - | 4.18 Pounds. |
| Rating | |||
| Reviews | 68 | 772 | 1,091 |
| Price | - | - | $11.35 |
| Buy Now | Buy Now | Buy Now |
4. Best Quick-Drying:Solimo Hand Sanitizer With Vitamin E And Aloe
Solimo is an Amazon brand. There are four different varieties of this hand sanitizer, and all of them contain soothing aloe vera. This non-greasy and pH-balanced formula is safe for frequent use. The color and feel of the bottle is semi-luxurious. You get 32 fl oz (946 ml) of product per bottle. This video details a tester’s experience with the formula. Watch it to gain a better insight into the formula.
Pros
- 70% ethyl alcohol
- Kills 99.99% germs
- Contains aloe vera
- Contains vitamin E
- Dries quickly
- Easy pump dispenser
- Great value for money
Cons
- Strong fragrance
- Flammable
- May cause skin irritation
5. Best Moisturizing:Hempz Moisturizing Herbal Hand Sanitizer
The Hempz Moisturizing Herbal Hand Sanitizer contains triple moisture serum that nourishes and hydrates the skin. It is enriched with coconut oil, apple extract, avocado, mango seed butter, and vitamin C that have strong medicinal properties and kill about 99% of germs. This hand sanitizer contains 100% pure hemp seed oil that treats itchiness, reduces dryness, and soothes red skin. This non-sticky formula housed in convenient packaging can be easily carried wherever you go. Watch this video to learn more about a reviewer’s experience with the product.
Pros
- Kills 99% of germs
- Soothes redness and itchiness
- Vegan
- Paraben-free
- Gluten-free
- THC-free
Cons
- Unpleasant fragrance
Pro Tip
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
With over 2,941 reviews, this product has become a fan favorite among users.
6. Best For Sensitive Skin:safeHands Hand Sanitizer
The safeHands hand sanitizer helps protect your skin from pet germs, bacterial infection, and environmental contact while keeping the hand soft. It is infused with benzalkonium chloride, a doctor-approved antiseptic that effectively kills 99.99% of germs without any dryness. The foam-based product provides twice as many uses as gel hand sanitizer. As a trusted brand, it is FDA-approved and non-irritating, ensuring the safety and comfort of your skin. It is free of harsh ingredients and safe for even the most sensitive skin. Click here to check out a detailed video of this product based on a reviewer’s experience with it.
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Gentle formula
- Kills 99.99% of germs
- Safe for sensitive skin
- Fragrance-free
- Non-toxic
- Non-flammable
- Dye-free
Cons
- None
7. Best Non-Drying:Pura D’or Hand Sanitizer Gel
The Pura D’or Hand Sanitizer Gel has a 70% alcohol-based formula. It also contains organic aloe vera gel and vitamin E to keep your hands soft and prevent dryness. The essential oils of tea tree, peppermint, and lemongrass deep cleanse your hands, offer therapeutic protection, and impart a soothing fragrance. This family-friendly hygienic solution prevents the spread of illness efficiently.
Pros
- Convenient pump dispenser
- Non-drying
- Pleasant fragrance
- Non-toxic
- Cruelty-free
Cons
- Sticky consistency
8. Best Pleasant Fragrance: EO Hand Sanitizer
The EO Hand Sanitizer is a gel-based formula that contains 62% organic alcohol. It keeps your hands free of germs and toxic irritants. It is infused with soothing lavender essential oil that revitalizes your senses and moisture-rich jojoba oil that keeps your hands soft. Vegetable glycerin keeps your hands hydrated and restores their youthful radiance. This hand sanitizer is also enriched with a refreshing blend of eucalyptus and lemon that calms your senses. It is hypoallergenic and is safe for children.
Pros
- EWG-verified
- Gentle formula
- Non-drying
- Sulfate-free
- Gluten-free
- Cruelty-free
- Recyclable packaging
Cons
- Sticky
9. Best Travel-Friendly:Babyganics Alcohol-Free Foaming Hand Sanitizer
Babyganics is an alcohol-free foaming hand sanitizer. It does not dry out the skin. This dermatologist tested hand sanitizer comes in a cute pale green and white bottle with a pump. The small portable bottle design is travel-friendly. You get 8.45 fl oz (250 ml) of the product per bottle.
Pros
- Alcohol-free
- Kid-friendly
- Paraben-, sulfate-, and phthalate-free
- Kills 99.99% germs
- Does not contain artificial dyes or fragrances
- Foaming and moisturizing formula
- Non-allergenic
- Suitable for people with sensitive and dry skin
- Easy pump dispenser
Cons
- Does not contain certified organic ingredients as claimed by the company
- May cause skin irritation
10. Best Fragrance-Free:Suave Hand Sanitizer Spray
This alcohol-based Suave Hand Sanitizer Spray is specially formulated to kill germs and bacteria effectively. It reduces bacteria on the hands with proven expertise, and you can use this in place of soap and water. Do not rinse your palms after using this gel formula spray. The sanitizer is available in 2, 8, 10, and 12 ounces.
Pros
- No artificial fragrance
- Easy to use
- Kills 99.9% germs
Cons
- May dry your skin
These are the 10 best hand sanitizers to buy in 2024. If these are not available now, you may also consider buying the following hand sanitizers.
Other Suggested Hand Sanitizers
- WBM LLC 1 Natural Hand Sanitizer Kit
Buy Now! - Antibacterial Travel Hand Sanitizer Gel with Aloe Vera by L’Autre PEAU
Buy Now! - Clorox Hand Sanitizer Spray
Buy Now! - Instant Hand Sanitizer Gel
Buy Now!
The CDC has provided specific instructions on how to use a hand sanitizer for maximum germ removal (4). If you do not possess first-hand knowledge in using one, scroll down for the step-by-step guide.
How To Use Hand Sanitizer To Reduce Germs?
Step 1
: Use soap and water to wash your hands thoroughly.
Do it every time you touch any surface, cough, sneeze, before and after cooking, after touching someone who is sick, before and after treating a cut, after throwing away garbage, before touching a newborn baby, after changing diapers, and after cleaning animal waste. Sue Murphy, a registered nurse, says, “An effective hand washing routine should take approx 20 seconds.”
Step 2: Apply the gel product to the palm of one hand (read the label to learn the correct amount). Rub your hands quickly, and let it dry. Cover all surfaces of hands.
Do it if you have visited someone at the hospital, if soap and water are not available (if your hands are visibly dirty, you need to use soap and water), after touching any surface, and after using the washroom.
Apart from this two-step hand sanitizing process, the CDC has issued special instructions to follow during the COVID-19 pandemic (5). Take a look.
Hand Hygiene And Other Preventive Measures
- Take utmost care to not touch your eyes, face, nose, or mouth after touching a surface.
- For the best user experience, wash your hands with soap and water before using a hand sanitizer.
- Use an EPA-registered cleaner to clean the most touched surfaces like doorknobs, tables, handles, tap faucets, sinks, and light switches.
- Avoid placing your mobile phones on surfaces that are not disinfected.
- Wear gloves and a face mask while cleaning surfaces.
- Maintain distance from any person showing possible symptoms.
- Use a separate bathroom from that of a person showing flu symptoms.
- If there is no separate bathroom, wash and disinfect the bathroom each time after the person with flu symptoms uses it.
- Disinfect all surfaces at home using bleach. Dilute the bleach before using it.
- Wash dirty clothes, curtains, and carpets with warm water. Avoid shaking dirty clothes.
- Avoid going to crowded places like gyms, pubs, movie theaters, malls, etc.
- Avoid close contact with any person showing flu symptoms.
- Get yourself checked immediately if you experience the symptoms of COVID-19.
Before we come to a close, here’s a list of precautions to take before using hand sanitizers. Check them out below.
Precautions While Using Hand Sanitizer
- Keep alcohol-based hand sanitizers in cooler temperatures.
- Do not use drying hand sanitizers if you have dry or sensitive skin. Alcohol-based sanitizers can aggravate dry skin problems.
- Keep hand sanitizers out of children’s reach.
- You can use the unscented version if you are sensitive to smell or have sensitive skin.
- Do not touch your eyes right after using hand sanitizer.
- Use hand sanitizers only for external applications.
- If your skin gets inflamed, seek medical help immediately.
- If you drink hand sanitizer accidentally, rush to the nearest hospital.
- Avoid using it if you have any cuts on your hands.
The Bottom Line
Maintaining hand hygiene is very important to stop the spread of infectious germs and lower the risk of various diseases. At this time of the WHO-declared novel coronavirus, pandemic, you must be more careful. The sanitizers reviewed in this article will keep you and your family safe. These are gentle yet effective and are free of harsh chemicals. If you are looking for one with complete organic ingredients, try the Bronner’s Peppermint Organic Hand Sanitizer. The SafeHands Hand Sanitizer is a reliable choice and has been clinically proven to kill 99.99% of germs. For babies and young children, the Babyganics Alcohol-Free Foaming Hand Sanitizer is a safe, gentle, and suitable choice. Sanitize your hands and take other measures to keep yourself and others safe. You can also choose hand sanitizers that are recommended by your personal healthcare specialist to remain completely safe from the ones that are not ideal for you. Take care!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better – soap or hand sanitizer?
To remove dirt and germs from our hands, soap and water work better than hand sanitizer. Hand sanitizers are for a quick de-germing when your hands are more or less clean.
How long does it take for hand sanitizer to kill germs?
Hand sanitizer kills 99.9% of germs in just a few seconds.
How many times can I use alcohol-based hand rubs?
You can use alcohol-based hand rubs many times throughout the day. However, do note that they are not an alternative to hand washing.
How long do the effects of hand sanitizer last once applied?
Hand sanitizer last for 1-2 minutes once applied. And then germs start accumulating on your hands again.
Is it OK to apply sanitizer on the face?
No, it is not safe to use hand sanitizer on the face because the ingredients in the sanitizer can be harsh for the gentle facial skin.
Can you touch your eyes after using hand sanitizer?
No, you should not touch your eyes immediately after using hand sanitizer because the alcohol in the sanitizer may cause a burning sensation in your eyes.
Can I use hand sanitizer on my disposable gloves?
No. This can adversely affect the material of the gloves compromising the integrity and potentially exposing the hands to germs
References
Articles on thebridalbox are backed by verified information from peer-reviewed and academic research papers, reputed organizations, research institutions, and medical associations to ensure accuracy and relevance. Read our editorial policy to learn more.
- Reynolds, Scott A et al. “Hand sanitizer alert.” Emerging infectious diseases vol. 12,3 (2006): 527-9. doi:10.3201/eid1203.050955
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3291447/ - “Water, Sanitation, Hygiene and Waste Management for COVID-19.” World Health Organization.
https://www.who.int/publications-detail/water-sanitation-hygiene-and-waste-management-for-covid-19 - Alcohol Sanitizer
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513254/ - “Handwashing and Hand Sanitizer Use at Home, at Play, and Out and About.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/pdf/hand-sanitizer-factsheet.pdf - Current knowledge of COVID-19 and infection prevention and control strategies in healthcare settings: A global analysis
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7253768/
- Reynolds, Scott A et al. “Hand sanitizer alert.” Emerging infectious diseases vol. 12,3 (2006): 527-9. doi:10.3201/eid1203.050955
- Reynolds, Scott A et al. “Hand sanitizer alert.” Emerging infectious diseases vol. 12,3 (2006): 527-9. doi:10.3201/eid1203.050955
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3291447/ - “Water, Sanitation, Hygiene and Waste Management for COVID-19.” World Health Organization.
https://www.who.int/publications-detail/water-sanitation-hygiene-and-waste-management-for-covid-19 - Alcohol Sanitizer
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513254/ - “Handwashing and Hand Sanitizer Use at Home, at Play, and Out and About.” Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
https://www.cdc.gov/handwashing/pdf/hand-sanitizer-factsheet.pdf - Current knowledge of COVID-19 and infection prevention and control strategies in healthcare settings: A global analysis
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7253768/
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