Alternatives to Hand Sanitizer: Keeping Your Hands Clean and Germ-Free

In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, hand sanitizers have become a hot commodity. While hand sanitizers are an effective way to keep your hands clean and germ-free, they may not always be the best option for everyone. 

Here are some alternatives to hand sanitizers that you can use to keep your hands clean and healthy.

Why Look for Alternatives to Hand Sanitizers?

While hand sanitizers are effective, they're not always the best option. Here are some reasons why you might want to consider using alternatives:

Skin Sensitivity

Hand sanitizers contain high levels of alcohol, which can be harsh on the skin. If you have sensitive skin or a skin condition, using hand sanitizers may cause irritation or dryness.

Harmful Chemicals

Some hand sanitizers contain harmful chemicals, such as triclosan, that can harm your health and the environment. Using these sanitizers frequently can increase your risk of developing health problems.

Residue Build-Up

Some of the lower cost hand sanitizers can leave a greasy-feeling residue on your skin that some people do not enjoy.

Alternatives to Hand Sanitizers

If you're looking for alternatives to hand sanitizers, here are some options that are just as effective:

Soap and Water

Washing your hands with soap and water is the best way to keep them clean and germ-free. Soap works by breaking down the lipid membrane of viruses and bacteria, effectively killing them. However, the down-side of this requires you to be clean, running water with soap, which may not always be available.

Hand Wipes

Hand wipes are a convenient alternative to hand sanitizers. They're portable, easy to use, and can be used to clean your hands on-the-go.

Hand Gloves

If you're concerned about coming into contact with germs, wearing hand gloves is a great alternative. Gloves provide a barrier between your hands and the outside world, preventing the spread of germs.

UV-C Sanitizing Lights (For Items)

UV-C light destroys the bonds in the DNA of the bacteria and viruses killing them. It is a known surgical disinfectant system used by hospitals since the 1920s. Although not recommended for use in the application which would clean hands, it's an alternative to killing germs on objects and worth mentioning.

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Conclusion

Keeping your hands clean and germ-free is essential for staying healthy, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. While hand sanitizers are a great option, they're not the only way to keep your hands clean. Use the alternatives listed above to keep your hands clean and healthy.

FAQs

Are hand sanitizers safe for children?

Hand sanitizers can be safe for children as long as they're used under adult supervision. However, it's important to use child-friendly hand sanitizers that are alcohol-free.

Can essential oils be used as hand sanitizers?

Some essential oils have antibacterial properties and can be used to keep your hands clean. However, they're not as effective as hand sanitizers.