![DIY hand sanitizer recipe](https://img.hunkercdn.com/375/clsd/3/4/fc1510fc65234360afe364c04d1bd84d.jpg)
Ed. note: This story has been updated with new ingredients to reflect a more effective solution. We want to be clear that this DIY is a suggestion if you can't find the hardcore stuff. Washing your hands with soap and water is a highly effective method of protecting against viruses, per the CDC. Hand sanitizer should be used when soap and water is unavailable and should contain at least 60% alcohol, per the CDC. The solution we're suggesting should contain about 66% alcohol.
These days, hand sanitizer can be hard to come by. If you're having a tough time coming up with a bulk supply, fear not: You can easily make your own, however, it will require access to rubbing alcohol, or isopropyl alcohol, which is also in high demand. You will need isopropyl alcohol with a very high concentration intended for technical use — most drugstore rubbing alcohol has a 70% concentration.
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Things You'll Need
1/3 cup aloe vera gel
5-10 drops of essential oil
Directions for DIY Hand Sanitizer:
![DIY hand sanitizer recipe](https://img.hunkercdn.com/375/clsd/3/4/0ebff0cf5fc64d1aa225224da065c94c.jpg)
It's easy! Simply mix together the aloe vera gel and alcohol and add a few drops of your chosen essential oil, if you want to give it some fragrance. (We experimented with lavender and rosemary essential oils, combining the two for a very herby-floral scent.)
![DIY hand sanitizer recipe](https://img.hunkercdn.com/375/clsd/3/4/50759f8eeed143589f595eb5d60365de.jpg)
House in an old dish soap bottle or reusable soap dispenser.
![DIY hand sanitizer recipe](https://img.hunkercdn.com/375/clsd/3/4/543d555b64c5475b9b70fe02de14d871.jpg)
The gel and liquid may separate a bit so you'll just want to give it a shake before using. Travel shampoo bottles also make it portable!
![DIY hand sanitizer recipe](https://img.hunkercdn.com/375/clsd/3/4/98b1c09d8c114ad2930b0a3b48182676.jpg)
Stay healthy (and germ-free!).