Keeping your hands clean and moisturized is essential, and doing it naturally is even better! This listicle explores easy DIY hand sanitizers and soaps that you can make right at home.
Ditch the harsh chemicals found in many store-bought products and embrace nourishing ingredients like castile soap, essential oils, and aloe vera for soft, clean hands..
1. Alcohol-Free Foaming Hand Sanitizer with Witch Hazel
This gentle, alcohol-free foaming hand sanitizer is a fantastic on-the-go option for keeping hands clean without drying them out.
Made with castile soap to cleanse and witch hazel to soften, it's a super easy recipe that leaves your hands feeling refreshed.
Plus, adding your favorite essential oils makes it smell amazing!.
Key Ingredients:
- Castile Soap
- Witch Hazel
- Essential Oils
- Water
- Foaming Bottle
Benefits:
- Cleanses hands
- Softens skin
- Alcohol-free
Pro Tip: While this recipe is great for general cleaning at home or on the go, the CDC recommends alcohol-based sanitizers for combating contagious viruses.
Get the Recipe: Alcohol-Free Foaming Hand Sanitizer with Witch Hazel
2. Non-Toxic Foaming Hand Soap with Castile Soap and Essential Oils
Whip up this luxurious foaming hand soap in minutes using just a few simple ingredients! It's non-toxic, cost-effective, and leaves your hands feeling clean and smelling wonderful thanks to the addition of essential oils.
Castile soap is a gentle base that won't dry out your skin, making it a must-try for everyday use..
Key Ingredients:
- Dr. Bronner's Pure Castile Soap
- Essential Oils
- Water
- Foaming Soap Dispenser
Benefits:
- Non-toxic
- Cost-effective
- Gentle on skin
Pro Tip: You can use unscented castile soap and add your favorite essential oils for a custom scent, or opt for a pre-scented castile soap for an even simpler approach.
Get the Recipe: Non-Toxic Foaming Hand Soap with Castile Soap and Essential Oils
3. Simple All-Natural Foaming Hand Soap Recipe
Say goodbye to harsh chemicals and dry hands with this incredibly easy all-natural foaming hand soap! It requires just two main ingredients and a minute to make.
Your kids will love the foamy lather, and you'll love knowing you're using only gentle, skin-loving ingredients.
Plus, you can customize the scent with essential oils!.
Key Ingredients:
- Unscented Castile Soap
- Filtered Water
- Essential Oils
Benefits:
- Gentle cleansing
- No toxic ingredients
- Cost-saving
Pro Tip: For an extra moisturizing boost, try adding a tablespoon of fractionated coconut oil and a few drops of Vitamin E oil to this recipe.
Get the Recipe: Simple All-Natural Foaming Hand Soap Recipe
4. 2-Ingredient Natural Foaming Hand Soap
Making your own natural foaming hand soap has never been easier! With just two core ingredients, you can create a wonderfully foamy soap that's gentle on your skin and better for the environment.
It’s a great way to save money and reduce plastic waste by reusing your foaming soap bottles..
Key Ingredients:
- Liquid Castile Soap
- Distilled Water
- Foaming Hand Soap Pump
Benefits:
- Cost-effective
- Environmentally friendly
- Reduces plastic waste
Pro Tip: Add a teaspoon of a lightweight oil like grapeseed or sweet almond oil for a touch of extra moisture, or a tablespoon of vegetable glycerin to thicken the soap slightly.
Get the Recipe: 2-Ingredient Natural Foaming Hand Soap
5. Easy DIY Foaming Hand Soap with Castile Soap
This super simple DIY foaming hand soap recipe will have you ditching store-bought versions in no time! With just three natural ingredients, you can make a batch that's gentle on your skin and saves you money.
It's a fantastic way to avoid questionable chemicals and enjoy a clean, fresh scent with essential oils..
Key Ingredients:
- Castile Soap
- Water
- Essential Oils
Benefits:
- Saves money
- All-natural ingredients
- Customizable scent
Pro Tip: Castile soap is biodegradable and highly concentrated, making a little go a long way and keeping this recipe incredibly affordable.
Get the Recipe: Easy DIY Foaming Hand Soap with Castile Soap
6. All-Natural Hand Sanitizer Spray with Essential Oils
Keep germs at bay with this all-natural, non-toxic hand sanitizer spray.
It's quick to make and a great alternative to conventional sanitizers filled with harsh chemicals.
Infused with essential oils for their cleansing properties, this spray is convenient for on-the-go use and leaves your hands feeling refreshed..
Key Ingredients:
- Rubbing Alcohol
- Vegetable Glycerin
- Essential Oils
Benefits:
- All-natural
- Non-toxic
- Convenient for travel
Pro Tip: Store your homemade hand sanitizer in dark-colored glass bottles to protect the essential oils from degrading in sunlight.
Get the Recipe: All-Natural Hand Sanitizer Spray with Essential Oils
7. Kid-Friendly Natural DIY Hand Sanitizer
Protect your family with this simple, all-natural DIY hand sanitizer recipe! It uses kid-safe essential oils and nourishing ingredients like aloe vera gel to cleanse hands effectively without harsh chemicals.
This is a great option for added protection when soap and water aren't readily available..
Key Ingredients:
- High-proof alcohol
- Distilled water
- Aloe vera gel
- Essential oils
Benefits:
- Kid-friendly
- Natural ingredients
- Anti-bacterial properties
Pro Tip: While this DIY sanitizer is great for general use, remember that washing hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is always the most effective way to remove germs.
Get the Recipe: Kid-Friendly Natural DIY Hand Sanitizer
8. Nourishing DIY Hand Sanitizer Spray with Witch Hazel
This DIY hand sanitizer spray is a nourishing, natural alternative to conventional sanitizers that often leave hands dry.
Made with witch hazel and vitamin E oil, it gently sanitizes while also moisturizing your skin.
It's quick to make and customizable with your favorite essential oil blends for a lovely, natural scent..
Key Ingredients:
- Isopropyl alcohol
- Witch hazel
- Vitamin E oil
- Essential oil blend
Benefits:
- Moisturizing
- Skin-friendly
- Natural scent
Pro Tip: For a gentler scent, especially for younger children, consider using milder essential oils like lavender or chamomile, or simply reduce the number of drops.
Get the Recipe: Nourishing DIY Hand Sanitizer Spray with Witch Hazel
9. DIY Hand Sanitizer Spray with Essential Oils (with Alcohol)
When you need a powerful hand sanitizer on the go, this DIY spray recipe with alcohol is a great option.
Infused with antibacterial essential oils, it helps keep germs at bay.
This recipe ensures at least 60% alcohol content for effective germ-killing, making it a reliable choice when soap and water aren't available..
Key Ingredients:
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Distilled water
- Essential oils
Benefits:
- Effective germ-killing
- Quick-drying
- Portable
Pro Tip: If you prefer an alcohol-free option for everyday use, a recipe with aloe vera gel and essential oils is also provided in the original post, though it's less effective for disease control.
Get the Recipe: DIY Hand Sanitizer Spray with Essential Oils (with Alcohol)
10. Alcohol-Free Hand Sanitizer with Aloe and Essential Oils
This moisturizing hand sanitizer is a wonderful alcohol-free option, perfect for keeping your hands soft and germ-free.
It uses soothing aloe vera to combat dryness and a blend of essential oils for their natural germ-fighting power and a lovely scent.
It's a gentle yet effective choice for everyday use, leaving your hands feeling clean without that tight, dry sensation..
Key Ingredients:
- Aloe Vera Gel
- Essential Oils
Benefits:
- Moisturizing
- Alcohol-Free
- Soothing
- Germ-Fighting
Pro Tip: If you prefer a slightly thicker consistency, you can add a tiny bit more aloe vera gel.
Get the Recipe: Alcohol-Free Hand Sanitizer with Aloe and Essential Oils
11. Simple Aloe Vera and Essential Oil Hand Sanitizer
Whip up this super simple hand sanitizer with just aloe vera gel and essential oils.
It's a quick and easy recipe that's perfect for on-the-go freshness.
The aloe vera keeps your hands feeling comfortable and hydrated, while the essential oils add a natural germ-fighting boost and a delightful aroma.
It’s a must-try for a refreshing clean anytime..
Key Ingredients:
- Aloe Vera Gel
- Essential Oils (Lemon, Clove, Lemongrass)
Benefits:
- Moisturizing
- Natural Germ-Fighting
- Pleasant Scent
- Easy to Make
Pro Tip: Experiment with different essential oil combinations to find your favorite scent, like lavender for calm or lemon for an energizing boost.
Get the Recipe: Simple Aloe Vera and Essential Oil Hand Sanitizer
12. Liquid Hand Sanitizer with Alcohol and Moisturizers
This liquid hand sanitizer recipe is designed to be effective and quick-drying, making it perfect for use on hands and other surfaces.
It includes ingredients like glycerin or liquid coconut oil to help keep your hands from feeling dry.
With its light texture, it's a practical choice for sanitizing on the go, ensuring your hands feel clean and cared for..
Key Ingredients:
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Glycerin or Liquid Coconut Oil
- Witch Hazel or Hydrogen Peroxide
- Distilled Water
Benefits:
- Quick-Drying
- Moisturizing
- Effective Sanitizing
- Multi-Surface Use
Pro Tip: If you prefer a spray, use a fine-mist spray bottle. For a gel, you might need to adjust the consistency with slightly more aloe vera gel.
Get the Recipe: Liquid Hand Sanitizer with Alcohol and Moisturizers
13. All-Natural On Guard Hand Sanitizer Spray
Create your own natural hand sanitizer spray using the immune-boosting doTERRA On Guard essential oil blend.
This recipe is designed for frequent use, keeping your hands and high-touch surfaces clean.
It’s a wonderfully aromatic and effective way to sanitize, and you can easily refill existing spray bottles with this DIY blend..
Key Ingredients:
- Isopropyl Alcohol (optional)
- Jojoba Oil or Carrier Oil
- doTERRA OnGuard Essential Oil
Benefits:
- All-Natural
- Aromatic
- Immune-Boosting Blend
- Versatile Use
Pro Tip: Shake gently before each use, as natural ingredients can sometimes separate.
Get the Recipe: All-Natural On Guard Hand Sanitizer Spray
14. Non-Drying Hand Sanitizer with Essential Oils
This DIY hand sanitizer is a fantastic toxin-free alternative that won't leave your hands feeling dry.
You have complete control over the ingredients, ensuring a safe and effective product.
Plus, you can customize it with your favorite essential oil blends for a personal touch and an added germ-fighting boost.
It's a smart and healthy choice for your family..
Key Ingredients:
- 190 Proof Grain Alcohol
- Essential Oils
- Aloe Vera Gel (optional)
- Vitamin E Oil (optional)
Benefits:
- Toxin-Free
- Non-Drying
- Customizable
- Cost-Effective
Pro Tip: For a moisturizing version, add a couple of drops of aloe vera gel and vitamin E oil.
Get the Recipe: Non-Drying Hand Sanitizer with Essential Oils
15. Simple Gel Hand Sanitizer with Aloe Vera and Rubbing Alcohol
Making your own gel hand sanitizer is incredibly simple with just rubbing alcohol and aloe vera gel.
This recipe is designed to protect your family from germs while keeping skin from drying out.
It’s a convenient and effective way to have sanitizer on hand when soap and water aren't available, and it feels wonderfully smooth on your skin..
Key Ingredients:
- Aloe Vera Gel
- 99% Rubbing Alcohol
- Essential Oils (optional)
Benefits:
- Simple Gel Formula
- Protects Skin
- Convenient
- Effective Germ-Fighting
Pro Tip: Ensure you use 90-99% rubbing alcohol for the highest germ-killing concentration.
Get the Recipe: Simple Gel Hand Sanitizer with Aloe Vera and Rubbing Alcohol
16. Alcohol-Free Hand Sanitizer Gel with Aloe Vera & Tea Tree Oil
This gentle hand sanitizer gel is perfect for when you need a quick clean without harshness.
It combines the soothing properties of aloe vera gel with the purifying power of tea tree oil for a refreshing, naturally scented cleanse.
It leaves your hands feeling soft and moisturized, making it a great alternative for frequent use..
Key Ingredients:
- Pure Aloe Vera Gel
- Witch Hazel
- Tea Tree Oil
- Other Essential Oils (optional)
Benefits:
- Alcohol-free
- Soothing
- Purifying
- Moisturizing
Pro Tip: You can add a few drops of lavender or lemon essential oil to create a more pleasant aroma, balancing the scent of the tea tree oil.
Get the Recipe: Alcohol-Free Hand Sanitizer Gel with Aloe Vera & Tea Tree Oil
17. Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer with Alcohol, Aloe Vera & Tea Tree Oil
This recipe creates a hand sanitizer that effectively cleanses while also caring for your skin.
It uses isopropyl alcohol for sanitizing power, balanced with aloe vera gel to prevent dryness.
A touch of tea tree essential oil adds a fresh scent and extra purifying benefits, leaving your hands feeling clean and soft..
Key Ingredients:
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Aloe Vera Gel
- Tea Tree Essential Oil
Benefits:
- Effective sanitizing
- Softens skin
- Antibacterial properties
Pro Tip: For best results, use pure aloe vera gel without added colors or fragrances, ensuring it says 'Aloe Vera' as the first ingredient.
Get the Recipe: Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer with Alcohol, Aloe Vera & Tea Tree Oil
18. Nourishing Hand Sanitizer Gel with Aloe Vera, Witch Hazel & Essential Oils
Create a wonderful hand sanitizer gel that's kind to your skin.
This recipe uses the hydrating power of aloe vera gel alongside witch hazel and your favorite essential oils for a delightful scent and effective clean.
It provides a protective barrier and leaves hands feeling soft and refreshed, a must-have for your daily routine..
Key Ingredients:
- Pure Aloe Vera Gel
- Witch Hazel
- Tea Tree Essential Oil
- Lavender Essential Oil
- Vitamin E Oil
Benefits:
- Hydrating
- Soothing
- Germ-free
- Pleasant scent
Pro Tip: Using a fresh aloe vera plant can add an extra boost of natural goodness, but high-quality store-bought pure aloe vera gel works well too.
Get the Recipe: Nourishing Hand Sanitizer Gel with Aloe Vera, Witch Hazel & Essential Oils
19. Simple & Effective Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer Spray
This straightforward DIY hand sanitizer recipe adheres to CDC guidelines, ensuring it contains at least 60% alcohol for effective germ-killing power.
It's simple to make with just a couple of key ingredients and optional essential oils for scent.
This spray is a practical solution for keeping your hands clean when washing isn't an option..
Key Ingredients:
- Isopropyl Alcohol (70%, 91%, or 99%)
- Aloe Vera Gel
- Essential Oil (optional)
Benefits:
- CDC compliant
- Effective germ-killing
- Easy to make
Pro Tip: Adjust the alcohol and aloe vera gel ratio based on the alcohol percentage you have available (70%, 91%, or 99% isopropyl alcohol) to maintain the 60% alcohol concentration.
Get the Recipe: Simple & Effective Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer Spray
20. Child-Safe Non-Toxic Hand Sanitizer with Essential Oils
Discover a non-toxic hand sanitizer option that's gentle enough for the whole family.
This recipe is designed with child-safe essential oils, providing a natural way to keep hands clean when needed.
It balances effectiveness with soothing ingredients, offering peace of mind and a pleasant, natural aroma..
Key Ingredients:
- Isopropyl Rubbing Alcohol or Everclear
- Aloe Vera Gel or Glycerin
- Child-Safe Essential Oils (e.g., Lavender, Tea Tree)
Benefits:
- Non-toxic
- Family-friendly
- Soothing and effective
Pro Tip: If using 70% rubbing alcohol, the sanitizer will be quite runny and works best in spray bottles. For thicker consistency, use higher percentage alcohol.
Get the Recipe: Child-Safe Non-Toxic Hand Sanitizer with Essential Oils
21. Refreshing Hand Sanitizer with Alcohol & Essential Oils
This easy-to-make hand sanitizer is a fantastic alternative to store-bought versions.
It uses the germ-killing power of alcohol, boosted with the refreshing scents of Thieves and Peppermint essential oils.
It’s a quick and effective way to keep your hands clean when soap and water aren’t around, making it perfect for busy days..
Key Ingredients:
- Rubbing Alcohol
- Thieves Essential Oil
- Peppermint Essential Oil
Benefits:
- Kills Germs
- Refreshing Scent
- Easy to Make
Pro Tip: Keep a few small spray bottles handy for your purse, car, or even your kids' backpacks for on-the-go freshness.
Get the Recipe: Refreshing Hand Sanitizer with Alcohol & Essential Oils
22. Effective DIY Hand Sanitizer with Alcohol & Aloe
Create a safe and effective hand sanitizer with just a few ingredients! This recipe is designed to have over 60% alcohol content, which is key for killing germs.
The addition of aloe vera helps to combat the drying effects of alcohol, leaving your hands feeling cleaner without too much irritation.
You can even add essential oils for a pleasant aroma..
Key Ingredients:
- Rubbing Alcohol
- Aloe Vera Gel
- Essential Oils (optional)
Benefits:
- High Alcohol Content
- Moisturizing
- Safe for Family
Pro Tip: For a higher alcohol content, simply reduce the amount of aloe vera gel in the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Effective DIY Hand Sanitizer with Alcohol & Aloe
23. Hand Sanitizer with Bug Spray Properties
This handy DIY hand sanitizer not only keeps your hands clean but can also double as a bug spray thanks to citronella essential oil! Made with simple ingredients like aloe vera, rubbing alcohol, and essential oils, it’s an effective way to sanitize on the go.
Plus, you can add cute labels to make it even more fun!.
Key Ingredients:
- Aloe Vera
- Rubbing Alcohol
- Distilled Water
- Citronella Essential Oil
Benefits:
- Sanitizes Hands
- Repels Bugs
- Pleasant Scent
Pro Tip: Print out fun labels for your bottles to easily identify what's inside and add a personal touch.
Get the Recipe: Hand Sanitizer with Bug Spray Properties