Talk to me Alys, why should I make my own alcohol hand gel, rather than buy it?

Oh hello friend! I'm so glad you asked...

Triclosan is still used in some antibacterial products, but it's no longer approved for use in commercial hand sanitisers due to potential health effects. Many products still include ingredients such as benzalkonium chloride, which is considered a 'moderate' hazard by the EWG (Environmental Working Group); they often contain fragrances that the EWG ranks as moderate to high risk too!

All well and good Alys, but tell me - how do I make my own?

Oh another sterling question...

It's only 2-3 ingredients and takes just 5 mins!

6 tbps of 70% isopropyl alcohol

2 tsp aloe vera gel

14 drops of essential oils (optional!) I use equal parts tea tree, sweet orange & lavender.

Just mix 'em together in a mixing bowl and pop them in either a spray bottle; or an old essential oils bottle! Jobs a good'un.

If you don't fancy making your own - that's ok! There are plenty of options on the market that have many less ingredients than those we buy out of convenience at the super market - just be sure to read the label to keep the nasties away as much as possible.