Hand Sanitizer FAQ

Get answers to common questions related to hand sanitizer. Looking to purchase? Shop our hand sanitizers today.

Does hand Sanitizer expire?

Hand Sanitizer typically expires two to three years after they are manufactured. While an expired sanitizer is not dangerous to use, it may be less effective since the alcohol content diminishes over time.

How Effective Are Hand Sanitizers?

According to the Centers for Disease Control, alcohol – based hand sanitizers can quickly reduce the number of microbes on hands in some situations, but sanitizers do not eliminate all types of germs.

Is Hand Sanitizer Better Than Soap?

No, hand sanitizer is not better than soap. Washing hands with warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds is the best way to reduce germs on hands. However, if water and soap are not available, as long as the hands are not greasy or covered in debris(visibly dirty), hand sanitizers are the next best solution to stop the spread of germs.

Which Hand Sanitizer is Best?

There is no “best” hand sanitizer. Any hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol is considered effective at killing germs, as long as it is used properly according to package directions. Put the recommended amount into the palm of your hand and rub over all hand surfaces until dry. Do not wipe off sanitizer.

Is Hand Sanitizer Antiviral?

Yes, hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content is antiviral. These hand sanitizers are effective at killing a variety of viral and bacterial germs.

Is Hand Sanitizer FDA Approved?

The three main ingredients used in hand sanitizers marketed in the US(isopropyl alcohol, ethyl alcohol, and benzalkonium chloride) are approved by the FDA for safety and effectiveness of hand sanitizers.(https: //www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-issues-final-rule-safety-and-effectiveness-consumer-hand-sanitizers)

Is Hand Sanitizer Dangerous to Pets?

Hand sanitizer contains ingredients that are dangerous to pets. However, pets would need to ingest very high amounts to become ill or die. Pets find hand sanitizer exceptionally unpalatable so the odds of them ingesting the amount needed to harm them is extremely low.

What types of Hand Sanitizers Exist?

There are two basic types: alcohol – based and alcohol – free. Alcohol – based hand sanitizer uses either isopropyl or ethyl alcohol as its main germ – killing ingredient. Formulas containing at least 60% alcohol are considered the most effective. Alcohol – free hand sanitizers use other agents such as benzalkonium chloride to clean hands, but many times simply prevent the growth of germs rather than killing them.

Which Hand Sanitizer is best for Covid-19?

Hand sanitizers containing at least 60% alcohol have shown to be best for use against the spread of COVID – 19. That said, washing your hands for 20 seconds with soap and running water is better than hand sanitizer if you have access to soap and water.