These days, hand sanitizer is something most of us carry daily — tucked into diaper bags, purses, car consoles, and backpacks. But store-bought versions are often filled with harsh chemicals, synthetic fragrances, and ingredients that leave your hands feeling dry and sticky.
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This DIY hand sanitizer spray is a simple, natural alternative that’s just as effective — and so much more nourishing for your skin. Made with witch hazel, vitamin E oil, and Fighting Five essential oil blend, this recipe combines old-fashioned simplicity with modern peace of mind.
It’s easy to make in just minutes and can be customized with your favorite scents. If you’re someone who prefers to know exactly what’s going on your skin and into your family’s hands, this is the perfect swap.
Why Make Your Own Hand Sanitizer?
You don’t need to rely on store shelves to keep your family’s hands clean. Making your own gives you control over both safety and scent — while keeping things budget-friendly and low-waste.
Here’s why I love this DIY:
- Simple ingredients I already have in my home.
- Customizable: Use your preferred essential oil blends or adjust the scent strength.
- Less waste: Refill the same spray bottles instead of tossing plastic bottles.
- Skin-friendly: With ingredients like vitamin E and witch hazel, it moisturizes while it sanitizes.
Does It Work?
Yes — when made with at least 60% alcohol content, homemade hand sanitizer can effectively kill most bacteria and viruses on contact. This recipe uses 91% isopropyl alcohol, which keeps it well within the CDC’s recommended range, even with the added ingredients.
While soap and water are still the best way to clean your hands, this spray is a fantastic on-the-go option.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The Core Ingredients:
- ⅔ cup (5.5 oz) 91% isopropyl alcohol – The active sanitizing base.
- 1/3 cup (2.5 oz) witch hazel – A gentle astringent and natural skin soother.
- 1 tsp vitamin E oil – Moisturizes and nourishes skin, helping prevent dryness.
- 30–40 drops Fighting Five essential oil blend – Naturally antimicrobial and pleasantly scented.
You can adjust the essential oil strength to your liking. If using a custom blend, popular choices include clove, lemon, eucalyptus, cinnamon, and rosemary.
Supplies:
- A 4 oz spray bottle (glass preferably)
- Small funnel (optional, but helpful)
- Measuring cup
What is Germ Fighter Oil?
Fighting Five is a popular essential oil blend made by Eden’s Garden. It’s comparable to Thieves by Young Living or On Guard by doTERRA. These blends are made to be antimicrobial, antiviral, and immune-supportive, often containing oils like:
- Clove
- Lemon
- Cinnamon bark
- Eucalyptus
- Rosemary
This blend gives the spray its germ-fighting power and a warm, spicy, comforting scent.
How to Make Your DIY Hand Sanitizer Spray
This comes together in under five minutes — no special tools required.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sanitize your bottle and tools.
Use boiling water or wipe down with rubbing alcohol. - Mix your ingredients.
In a small measuring cup or bowl, add:- ⅔ cup isopropyl alcohol
- ⅓ cup witch hazel
- 1 tsp vitamin E oil
- 30–40 drops Fighting Five essential oil blend
- Stir gently.
Mix everything with a spoon or whisk to combine. - Funnel into your spray bottle.
Use a small funnel to avoid spills. Leave a little room at the top. - Label and shake.
Add a label (like “Natural Hand Sanitizer”) and shake gently before each use.
How to Use
Spray 1–2 spritzes into your palm and rub hands together thoroughly, making sure to cover the backs of hands, between fingers, and around nails. Let air dry — no need to rinse.
Storage Tips
- Store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight.
- Use within 3–6 months for best potency.
- Shake gently before use if the oils settle.
- Keep out of reach of small children.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use vodka or everclear instead of rubbing alcohol?
You can, but make sure it’s at least 120 proof (60% alcohol) to be effective. Standard vodka won’t cut it.
Is witch hazel necessary?
It helps dilute the alcohol slightly and makes the spray more skin-friendly. You could substitute aloe vera juice or distilled water if needed, but witch hazel adds mild antimicrobial properties and soothes skin.
Can I use this on kids?
Yes, though you may want to use a milder essential oil blend or reduce the number of drops for young children. Lavender or chamomile are gentler alternatives.
Why This Spray Beats Store-Bought
Many commercial sanitizers leave hands sticky and dry and are full of artificial fragrances. This DIY spray feels light, smells natural, and actually nourishes your skin while sanitizing it. Plus, it saves money and plastic waste over time.
Pin it on Pinterest!
DIY Hand Sanitizer Spray with Witch Hazel & Vitamin E
Ingredients
- ⅔ cup 91% isopropyl alcohol
- ⅓ cup witch hazel
- 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil
- 30 –40 drops Germ Fighter essential oil blend
Instructions
- Sanitize your spray bottle and mixing tools by washing with hot soapy water or wiping with alcohol.
- In a clean bowl or measuring cup, combine ⅔ cup 91% isopropyl alcohol, ⅓ cup witch hazel, 1 teaspoon vitamin E oil, and 30–40 drops Germ Fighter essential oil blend.
- Stir gently to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
- Using a funnel, pour the mixture into your spray bottle.
- Label the bottle and shake well before each use.
- To use, spray 1–2 pumps into your palms and rub hands together until dry.
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and out of reach of children.
Notes
Shake well before each use.
Keep out of reach of children.
Not a replacement for washing hands with soap and water.
Hi, I’m Ashley — mama, maker, and lover of all things from-scratch. Around here, you’ll usually find me barefoot in the kitchen, covered in flour or beeswax, with kids underfoot and something simmering on the stove. I believe in slow living, simple joys, and the kind of home that smells like cinnamon rolls and sunshine. Find out more about me here.
