From AAA: Hand Sanitizer 101

Hand Sanitizer 101

The effectiveness of your hand sanitizer all depends on how you use it.

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At times when you can’t wash your hands, hand sanitizer is an excellent way to protect yourself against germs and the COVID-19 virus. But like all cleaners and sanitizers, it’s most effective when used correctly. While hand sanitizer is all about convenience, you should keep these tips in mind before you pump (or spritz) and go.

• Make sure your hand sanitizer does not have a higher concentration of fancy scents and sparkles than alcohol. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol (also referred to as ethanol or ethyl alcohol).

• Cover all surfaces of both hands with hand sanitizer and let them air dry; don’t wipe dry. Use the amount recommended on the product label.

• Hand sanitizer may not work as well when hands are heavily soiled or greasy such as after playing sports or handling garbage or food. Hand-washing with soap and water is recommended in these situations.