Hand Sanitizer Frequently Asked Questions

According to the World Health Organization, washing hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is essential, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after coughing, sneezing, or blowing one’s nose.

Sometimes soap and water are not available, so using an alcohol based hand sanitizer is your main option. Here are come Frequently Asked Questions we get about Hand Sanitizer:

Many surface cleaners and disinfectants say they can be used against SARS-CoV-2. What does this mean?Can I use these products on my hands or body to prevent or treat the virus?
Always follow the instructions on household cleaners. Do not use disinfectant sprays or wipes on your skin because they may cause skin and eye irritation. Disinfectant sprays or wipes are not intended for use on humans or animals. Disinfectant sprays or wipes are intended for use on hard, non-porous surfaces.

Where should hand sanitizer be stored?
Hand sanitizer should be stored out of reach, and sight, of children. It should not be stored above 40°Celsius (for example, it should not be stored in a car hot period of the year).

What does it mean when the label of my hand sanitizer says “alcohol”?
Hand sanitizers labeled as containing the term “alcohol,” used by itself, are expected to contain ethanol (also known as ethyl alcohol). Only two alcohols are permitted as active ingredients in alcohol-based hand sanitizers – ethanol (ethyl alcohol) or isopropyl alcohol (isopropanol or 2-propanol). However, the term “alcohol,” used by itself, on hand sanitizer labels specifically refers to ethanol only.

What should you do if your child ingests hand sanitizer?
If your child ingests hand sanitizer, call poison control or a medical professional immediately.

Q. Is hand sanitizer flammable?
Yes. Hand sanitizer is flammable and should be stored away from heat or flame. Hand sanitizer should be rubbed into the hands until they feel completely dry before continuing activities that may involve heat, sparks, static electricity, or open flames.

Q. Is hand sanitizer dangerous for children?
For children under six years of age, hand sanitizer should be used with adult supervision. Hand sanitizer is dangerous when ingested by children. Drinking only a small amount of hand sanitizer can cause alcohol poisoning in children. However, there is no need to be concerned if your children eat with or lick their hands after using hand sanitizer. It is also important to keep the product out of the eyes.