Make Your Own Hand Sanitizer

Some antibacterial soaps and hand sanitizers contain Triclosan, which is associated with various health and environmental problems. If you are concerned about the ingredients or just want control over them, you can make your own hand sanitizer. It's extremely simple and economical, plus you can customize the scent to suit your personal taste. Here's what you do... first gather your materials:

• 2/3 cup 99% rubbing alcohol (isopropyl alcohol) or ethanol

• 1/3 cup aloe vera gel

• 8-10 drops essential oil, optional (such as lavendar, vanilla, peppermint, grapefruit)

• Recycled liquid soap or hand sanitizer bottle

Mix the ingredients. You'll probably need a funnel to get the gel into the bottle. Screw the pump or cap back on, and you're set!