For those in need of hand sanitizer, counter spray, and handwash (especially if you’re having trouble finding aloe and rubbing alcohol locally), here are some DIY natural formulas that do not require alcohol so you can make and refill them quickly and easily at home. All of the formulas are kid-safe and gentle on sensitive skin.

The major plant heroes here are tea tree oil and lemongrass essential oil...both with proven antiviral properties. Lavender and rosemary essential oils are natural antiseptics that smell fantastic, help soothe skin, and impart a calm vibe.

Take care of yourself and each other out there, keep your immune system boosted with quality sleep, and help others in need of a little light right now...the best way to get through tough times is together! 💙🌿 

DIY Natural Hand Sanitizer

(Makes a 2oz spray that you can carry with you easily for waterless handwashing...if you prefer a 4oz bottle for family use, double the formula)

-2oz empty glass spray bottle

-2oz Dickinson's Original Witch Hazel (about 4 TBSP)

-15 drops tea tree oil

-5 drops each lavender and lemongrass essential oils (optional, but recommended)

*Directions: Add tea tree oil, lemongrass and lavender essential oils to glass spray bottle and fill with witch hazel. Shake well before using. Spritz 2-3x on hands and rub together until sanitizer dries. This formula is non-drying to skin and gentle.

Dickenson's original witch hazel contains 14% natural grain alcohol so it works as a natural antiseptic and disinfectant. Grain alcohol is non drying to skin, which is a total bonus if you're washing your hands frequently. You can find Dickenson's original witch hazel in the beauty section at drugstores, Target, Wal-Mart, etc. You can find tea tree oil at most health food stores or in the natural section of some pharmacies. You can buy glass droppers and bottles on Amazon if you cannot find them locally.

DIY Natural Counter Spray

(Makes an 8oz spray that you can make and refill quickly and easily...double the formula if you prefer a larger 16oz spray)

-8oz empty glass spray bottle

-2oz white vinegar (about 4 TBSP)

-24 drops tea tree oil

-10 drops each lavender and lemongrass essential oils (optional, but recommended)

-6oz distilled water

*Directions: Add tea tree oil, lavender, and lemongrass essential oils to glass spray bottle. Add white vinegar and fill with distilled water. Shake well before using. Spritz on surfaces and wipe clean. Works great on glass, mirrors, and tile as well!

You can find white vinegar and distilled water at your local grocery.

There's also a great DIY disinfecting natural counter spray link here from the folks at Aromatherapy Press.

DIY Natural Disinfecting Hand Wash

(Makes an 8oz hand wash that you can make and refill quickly and easily...double the formula if you prefer a larger 16oz bottle)

-48 drops tea tree oil

-20 drops oil of rosemary or lemongrass essential oil

-Add essential oils to 8oz pump or screw top bottle

-Fill with natural, unscented Castile soap and shake well

You can find Castile soap and essential oils at your local health food store or follow the links to order online. Castile soap is a natural, oil-based soap and is great for skin. Will not dry or strip and is gentle enough for little ones.