Hand Sanitizer Not Working? Here’s What You’re Doing Wrong

Hand sanitizers have become a ubiquitous tool in our daily lives, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Their convenience and portability make them a go-to for quick disinfection when soap and water aren’t readily available. However, not all uses of hand sanitizers are equally effective. In fact, certain mistakes can render them significantly less potent against germs. Below, we explore nine common mistakes that can reduce the effectiveness of hand sanitizers, and provide tips on how to avoid them.

1. Using a Hand Sanitizer with Insufficient Alcohol Content

One of the most critical factors determining the effectiveness of a hand sanitizer is its alcohol content. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend using a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Alcohol-based sanitizers kill most types of bacteria, viruses, and fungi by denaturing their proteins and disrupting their membranes. However, hand sanitizers with less than 60% alcohol content may not be as effective at killing germs and can even promote resistance in certain bacteria.

Solution: Always check the label before purchasing hand sanitizer. Ensure that it contains at least 60% ethanol or isopropanol. Avoid products that use other active ingredients like benzalkonium chloride, as they may not be as effective against certain pathogens.

2. Not Using Enough Hand Sanitizer

Another common mistake is not using enough sanitizer to cover all surfaces of your hands adequately. A pea-sized drop won’t suffice. Insufficient application means that parts of your hands remain untouched by the sanitizer, leaving areas where germs can thrive.

Solution: Use enough hand sanitizer to cover all surfaces of both hands thoroughly. The World Health Organization (WHO) suggests applying a palmful of sanitizer (about 3 ml) to your hands. Rub it in until your hands are completely dry, which should take about 20 seconds.

3. Wiping Hands Before the Sanitizer Dries

Many people make the mistake of wiping their hands before the sanitizer has had a chance to dry. This not only reduces the contact time between the sanitizer and your skin, but it can also remove the sanitizer from your hands entirely.

Solution: Allow the hand sanitizer to dry naturally. The drying process is essential because it ensures that the alcohol remains on your skin long enough to kill the germs. It typically takes about 20-30 seconds for hand sanitizer to evaporate completely. Resist the urge to wipe your hands on a towel or clothing.

4. Using Hand Sanitizer on Dirty or Greasy Hands

Hand sanitizer is not a substitute for soap and water when your hands are visibly dirty or greasy. Dirt, grease, and other organic materials can reduce the effectiveness of the alcohol in the sanitizer by physically blocking it from reaching the skin surface where the germs reside.

Solution: If your hands are dirty or greasy, wash them with soap and water. Hand sanitizer should be used only when your hands are already relatively clean. If soap and water are unavailable, try to remove as much dirt or grease as possible before applying hand sanitizer.

5. Incorrect Application Technique

How you apply hand sanitizer matters. Failing to cover all parts of your hands, including under the nails, between fingers, and around the thumb, can leave areas that are still contaminated with germs.

Solution: Follow the correct technique for applying hand sanitizer. Start by placing enough product in the palm of your hand. Rub your hands together, making sure to cover all surfaces, including the back of your hands, between your fingers, under your nails, and around your thumbs. Continue rubbing until your hands feel dry.

6. Storing Hand Sanitizer Incorrectly

Hand sanitizer can lose its effectiveness if it’s stored improperly. Exposure to high temperatures, such as in a car during summer, can cause the alcohol content to evaporate, reducing the sanitizer’s germ-killing power. Similarly, leaving the bottle open or not sealing it properly can also allow the alcohol to evaporate.

Solution: Store your hand sanitizer in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and heat sources. Always ensure that the bottle is tightly sealed when not in use. Avoid leaving hand sanitizer in hot environments like your car during the summer months.

7. Using Expired Hand Sanitizer

Like most products, hand sanitizers have a shelf life. Over time, the alcohol in the sanitizer can evaporate, reducing its concentration and effectiveness. Using expired hand sanitizer might not provide the protection you expect.

Solution: Check the expiration date on your hand sanitizer regularly. Discard any sanitizer that has passed its expiration date, as it may no longer be effective at killing germs. Replace it with a new bottle to ensure you’re using a product that will work as intended.

8. Using Hand Sanitizer as a Replacement for Handwashing

While hand sanitizers are convenient, they are not a replacement for washing your hands with soap and water, especially in situations where handwashing is necessary, such as after using the restroom, before eating, or when hands are visibly soiled. Handwashing is more effective at removing certain types of germs and debris from the skin.

Solution: Use hand sanitizer as a supplement to, not a replacement for, handwashing. Wash your hands with soap and water whenever possible, especially after using the restroom, before handling food, or when your hands are visibly dirty. Hand sanitizer should be used as an additional measure when soap and water are not available.

9. Using Homemade or Unverified Hand Sanitizers

During the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, shortages led some people to make their own hand sanitizers. However, homemade sanitizers can be ineffective or even harmful if not made correctly. Some homemade recipes lack the appropriate alcohol concentration, while others may include harmful ingredients.

Solution: Stick to commercially available, FDA-approved hand sanitizers that have been tested for safety and efficacy. Avoid using homemade or unverified products, as they may not provide adequate protection against germs. If you must make your own sanitizer, follow guidelines from reputable sources like the WHO, but this should be a last resort.

Conclusion

Hand sanitizer is a powerful tool in our fight against germs, but its effectiveness depends on proper use. By avoiding these nine common mistakes, you can maximize the germ-killing power of your hand sanitizer and protect yourself and others from potential infections. Always remember that while hand sanitizer is useful, it is not a substitute for proper hand hygiene practices, including regular handwashing with soap and water.