Hand Sanitizers and Soaps to Keep Your Hands Clean
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend washing hands with soap and water whenever possible in order to reduce the amount of germs, chemicals and bacteria that are on our hands. If you don’t have access to soap and water but need to cleanse your hands, using a hand sanitizer can help reduce the number of germs that are spread.
Read: 12 Ways to Avoid Getting the Flu
According to CDC, it is recommended to use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol to help kill germs. And while alcohol-based hand sanitizers can help reduce the number of microbes on hands, they do not necessarily eliminate all types of germs. Ideally, you should carry a hand sanitizer around with you when going to public places like the grocery store, then later wash your hands with soap and water when you can.
Here, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite hand sanitizers and soaps to keep your hands clean. Check them out to discover and shop!
100% Pure Hand Sanitizer Spray ($5)
This plant-based sanitizer helps reduce disease-causing bacteria. Its quick-drying spray formula is made with hydrating aloe vera gel and antibacterial tea tree oil to leave skin feeling soft and moisturized without a sticky residue.
AHAVA Alcohol Gel Hand Sanitizer ($24)
This FDA approved, vegan-friendly formula helps reduce bacteria that potentially can cause diseases. The 75% alcohol antiseptic quickly and effectively cleans hands with an easy-to-use pump. Also available in a smaller 3.4 oz size.
American Provenance Hand Sanitizer ($5)
Made with 80% ethyl alcohol, this liquid antibacterial hand sanitizer exceeds the World Health Organization's standards, all while supporting American Farmers. It is effective against 99.9% of viruses and bacteria. The perfect size to pop into a car console, purse or backpack and meets TSA guidelines. Unscented to keep it versatile.
Aromatherapy Associates Hand Wash ($32)
This gentle cleanser is infused with a hand-blend of pure essential oils. High altitude-grown lavender and sweet, citrus Petitgrain cleanse skin without stripping it and create a relaxing aromatherapeutic experience. Suitable for hands, bodies, and all skin types.
Bath & Body Works Bamboo Paradise Gentle Foaming Hand Soap ($7.50)
This gentle foaming hand soap contains essential oils, nourishing vitamin E, softening shea extract and aloe to deliver a rich lather that gently washes away dirt and germs. Features the fresh, earthy scent of dewy ivy, musk and blonde sandalwood.
Bath & Body Works Fiji White Sands Gentle Foaming Hand Soap ($7.50)
This gentle foaming hand soap delivers a rich lather, washing away dirt and germs. It combines nourishing vitamin E with softening shea extract and aloe. Enjoy the vacation-ready fragrance blend of white sands, vanilla orchid and warm amber.
Bath & Body Works Maui Mango Mai Tai ($7.50)
Keep hands clean and germ-free with this gentle foaming soap that has essential oils, nourishing vitamin E, shea extract and aloe. Features the fun fragrance of mango nectar, sun-kissed grapefruit and sugarcane.
Bath & Body Works Waikiki Beach Coconut Gentle Foaming Hand Soap ($7.50)
Featuring the warm, island blend of dragonfruit, water bamboo and coconut jasmine, this gentle foaming hand soap combines nourishing vitamin E, essential oils, softening shea extract and aloe to deliver a rich lather, gently washing away dirt and germs.
Biossance Squalane Hand Sanitizer ($10)
This powerful cream-gel formula includes 70% ethyl alcohol—more than the CDC’s recommended 60%. Sustainable sugarcane-derived squalane and vegan glycerin replenish skin’s moisture barrier so that even with multiple uses, hands stay comfortable and soft. The recyclable bottle is made from sustainable sugarcane, thereby reducing CO2 emissions.
Cloudless Antimicrobial Hand Lotion ($11.99)
Keep hands clean and hydrated with this antimicrobial hand lotion that is alcohol-free and lightweight, killing 99.9% of bacteria and germs while offering moisturizing benefits. Free of parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and no synthetic color has been added. Features a light floral scent and non-greasy. It’s a must-have that will save room in your purse when you’re on-the-go!
Dermalogica Moisture Shielding Hand Sanitizer ($32)
This non-alcohol antibacterial hand sanitizer kills 99.9% of germs while keeping skin hydrated. The light, creamy lotion forms a protective barrier against moisture loss to support skin's natural defenses. Bio-fermented technology and essential fatty acids help restore skin's moisture barrier. It’s also infused with antioxidant moringa seed, sage, calendula, and red ginseng extracts.
Dial PURE Micellar Juniper Foaming Hand Wash ($2.99)
This foaming hand wash is gentle yet effective, formulated with active micelles and without harmful ingredients. It’s formulated with powerful yet gentle ingredients. The non-antibacterial hand wash contains active micelles that naturally draw out dirt and impurities for a non-stripping, non-irritating clean. Dial®PURE formulas purify and hydrate the skin with each use, making them mild enough to use every day and gentle enough for the whole family. Bottle is made with 50% post-consumer recycled plastics. Dermatologist-tested.
Earth Mama Organics Lavender Hand Sanitizer ($4.99)
This hand sanitizer helps reduce bacteria with 80% alcohol and leaves behind the calming scent of lavender essential oil. Free of methanol, 1-propanol, denatonium benzoate, silicone, and propylene glycol.
Eir NYC Pure Eir ($20)
Sanitize hands and surfaces with this spray-on formula that features 65.7% alcohol that is locally sourced and has a lighter scent than isopropyl alcohol. It also has calendula-infused olive oil, which softens and soothes skin with each application. Powerful essential oils provided added antiviral and antimicrobial properties, including cypress oil, sweet orange oil, and eucalyptus. It also features a pleasant, zesty citrus scent for an aromatic calm. For a sanitizer with a lower alcohol content, check out Fresh Eir, an all-natural freshening spray.
Epicuren All Natural Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer ($10)
This hand sanitizer spray is naturally formulated with red thyme oil, 62% alcohol, vitamin E, and glycerin to moisturize hands while killing bacteria. Orange peel offers anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce skin irritation so hands feel better with every use.
ESYM Hand Purifier ($8.95)
This 100% plant-based blend cleanses and purifies without drying out hands. Formulation includes 65% organic cane alcohol distilled from non-GMO sugarcane, steam distilled eucalyptus hydrosol, green tea extract and vegetable glycerin, while pure eucalyptus and peppermint essential oils rejuvenate the senses. Spray onto the palms, rinse-free, and apply as needed.
Everyday Humans Germaphobe Hand & Surface Sanitizer ($8.50)
Featuring 65% ethyl alcohol, aloe vera leaf extract, and green tea extract, this sanitizer cleans hands, disinfects surfaces, purifies air, and refreshes face masks. It’s made with natural, skin-nourishing ingredients to prevent cracked and dry skin. As a hand sanitizer, spray generously to coat skin and massage until touch dry. As a surface sanitizer, simply spray and allow to dry. As a fabric or mask sanitizer, spritz and leave to air dry. Has the pleasant scent of black tea with vitamin E and aloe juice.
Every Man Jack Citrus Hand Sanitizer ($8)
This hand sanitizer protects against 99.9% of most common germs and has a coconut oil base to help moisturize hands. Features the pleasant scent of lemon and citrus essential oils for a refreshing aroma finish. This product was created for the purpose of an antiseptic or preventative against the growth of disease-causing microorganisms, and is an alternative to washing your hands when you’re unable to do so.
Everyone Hand Sanitizer Spray ($17.99 per 6-pack)
This EWG VERIFIED™ hand sanitizer spray is 99.9% effective against most common germs, thanks to the 62% alcohol content derived from non-GMO sugar cane. Available in several pleasant scents, including Peppermint Citrus, Coconut Lemon, Ruby Grapefruit and Lavender Aloe.
FarmHouse Fresh Sweet Tea Shea Butter Bar Soap ($11.50)
This creamy shea butter and lather-filled soap is 97% natural, triple milled and 100% juicy—fragranced with peach, ginger and white tea. The gentle vegetable formula contains Certified Sustainable Palm Oil, making it a favorite for people with sensitive skin and those who are concerned about the health of our world's forests. Wrapped in pretty printed paper and tied with hemp rope, Sweet Tea Soap is adds a sugary flair to any bath, shower or sink. Also available in Coconut Cream, Citrine Beach, and Front Porch Punch.
Fresh Fresh Life Oval Soap ($15)
This vegetable-based soap is enriched with moisturizing shea butter and infused with a sensual citrus scent. Fresh Life Oval Soap captures the ultimate Fresh moment, conjuring the freshness of a clear blue sky, sweet morning air, a sparkling sun, and velvety water. The nourishing formula is milled multiple times, making the soap super dense, luxurious, and long-lasting. Each soap is hand-wrapped, tied with a delicate wire, and topped with a semiprecious stone. Available in other scents including Mangosteen, Freesia, Waterlily, and more.
Heathmade Los Angeles Refresh Hand Sanitizer ($13.50)
For hand purifying on-the-go, this alcohol-free hand sanitizer was crafted to gently cleanse skin with a combination of soothing aloe vera gel, anti-inflammatory witch hazel, wondrously scented and antimicrobial essential oils, and antioxidant-rich vitamin E oil. Comes packaged in a sleek amber bottle with a black lotion pump and features the powerful scent of cool peppermint hand sanitizer. Check out the brand’s other hand sanitizers here.
Hyalolex Lavender Scented Hand Sanitizer with Zinc ($6-$22)
This hand sanitizer with zinc offers an effective solution to kill germs without the harsh scent or feel of other hand sanitizers. It combines 70% ethyl alcohol with the refreshing scent of lavender essential oil and hydrating aloe vera to kill 99% of harmful viruses and bacteria without harming skin. Tea tree oil and zinc make this a safe, natural alternative to other products so that your hands stay clean while promoting overall wellness in your daily life.
Jo Malone London Wood Sage & Sea Salt Body & Hand Wash ($42)
This refreshing body and hand wash gently cleanses and deliciously scents skin, leaving body and hands conditioned and soft. Its crystal-clear gel transforms into a rich lather and its uplifting fragrance fills the bathroom, immersing you in the delicate scent of sea salt and sage.
J.R. Watkins No-Rinse Foaming Hand Cleanser ($4.49)
This naturally derived, non-drying hand wash cleanses and moisturizes hands while on-the-go. Effectively washes away dirt and neutralizes odors with no added water or rinsing necessary. Available in Unscented, Lemongrass and Blue Lavender.
Kirk’s Odor Neutralizing Hydrating Hand Soap ($13.35)
Available in two different scents (rosemary & sage, lemon & eucalyptus) as well as a fragrance-free version, these odor neutralizing hand washes use a unique, natural vegetable fermentation technology to completely eliminate kitchen prep smells, like fish and garlic. They’re also tough on everyday odors, dirt, and grime. Premium coconut oil creates a creamy lather and soothing aloe vera ensures that your hands are left feeling soft, healthy, and free of bad odors!
Merci Handy Glitter Fever Hand Sanitizer ($4)
This magical, glittery hand cleansing gel contains 98% natural ingredients with a clean, aloe vera-enriched formula and a sparkling scent that smells like stardust! Made with 67% alcohol and kills 99.9% of germs.
Milk Makeup Hand Sanitizer ($6)
This on-the-go liquid hand sanitizer kills 99.9% of germs with 70% ethanol alcohol while moisturizing and softening your hands. It also provides an uplifting sensorial experience with three unique blends of all-natural essential oils. Available in three options:
Spicy Herb: Crisp, energizing blend of spicy pink peppercorn and herbaceous buchu leaf oil balanced by relaxing sage and rich cedar wood oils.
Bright Citrus: Lush, citrusy arrangement of juicy grapefruit oil, stimulating lemongrass oil, and floral ylang ylang oil rounded out by creamy vanilla.
Warm Rose: Warm floral combination of blooming rose oil and spicy coriander seed oil complemented by fruity bergamot, sweet tonka bean, and woodsy akigalawood.
New England Hemp Farm CBD Hand Sanitizer ($18.99)
This hand sanitizer is formulated with 70% ethyl alcohol to kill germs along with 200mg of CBD per bottle to help soothe and moisturize skin. Comes in a convenient pump dispenser or a pop-up top—great for the home or office.
Noshinku Bergamot Pocket Hand Sanitizer ($9)
This premium bergamot-scented hand sanitizer spray is derived from organic ingredients including sugar-cane based alcohol, rosehip seed, jojoba and Italian bergamia oil. Noshinku is bottled in a soft-to-the-touch black matte mister that fits neatly in your pocket for clean and fresh hands anywhere. Each Noshinku pocket sprayer provides 300+ spritzes.
Oars + Alps Antibacterial Hand Sanitizer Spray (2 for $12)
The brand is partnering with Chicago and New York hospitals to provide hand sanitizers to first responders, and additionally has made these products available to the public for purchase on their website. This pocket-sized, moisturizing antibacterial spray is released as a fine mist. Spray 2-3 times on each hand. Made with 71% Ethyl Alcohol to kill 99.9% of germs on skin and vitamin E to moisturize and keep hands soft. An Antibacterial Hand Sanitizer Gel is also available.
OLIKA Minnie ($17.99-$71.99)
This fragrance-free, limited-edition hand sanitizer is made with 65% ethyl alcohol and removes 99.9% of germs from hands while hydrating skin for up to 24 hours. With 500+ sprays or 250 uses, Minnie replaces 15+ bottles of gel-based alternatives. The Minnie is available in two stunning colors: Pink Marshmallow (pictured) and Purple Thistle. Comes in 3-packs, 6-packs, and 12-packs.
Philip B Floral Lavender Hand Wash ($34)
Packaged in an elegant bottle, this hand wash features moisturizing botanicals that hydrate and heal hands. Pure provencal lavender is a natural antiseptic that creates a light velvety lather and cleans without stripping. High tech botanical hydrators such as vitamin E, mongogo oil, safflower oleosomes, a potent L-Amino Acid complex and sweet almond oil soften skin, instantly tackling dryness.
Primally Pure Hand Sanitizer ($12)
This non-toxic hand sanitizer helps defend against harmful bacteria and viruses with a potent blend of organic ingredients, including 63% grape alcohol, immune-boosting essential oils, healing aloe vera, and soothing vegetable glycerin to powerfully protect delicate skin. Through the month of April, all Hand Sanitizer proceeds will be donated to Feeding America and Center for Disaster Philanthropy.
R+Co Palm Reader Antiseptic Hand Sanitizer ($14)
This non-drying formula kills germs that can spread disease while leaving them super soft and refreshed. The hydrating gel is formulated with over 60% alcohol and eliminates germs in seconds. Recommended for repeated use daily.
Skylar Soothing Hand Sanitizer ($12 each)
The brand has expanded their offerings with a new Soothing Hand Sanitizer collection available in three scents: Pink Sky (bright, vibrant, juicy), Beach House (breezy, tranquil, uplifting), and Sun Shower (cool, citrus, dewy). The hand sanitizer gels are alcohol-based and kill 99.9% of germs and bacteria while nourishing hands with soothing witch hazel. Like Skylar’s other products, the hand sanitizers are cruelty-free, vegan, and free of harmful chemicals.
Soapbox Coconut Milk & Sandalwood Deep Moisture Bar Soap ($4.99)
Packed with olive oil and shea butter, this bar of soap deeply nourishes while leaving a sweet, nutty, tropical scent on your skin. The aroma of coconut is balanced with the cedar-like scent of sandalwood to create a smell that isn’t too sweet or too earthy, but the perfect blend of both. Paired with exfoliating apricot seeds, this bar will reveal your smoothest skin.
Soapbox Liquid Hand Sanitizer ($15.99/2-pack)
This unscented, 70% alcohol hand sanitizer is blended with moisturizers and aloe to help reduce pathogenic germs on hands and prevent hands from drying out when using. Not only does it fight germs, but it also leaves your hands hydrated with each drop. Comes with two bottles.
SpaRitual Hand Sanitizer Spray (4-pack for $24)
SpaRitual partnered with its parent company ORLY International, Inc to produce 75% alcohol-based hand sanitizer. It’s formulated with just four essential ingredients: 75% Isopropyl Alcohol, Glycerin, Hydrogen Peroxide, Purified Water USP. No added fragrances or oils.
The Handmade Soap Co. Grapefruit & Irish Moss Soap Bar ($9.50)
This gentle soap lathers easily and wakes skin up with the lively scent of grapefruit zing and restorative Irish moss, which is wild Irish seaweed harvested off the west coast of Ireland. Top notes are citrus and fruity; middle notes are floral, green, and mandarin; and base notes are patchouli and sweet orange flower. Tip: also great to put in your drawers to make clothes smell amazing!
Tonymoly Chok Chok Hand Gel - Set of 2 ($6)
Eliminate harmful germs with this hand sanitizer gel that is formulated with 62% alcohol, aloe water and witch hazel to moisturize and clean skin. Kills 99% of germs without leaving behind a sticky residue.
Touchland Power Mist ($12 each)
Each mist contains 500+ spritzes to evenly eliminate 99.9% of harmful germs, while the lightweight, dermatologist-tested formula is packed with ingredients such as hydrating aloe vera and a blend of essential oils to leave hands soft and healthy. The TSA-friendly product is great for on-the-go and comes in seven amazing scents, as well as a fragrance-free formula.
Truly Hand Sanitizer Germ Killin’ Gel ($6)
This moisturizing hand sanitizer will leave hands feeling cleansed, refreshed and hydrated with 70% alcohol and aloe leaf ingredients that work as a a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins. Helps protect skin and works to hydrate hands while the gel continues to fight off and kill germs—plus the chic design will fit perfectly in all on-the-go accessories!
TwinMedix Hani-Tizer ($15 for a 2-pack)
This handy two-pack kills 99.9% of germs with 70% Ethyl Alcohol, disinfecting and moisturizing to leave hands refreshed. A portion of the proceeds will go to the TwinMedix artist family. Given these uncertain times, TwinMedix will also be shifting their current production over to focus on bringing more sanitizers to the community.
Wellnesse Moisturizing Hand Sanitizer ($10)
This natural hand sanitizer kills 99.9% of germs without stripping skin. Ingredients include ethanol alcohol to fight germs and antibacterial/antifungal tea tree. Soothing eucalyptus and moisturizing glycerin give hands much-needed hydration. Packaged in a recyclable glass bottle. Starts shipping 5/11.
Whish Hand Sanitizer ($12)
This 70% ethyl alcohol sanitizer comes in a handy 237ml pump bottle, and like all of Whish’s products, is Leaping Bunny certified, paraben free, sulfate free, DEA and TEA free, petrochemical free, phthalate free, naturally sourced, and made in the USA.
White Barn Cactus Blossom Gentle Foaming Hand Soap ($6.50)
Gently wash away dirt and germs with this gentle foaming hand soap that contains essential oils, vitamin E, softening shea extract and aloe. Features a sweet, crisp scent that combines cactus flower petal, sun-kissed coconut and sparkling lemon.
White Barn Champagne Toast Gentle Foaming Hand Soap ($7.50)
Treat your senses to this cheers-worthy spritzer of bubbly champagne, sparkling berries and juicy tangerine that are featured in this gentle foaming hand soap with vitamin E, shea extract, and aloe. Delivers a rich lather, gently washing away dirt and germs.
White Barn Kitchen Lemon Gentle Foaming Hand Soap ($7.50)
Featuring a fresh blend of zesty lemon, sparkling citrus and Italian bergamot, this gel-formula hand soap cleanses yet is gentle on hands. Made without dyes or parabens, it includes vitamin E, shea extract, aloe and essential oils.
Zoey Naturals Hand Sanitizer ($6)
This hand sanitizer effectively kills 99.9% of germs and bacteria. It has been formulated without the use of harsh chemicals and deeply cleanses without the use of water. Free of parabens, sulfates and phthalates. Spray hands thoroughly with product and allow to dry without wiping. Available in Island Hibiscus (pictured) and English Garden.
ZOYA Hand Sanitizer ($2.99-$8.50)
This 70% Isopropyl Alcohol Topical Solution Gel looks and feels like a traditional hand sanitizer gel formula. It includes vitamin E and conditioners to help maintain condition of skin. Available in a pump, spray bottle and mini version.
[Images courtesy of brands]
Kamala Kirk is a University of Southern California graduate and has been an editor/writer for more than a decade. She has written for E! Online, Total Beauty, TravelAge West, Malibu Times Magazine, and many more. She resides in Los Angeles and is a proud pug mom. Follow her on Instagram: @kamalakirk