Remember when the COVID-19 crisis first hit? Well, how could we forget scrambling our way through spring – it was like mission impossible to find face masks, specific germ-busting cleaning supplies and hand sanitizer.
If it was our lucky day and we managed to find hand sanitizer, it may not have had the greatest scent or left our skin feeling anything other than lizard-like. Thankfully, when the beginning of summer hit, multiple companies had jumped on the hand sanitizer-making scene and started massively producing better alternatives.
Health Canada and the World Health Organization promotes regular handwashing with soap and water for a minimum of 20 seconds to limit the spread and help combat the COVID-19 virus however, this option is not always available to us. Keep in mind, hand sanitizer must contain an alcohol level of at least 60% to be considered effective.
It is so important to choose a sanitizer that works best for you and with you – knowing which brands to trust these days is not easy. Perfect for on-the-go everyday life, these products are also eco-friendly. As crucial as it is to protect ourselves, it is also imperative that we protect our planet
1. Nena Glacial Skincare Hand Sanitizer – 72% Ethyl Alcohol
Proudly Canadian! From the earth to the skin. Nena Glacial Skincare’s local first nation community in the Richmond, BC area states that Nena means ‘magical’ and ‘mystical’ in their native tongue. Canadian glacial water is used as a base for their hand sanitizer, leaving zero ecological footprint in the processing of this product or any of the products in their line-up. Enriched with calendula, aloe vera and aromatic litsea, this sanitizer takes premium care of the skin’s well-being and comes in both spray and gel form for ultimate versatility.
2. Dr. Bronner’s Organic Lavender Hand Sanitizer – 62% Ethyl Alcohol
Quick and easy clean with a conscience. Made with only four high quality natural ingredients; organic ethyl alcohol, organic lavender oil, organic glycerin and water, this simple formula is free from harsh chemicals and safe for use on children. Socially and environmentally responsible, Dr. Bronner’s Organic Lavender Hand Sanitizer can be sprayed on surfaces for additional protection such as computer screens or to use as a purifying air freshener – this effective germ-killing elixir in a convenient spray bottle is more than just a hand cleanser.
3. Baby Bum by Sun Bum Hand Sanitizer – 62% Ethyl Alcohol
Hands as soft as a baby’s bum. Planet, animal and family friendly, Baby Bum’s Hand Sanitizer is infused with essential oils and fruit extracts such as aloe, cucumber, banana, white ginger, gardenia and passionflower for a non-drying, smooth and soothing feeling post-hand application. Dermatologist and pediatrician-tested, you can trust this product is a super safe choice. Hypoallergenic and free from artificial fragrances, this sanitizer has an irresistible scent, is non-sticky and is known to replenish and hydrate all skin types, of all ages!
4. Bleu Lavande Hand Sanitizer – 62% Ethyl Alcohol
The hills are alive with the sound of germ-killing! From the beautiful rolling countryside of Fitch Bay, Quebec, Bleu Lavande’s Hand Sanitizer is enriched with freshly farmed lavender essential oil, pure aloe leaf extract, plant-based glycerin and vitamin E. This 99.9% natural, safe and effective product creates a refreshing sensation, leaving skin soft and subtle. Bleu Lavande has been proudly growing their own lavender since 2004! This Canadian brand reflects wellness, purity and authenticity – and we approve.
5. Herbal Glo Ultra Clean Hand Sanitizer – 80% Ethyl Alcohol
Pocket Glo on the go. Researched and formulated by Cape Town Pharmacist, Lou Segal, Herbal Glo’s Ultra Clean Hand Sanitizer disperses evenly and absorbs instantly with no sticky feeling – all that is left behind on the skin is an invigorating lemongrass scent. Using the exact formula recommended by the World Health Organization, hands will be treated to the healing properties of aloe, vitamin E, tea tree and witch hazel. Herbal Glo has 60 years of history behind their product line however, they have been Canadian based in Richmond, BC since 1986.
6. Hello Bello Hand Sanitizer – 80% Ethyl Alcohol
A lightweight yet powerful formula, Hello Bello’s Hand Sanitizer spray is gentle enough for families with little ones in tow and will not leave hands dry or cracked. Spreads effortlessly and does not leave a goopy-like film unlike some sanitizers while naturally banishing 99.9% of germs and bacteria. Made with organic avocado, calendula, and cucumber extracts, Hello Bello’s Hand Sanitizer spray comes in sweet Apple Blossom or unscented. Co-founded by Kristin Bell and Dax Shepard, their plant-based product line was created with children, parents and the planet in mind. They had us at, Hello!
7. Stix Brand Soap Stix – 70% Ethyl Alcohol
Suffer from eczema, psoriasis or general epidermis sensitivity? Individuals with skin conditions will love Stix Brand Soap Stix, the all-natural portable hand wash spray with a convenient pen-clip to attach on shirt pockets. Rich in antioxidant properties, vitamin C, extra virgin olive oil and orange essence oil, this formula has been proven to help rejuvenate aging hands too. Made in Thornhill, Ontario, this sanitizer is a wonderful solution to clean hands that need extra nurturing.
All-Clean
8. All Clean Natural Hand Sanitizer – 70% Ethyl Alcohol
Dan Boria started All Clean Natural with a $90 investment, years later he boasts a successful Albertan business that still relies solely on human production. No big machines or assembly lines to be found, all plant-based, bio-degradable and dependant on natural elements, Dan continues to embrace his made for humans by humans vision statement. All Clean Natural’s Hand Sanitizer delivers a pleasing lemon mint scent leaving the nose wanting more, and nourished hands soft and silky instead of rough and thirsty. Touchable hands? Yes, please!