It’s hot outside and we’re starting to enjoy some outdoor fun! That means that little hands are getting all sorts of dirt on them and then probably making their way straight into their little mouths.

Many conventional hand sanitizers contain some pretty scary ingredients that you don’t want anywhere near your child’s mouth. Luckily, making your own hand sanitizer is simple, and all you need are a few easy to find ingredients.

Aloe Vera makes a great base for a hand sanitizer. It gives you the gel-like feel of conventional products and has both antibacterial and antifungal properties. Witch Hazel is an optional ingredient, which works as an antiseptic thanks to its alcohol content. Its alcohol concentration isn’t as strong as the alcohol concentration found in store-bought sanitizers, and it can even be left out all together if you want.

Essential oils give this concoction most of its antibacterial benefits, so you’ll want to stick with powerful ones. Tea tree oil is known for killing bacteria and fungus, and as an antimicrobial, it should always make up the largest part of your essential oil. You can add more essential oils to either add more germ-fighting ingredients (lavender, clove and rosemary are good choices) or just to add a nice smell (citrus, cinnamon and peppermint oils add a fresh scent). A touch of vitamin E oil helps preserve shelf life so you can keep it for a few months.

Here is a simple recipe you can pour into your own squirt bottle.

 Natural Hand Sanitizer Gel

8 ounces pure aloe vera gel
30 drops tea tree oil
5-10 drops of your favorite essential oil
¼ teaspoon vitamin E oil
1 tablespoon witch hazel (optional)

If you prefer a water-based spray, try this:

Natural Hand Sanitizer Spray

4 ounces distilled water
4 drops grapefruit seed extract
4 drops tea tree oil

Jacqueline Banks is a certified Holistic Health Counselor focused on nutrition and green living strategies. She works with women in all stages of motherhood, from mothers struggling with conception, through pregnancy, lactation and beyond to ensure the best health and nutrition for both mother and baby.