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Hand Sanitizers

Best Hand Sanitizers in India - Reviews and Comparison 2021

We picked the 7 best hand sanitisers in 2021 for your budget and use cases.

Hand sanitizers were most used while travelling, but the coronavirus outbreak has made it mandatory to use even at home and offices. So, beside mask, if anything is selling like hotcakes, then that is hand sanitizer. There are so many new entries in the market for the respective product that it has become challenging to choose the right one. But no worries. Our buyer's guide will help you in selecting the most effective and best hand sanitizers in India.

UPDATED

10/21/2021

Model

Our Rating

Rating

Alcohol (in %)

Non-sticky

Moisturiser

Pro's & Con's

Quantity (in ml)

Mild Fragrance

Original Germ Protection Alcohol-based Hand Sanitizer

Dettol

Original Germ Protection Alcohol-based Hand Sanitizer

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Our Rating

9.7 / 10

12/2020

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72.34

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Non-irritating classic Dettol fragrance
Recommended by the Indian Medical Association (IMA)
Dettol’s trusted germ protection formula used
Your hands won’t feel greasy after use
500
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Himalaya

Pure Hands

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Our Rating

9.6 / 10

12/2020

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70

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Protects the skin from oxidative damage and itching
Removes excess heat from the body providing a cooling effect
Recommended and used by doctors
Available in five fragrances
500
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Dabur

Sanitize Îł - Hand Sanitizer

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Our Rating

9.5 / 10

12/2020

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70

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24 months shelf life
Moisturises the skin and makes it smooth
Rinse free
Your hands won’t feel greasy after use
450
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Mediker

Hand Sanitizer

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Our Rating

9.4 / 10

12/2020

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70

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Tough on germs and gentle on hands
One pea-size drop will kill the germs
Aloe vera moisturization
Safe for children
500
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BoroPlus

Advanced Anti-Germ Hand Sanitizer

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Our Rating

9.3 / 10

12/2020

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70

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Alcohol-based with neem & tulsi
Recommended by doctors
Antiseptic and moisturizing action
Use often without any side effects on your skin
200
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Lifebuoy

Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer

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Our Rating

9.1 / 10

12/2020

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> 60

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It has glycerine which keeps your skin moisturised
Free from any preservatives and harmful chemicals
Advanced germ protection
Kill germs in 10 seconds
500
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Amazon Brand - Solimo

Hand Sanitizer Gel

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Our Rating

9.0 / 10

12/2020

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75

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Aloe vera, tea tree and Vitamin E protect your skin
Your hands won’t feel greasy after use
Doesn’t contain any harmful chemical
Gentle on hands
500
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Dettol

Original Germ Protection Alcohol-based Hand Sanitizer


1

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Our Rating

9.7 / 10

12/2020

Pro's & Con's

Non-irritating classic Dettol fragrance
Recommended by the Indian Medical Association (IMA)
Dettol’s trusted germ protection formula used
Your hands won’t feel greasy after use

Features

Alcohol (in %)

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72.34

Non-sticky

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Moisturiser

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Quantity (in ml)

500

Mild Fragrance

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Your guides

Aditi Lohia

Aditi Lohia

Buyer's Guide - Best Hand Sanitizers in India 2021

Know all about hand sanitizers and buy the best!

1

Features: Most important purchase criteria for a hand sanitizer

What should you look for when buying a new hand sanitizer?

2

FAQ: Learn more about the details

Any questions left? Here they are, including answers.

3

How-To: Usage hints and care instructions for a hand sanitiser

Care tips for the long life of your hand sanitizer.

5

Our Picks: How we picked the best hand sanitizers

Find out how we selected and ranked the products.

1. Features: Most important purchase criteria for a hand sanitizer

1.1 Type

Hand sanitizers are either alcohol-based or alcohol-free. They both have the properties to kill microorganisms and to prevent germs causing illnesses. People can choose any one of them to control the transmission of infectious disease. However, usually, people with sensitive skin prefer alcohol-free options.

Alcohol-based: Alcohol-based hand sanitizers have 60 to 95% of alcohol content in it which consists of ethanol, propanol and isopropanol. It counter-balances the microbes and often used as a medical disinfectant.

Alcohol-free: Alcohol-free performs well in killing the germs. It has a great smell and is softer on your hands. As compared to alcohol-based, it has fewer chemicals. This is the reason that alcohol-based sanitizer is more effective and agencies like WHO and CDC promote the same over alcohol-free.

Hand sanitizers are either alcohol-based or alcohol-free. They both have the properties to kill microorganisms and to prevent germs causing illnesses. People can choose any one of them to control the transmission of infectious disease. However, usually, people with sensitive skin prefer alcohol-free options.

Alcohol-based: Alcohol-based hand sanitizers have 60 to 95% of alcohol content in it which consists of ethanol, propanol and isopropanol. It counter-balances the microbes and often used as a medical disinfectant.

Alcohol-free: Alcohol-free performs well in killing the germs. It has a great smell and is softer on your hands. As compared to alcohol-based, it has fewer chemicals. This is the reason that alcohol-based sanitizer is more effective and agencies like WHO and CDC promote the same over alcohol-free.

1.2 Alcohol Percentage

World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) research promote alcohol-based sanitizers as they have higher chances of antibiotic-resistant viruses. If you are sure of buying an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, then make sure it has more than 60% alcohol content. In fact, the CDC clearly mentions that sanitizers with 65 to 90% alcohol merely reduces the growth of germs and not kill them cent per cent.

World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) research promote alcohol-based sanitizers as they have higher chances of antibiotic-resistant viruses. If you are sure of buying an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, then make sure it has more than 60% alcohol content. In fact, the CDC clearly mentions that sanitizers with 65 to 90% alcohol merely reduces the growth of germs and not kill them cent per cent.

1.3 Alcohol Type

An alcohol-based hand sanitizer should have only two types of alcohol, i.e. isopropyl and ethyl. Any hand sanitizer, with 1-propanol or 1-propyl and methanol, should not be used. Why so? Let’s read further.

  • Methanol

Methanol is toxic alcohol, also known as wood alcohol. It is used as a raw material to fuel a machine manufacturing adhesives and foams. It is clearly not made for human ingestion. Moreover, when absorbed through the skin, it can cause nausea, vomiting, and headaches. Seizure attack, blindness, damage to the nervous system, permanent blindness are some of the worst things that can happen if it enters the body by any means in the long term.
In July of 2020, the FDA found traces of methanol in some of the hand sanitizers, and since then it has been urging buyers to check sanitizers label properly. Even if the methanol is present in the lowest dose then that sanitizer should not be purchased.

  • 1-Propanol

1-Propanol or 1-propyl is another type of alcohol not meant for human consumption. It is used as a solvent to make cleaning products. The side effects of swallowing 1-propanol are decreased breathing and heart rate, lack of coordination and reflexes, and in severe cases, death. Therefore, check the ingredients clearly. Or you can check the label for FDA approval symbol or the absence of ingredients such as 1-propanol or methanol. 

  • Ethyl

Ethyl, also known as ethanol or alcohol, is one of the only two types of alcohol permitted to use in the making of hand sanitizer. At least 60% of alcohol has to be there for killing the germs and bacteria. If your sanitizer only has ethyl as alcohol, then ensure it is at a level of a minimum of 60%. However, it is also harmful if swallowed multiple mouthfuls. Therefore, keep it out of the children's reach. 

  • Isopropyl

Isopropyl, also known as isopropanol or 2-propanol, is the only other alcohol type that is acceptable in a hand sanitizer. Similar to ethyl, if isopropyl is the only alcohol in your sanitizer, it should also be at least 60%. 

An alcohol-based hand sanitizer should have only two types of alcohol, i.e. isopropyl and ethyl. Any hand sanitizer, with 1-propanol or 1-propyl and methanol, should not be used. Why so? Let’s read further.

  • Methanol

Methanol is toxic alcohol, also known as wood alcohol. It is used as a raw material to fuel a machine manufacturing adhesives and foams. It is clearly not made for human ingestion. Moreover, when absorbed through the skin, it can cause nausea, vomiting, and headaches. Seizure attack, blindness, damage to the nervous system, permanent blindness are some of the worst things that can happen if it enters the body by any means in the long term.
In July of 2020, the FDA found traces of methanol in some of the hand sanitizers, and since then it has been urging buyers to check sanitizers label properly. Even if the methanol is present in the lowest dose then that sanitizer should not be purchased.

  • 1-Propanol

1-Propanol or 1-propyl is another type of alcohol not meant for human consumption. It is used as a solvent to make cleaning products. The side effects of swallowing 1-propanol are decreased breathing and heart rate, lack of coordination and reflexes, and in severe cases, death. Therefore, check the ingredients clearly. Or you can check the label for FDA approval symbol or the absence of ingredients such as 1-propanol or methanol. 

  • Ethyl

Ethyl, also known as ethanol or alcohol, is one of the only two types of alcohol permitted to use in the making of hand sanitizer. At least 60% of alcohol has to be there for killing the germs and bacteria. If your sanitizer only has ethyl as alcohol, then ensure it is at a level of a minimum of 60%. However, it is also harmful if swallowed multiple mouthfuls. Therefore, keep it out of the children's reach. 

  • Isopropyl

Isopropyl, also known as isopropanol or 2-propanol, is the only other alcohol type that is acceptable in a hand sanitizer. Similar to ethyl, if isopropyl is the only alcohol in your sanitizer, it should also be at least 60%. 

1.4 Moisturiser

The high content of alcohol can lead to skin irritation, dryness and make hands chapped. Unfortunately, in the process of killing germs, alcohol can even strip away skin’s natural oils. Some hand sanitizers, therefore, have moisturizers in them to help counter this. Sanitizers with natural moisturizers such as aloe vera or coconut oil are the best.

The high content of alcohol can lead to skin irritation, dryness and make hands chapped. Unfortunately, in the process of killing germs, alcohol can even strip away skin’s natural oils. Some hand sanitizers, therefore, have moisturizers in them to help counter this. Sanitizers with natural moisturizers such as aloe vera or coconut oil are the best.

1.5 Expiry Date

Hand sanitizer is monitored by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and therefore it has an expiration date and lot number printed at the back or on top of the bottle. The date indicates till the time active ingredients are stable and effective. Usually, a hand sanitizer has 2 to 3 years of shelf life. Sanitizer may be effective past its expiration date as it contains alcohol, the active ingredient. Therefore, your sanitizer may or may not work after the expiration date, but it is best to replace it because it is undoubtedly not as effective as before.

Hand sanitizer is monitored by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and therefore it has an expiration date and lot number printed at the back or on top of the bottle. The date indicates till the time active ingredients are stable and effective. Usually, a hand sanitizer has 2 to 3 years of shelf life. Sanitizer may be effective past its expiration date as it contains alcohol, the active ingredient. Therefore, your sanitizer may or may not work after the expiration date, but it is best to replace it because it is undoubtedly not as effective as before.

1.6 Skin Type

Not all of us has the same type of skin. Therefore, hand sanitizers come in different formula compositions to serve different needs. Whether you have oily or dry skin, hand sanitizer for all types is available. A hand sanitizer made for a particular skin type if used for that skin gives a perfect result. So, not only it will kill the germs but also protect your skin. Wrong hand sanitizer can cause irritation, dryness and make skin rash.

Not all of us has the same type of skin. Therefore, hand sanitizers come in different formula compositions to serve different needs. Whether you have oily or dry skin, hand sanitizer for all types is available. A hand sanitizer made for a particular skin type if used for that skin gives a perfect result. So, not only it will kill the germs but also protect your skin. Wrong hand sanitizer can cause irritation, dryness and make skin rash.

1.7 Brand

Take the first steps to good health with hygiene! When at home, always use soap and water. However, when you are on the go, a hand sanitizer ensures hygiene. A sanitizer has some chemical in it to kill germs and bacteria; however, in some cases, it can cause side effect to your health. If you are buying a sanitizer from a reputed company, it will be certainly qualitative and safe to use. And yet there is any material you are allergic to; the brand will not hide it from you. Everything that sanitizer is made of will be mentioned in the ingredients.
Phthalates and triclosan have been recognized as noxious ingredients that are present in most hand sanitizers today. So before you pick your next bottle of hand sanitizer, keep your eyes wide open.

Take the first steps to good health with hygiene! When at home, always use soap and water. However, when you are on the go, a hand sanitizer ensures hygiene. A sanitizer has some chemical in it to kill germs and bacteria; however, in some cases, it can cause side effect to your health. If you are buying a sanitizer from a reputed company, it will be certainly qualitative and safe to use. And yet there is any material you are allergic to; the brand will not hide it from you. Everything that sanitizer is made of will be mentioned in the ingredients.
Phthalates and triclosan have been recognized as noxious ingredients that are present in most hand sanitizers today. So before you pick your next bottle of hand sanitizer, keep your eyes wide open.

1.8 Ingredients

We might have listed this point at eight number, but that doesn’t make it any less important. Anything that goes into our body whether, via mouth or skin, it is our prime responsibility to check its ingredients. In fact, the reading label is all the more crucial if you have any allergy or specific skin type. Knowing the ingredients keep you away from some unforeseen risks.

We often don’t take label seriously and simply choose a product based on its look, smell, and appeal. But that’s not the right thing to do. Therefore, checking the ingredients of a hand sanitizer should be your priority and then considering its fragrance or look.

We might have listed this point at eight number, but that doesn’t make it any less important. Anything that goes into our body whether, via mouth or skin, it is our prime responsibility to check its ingredients. In fact, the reading label is all the more crucial if you have any allergy or specific skin type. Knowing the ingredients keep you away from some unforeseen risks.

We often don’t take label seriously and simply choose a product based on its look, smell, and appeal. But that’s not the right thing to do. Therefore, checking the ingredients of a hand sanitizer should be your priority and then considering its fragrance or look.

1.9 Packaging

Some new sanitizer manufacturers in the market are using packaging resembling food or beverage products. Such packaging can prove to be dangerous if you have children at home. They might ingest it assuming to be a normal liquid kept in a regular bottle.

The packaging is important to consider due to one more reason. A hand sanitizer is often used while you are on the go. The packaging should be such that you can use it easily while travelling.

Apart from this, it is best if you buy a sanitizer packed in a bottle made from recycled material.

Some new sanitizer manufacturers in the market are using packaging resembling food or beverage products. Such packaging can prove to be dangerous if you have children at home. They might ingest it assuming to be a normal liquid kept in a regular bottle.

The packaging is important to consider due to one more reason. A hand sanitizer is often used while you are on the go. The packaging should be such that you can use it easily while travelling.

Apart from this, it is best if you buy a sanitizer packed in a bottle made from recycled material.

1.10 Price

Do you also have two questions in mind when you see this point? One, is a hand sanitizer that expensive? Two, is money more important than our health?

Answering your first question, 100 rupees can be peanuts for some but not everyone. Therefore, yes, hand sanitizer can be expensive for some people.

And the answer to your next question is, no. Health is of supreme importance. However, money matters. The key here is to strike a balance between a quality hand sanitizer and the best price. Most importantly, it is not going to be a one time purchase. And we are sure; if you multiply the number of sanitizer bootle you will use in a year by the price of each bottle, the amount will astonish you.

Do you also have two questions in mind when you see this point? One, is a hand sanitizer that expensive? Two, is money more important than our health?

Answering your first question, 100 rupees can be peanuts for some but not everyone. Therefore, yes, hand sanitizer can be expensive for some people.

And the answer to your next question is, no. Health is of supreme importance. However, money matters. The key here is to strike a balance between a quality hand sanitizer and the best price. Most importantly, it is not going to be a one time purchase. And we are sure; if you multiply the number of sanitizer bootle you will use in a year by the price of each bottle, the amount will astonish you.

2. FAQ: Learn more about the details

2.1 Is it safe to use an expired hand sanitiser?

An expired hand sanitizer means its concentration has dropped below its original percentage, so, either it is less effective or completely ineffective. However, in any case, it is not dangerous to use.

An expired hand sanitizer means its concentration has dropped below its original percentage, so, either it is less effective or completely ineffective. However, in any case, it is not dangerous to use.

2.2 Does soap and water kill more germs than hand sanitiser?

Certainly washing hands with soap and water is more effective, when done properly (for 20 seconds). However, washing hands with regular soap won't kill many invisible germs. Similarly, using hand sanitizer over dirty hands is also not much effective. The best way to kill maximum germs is by washing hand with soap and water, let them dry and then use hand sanitizer.

Certainly washing hands with soap and water is more effective, when done properly (for 20 seconds). However, washing hands with regular soap won't kill many invisible germs. Similarly, using hand sanitizer over dirty hands is also not much effective. The best way to kill maximum germs is by washing hand with soap and water, let them dry and then use hand sanitizer.

2.3 When and how often should I use hand sanitiser?

  • A hand sanitizer is often used when you are out of the home or office, and water is not available.

  • It should be used in the kitchen before cooking and eating food.

  • Use it after going to the bathroom.

  • It should be used in clinical settings by doctors and nurses.

  • Use it after playing with pets.

  • Use it after completing the commute, especially in public transportation.

  • Use it in office, schools and colleges.

  • Use it at outdoor activities such as camping and travelling.

However, if you work in a manufacturing setting and have touched harmful chemicals, first wash your hands with soap and water and then use the hand sanitizer.

  • A hand sanitizer is often used when you are out of the home or office, and water is not available.

  • It should be used in the kitchen before cooking and eating food.

  • Use it after going to the bathroom.

  • It should be used in clinical settings by doctors and nurses.

  • Use it after playing with pets.

  • Use it after completing the commute, especially in public transportation.

  • Use it in office, schools and colleges.

  • Use it at outdoor activities such as camping and travelling.

However, if you work in a manufacturing setting and have touched harmful chemicals, first wash your hands with soap and water and then use the hand sanitizer.

2.4 Can alcohol-based hand sanitiser kill flu virus?

Alcohol-based hand sanitizer can kill most of the germs, bacteria, viruses. But most importantly, it can prevent transmission of the cold, flu, H1N1 and other viral and bacterial diseases. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer doesn’t stop the disease but it is effective in killing 99.9% of germs.

An alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be effective for a maximum of 6 hours.

Alcohol-based hand sanitizer can kill most of the germs, bacteria, viruses. But most importantly, it can prevent transmission of the cold, flu, H1N1 and other viral and bacterial diseases. Alcohol-based hand sanitizer doesn’t stop the disease but it is effective in killing 99.9% of germs.

An alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be effective for a maximum of 6 hours.

2.5 When should I buy an alcohol-free sanitiser?

Non-alcohol sanitizers are preferred to avoid any health or safety concerns. They are CDC approved and considered safer than alcohol sanitizers for the following reasons:

  • Avoiding the risk of ingestion of alcohol by children.

  • Zero risks of flammability.

  • No alcohol. No skin irritation. 

Non-alcohol sanitizers are preferred to avoid any health or safety concerns. They are CDC approved and considered safer than alcohol sanitizers for the following reasons:

  • Avoiding the risk of ingestion of alcohol by children.

  • Zero risks of flammability.

  • No alcohol. No skin irritation. 

2.6 Why some hand sanitisers smell so bad?

If your sanitizer smell of stinky tequila or rotten food, that’s because it is probably made with denatured ethanol instead of industry-standard ethyl alcohol. Denatured ethanol is cheaper to produce due to the lack of carbon filtration. And it is the same filtration that removes the unpleasant odour. To further add to the stink, such manufacturers use a mixture of other, just as cheap, questionable chemicals. 

If your sanitizer smell of stinky tequila or rotten food, that’s because it is probably made with denatured ethanol instead of industry-standard ethyl alcohol. Denatured ethanol is cheaper to produce due to the lack of carbon filtration. And it is the same filtration that removes the unpleasant odour. To further add to the stink, such manufacturers use a mixture of other, just as cheap, questionable chemicals. 

2.7 Is a hand sanitiser with 100% alcohol content most effective?

The alcohol percentage is essential, but more doesn't mean better. In fact, 100% of alcohol doesn't work as well for killing bacteria or denaturing viruses. The presence of water is vital for protein denaturing to occur. Also, water prevents the alcohol from evaporating as fast. A hand sanitizer with 60–90% alcohol is ideal.

The alcohol percentage is essential, but more doesn't mean better. In fact, 100% of alcohol doesn't work as well for killing bacteria or denaturing viruses. The presence of water is vital for protein denaturing to occur. Also, water prevents the alcohol from evaporating as fast. A hand sanitizer with 60–90% alcohol is ideal.

2.8 Why do manufactures add tea tree, aloe vera, vitamin E, glycerine and alike in a sanitiser?

Ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree and vitamin E mitigate the drying effect of alcohol from hands. Hand sanitizer containing moisturizing ingredients like glycerine also enhances the efficacy of alcohol.

Ingredients like aloe vera, tea tree and vitamin E mitigate the drying effect of alcohol from hands. Hand sanitizer containing moisturizing ingredients like glycerine also enhances the efficacy of alcohol.

2.9 What are the benefits of using a hand sanitiser?

A hand sanitizer is beneficial because it:

  • takes less time than hand washing.

  • acts quickly to kill microorganisms.

  • reduces bacterial counts on hands.

  • does not promote antimicrobial resistance.

A hand sanitizer is beneficial because it:

  • takes less time than hand washing.

  • acts quickly to kill microorganisms.

  • reduces bacterial counts on hands.

  • does not promote antimicrobial resistance.

3. How-To: Usage hints and care instructions for a hand sanitiser

3.1 How to use a hand sanitizer?

  • Take a palmful of hand sanitizer in a cupped hand, covering all surfaces.

  • Rub hands palm to palm.

  • Right palm over left palm with interlaced fingers and vice-versa.

  • Palm to palm - fingers interlaced.

  • Back of the fingers to opposing palms - fingers interlocked.

  • Rotational rubbing of left thumb clasped in right palm and vice versa.

  • Dry your hands and you are good to go.

  • Take a palmful of hand sanitizer in a cupped hand, covering all surfaces.

  • Rub hands palm to palm.

  • Right palm over left palm with interlaced fingers and vice-versa.

  • Palm to palm - fingers interlaced.

  • Back of the fingers to opposing palms - fingers interlocked.

  • Rotational rubbing of left thumb clasped in right palm and vice versa.

  • Dry your hands and you are good to go.

3.2 How to store a hand sanitizer?

Store a hand sanitizer in a cool place, away from any heat.

Store a hand sanitizer in a cool place, away from any heat.

3.3 What are the other usage of a hand sanitizer?

  • Take a drop of it on a soft cloth to clean your phone’s screen.

  • You can use it to make your glasses, sunglasses, windows and mirror shine.

  • Applying it on a pimple to dry it and eventually to remove it.

  • Apply it over permanent marker’s stain on whiteboards, clothing, and walls to get rid of the stain.

  • It can help in removing the fingerprint from a stainless steel product.

  • You can even sanitize makeup brushes with them and use them after they dry.

  • Take a drop of it on a soft cloth to clean your phone’s screen.

  • You can use it to make your glasses, sunglasses, windows and mirror shine.

  • Applying it on a pimple to dry it and eventually to remove it.

  • Apply it over permanent marker’s stain on whiteboards, clothing, and walls to get rid of the stain.

  • It can help in removing the fingerprint from a stainless steel product.

  • You can even sanitize makeup brushes with them and use them after they dry.

4. Did you know: Interesting facts, figures, and things to know about hand sanitizers

4.1 Hand sanitizer is not as effective as soap and water.

4.2 Hand sanitizer may fail to remove harmful chemicals such as pesticides from your hand.

4.3 Hand sanitizers are made for hospitals, where hands come into contact with germs and not factories where hands have soil and grease all over them.

4.4 Swallowing alcohol-based sanitizers can cause alcohol poisoning.

4.5 There is a proper way to use a hand sanitizer. Apply it to the palm of one hand and rub all over hands, including in between fingers and then let it dry.

4.6 Cleaning products like disinfectant sprays and antibacterial cleaning wipes are not sanitizers. They are made for hard, nonporous surfaces and not for human skin.

4.7 Hand sanitizer was first developed by an Ohio company called GOJO. In the 1940s, industrial and factory workers needed a special soap to remove tar and other substances from the hands without irritating.

4.8 In medical settings like a hospital, hand sanitizer was first introduced in 1966. However, it gained popularity in the early 1990s when a company executive read about the increased risk of infections in hospitals due to ineffective hand-washing. So, in 1996 GOJO launched Purell, a product that cleaned hands without the need for soap, water, or towels.

4.9 COVID-19 brought a flood of hand sanitizer producers. In April 2020, the FDA reported that new 1,500 manufacturers of hand sanitizer were registered.

4.1 Hand sanitizer is not as effective as soap and water.

4.2 Hand sanitizer may fail to remove harmful chemicals such as pesticides from your hand.

4.3 Hand sanitizers are made for hospitals, where hands come into contact with germs and not factories where hands have soil and grease all over them.

4.4 Swallowing alcohol-based sanitizers can cause alcohol poisoning.

4.5 There is a proper way to use a hand sanitizer. Apply it to the palm of one hand and rub all over hands, including in between fingers and then let it dry.

4.6 Cleaning products like disinfectant sprays and antibacterial cleaning wipes are not sanitizers. They are made for hard, nonporous surfaces and not for human skin.

4.7 Hand sanitizer was first developed by an Ohio company called GOJO. In the 1940s, industrial and factory workers needed a special soap to remove tar and other substances from the hands without irritating.

4.8 In medical settings like a hospital, hand sanitizer was first introduced in 1966. However, it gained popularity in the early 1990s when a company executive read about the increased risk of infections in hospitals due to ineffective hand-washing. So, in 1996 GOJO launched Purell, a product that cleaned hands without the need for soap, water, or towels.

4.9 COVID-19 brought a flood of hand sanitizer producers. In April 2020, the FDA reported that new 1,500 manufacturers of hand sanitizer were registered.

5. Our Picks: How we picked the best hand sanitizers

Our guide is on alcohol-based hand sanitizers; therefore, our focus was on finding hand sanitizers that have alcohol percentage range of 60% to 90%. Often the use of sanitizer can make the skin dry; therefore, our next step was to shortlist hand sanitizers that also have moisturizing material in them. Besides this, it should not be sticky, grassy, and stink. We found all this in our top seven best hand sanitizers. Surprisingly, the Indian audience also admires these seven the most.

Our guide is on alcohol-based hand sanitizers; therefore, our focus was on finding hand sanitizers that have alcohol percentage range of 60% to 90%. Often the use of sanitizer can make the skin dry; therefore, our next step was to shortlist hand sanitizers that also have moisturizing material in them. Besides this, it should not be sticky, grassy, and stink. We found all this in our top seven best hand sanitizers. Surprisingly, the Indian audience also admires these seven the most.

5.1 Dettol Original Germ Protection Alcohol-based Hand Sanitizer

Whenever cleaning supplies, disinfectant and antiseptic related products come to mind, Dettol is the most preferred brand for it. The company started its journey in 1932, and since then it has instilled a sense of security and trust among the Indian audience. In fact, Dettol is no more a brand for antiseptic but an adjective itself. Dettol is the best hand sanitizer as per customer reviews as well as our research.


The National Integrated Medical Association recommends the Dettol alcohol-based hand sanitizer. And with 72.34% alcohol content, it meets the condition of CDC and WHO as well. It has a classic Dettol fragrance, and it is very much safe for both children and adults to use. Moreover, it is non-sticky, and your hands won't feel greasy or slimy after use.


Our pick is a refill bottle; however, it is available in small bottles as well which you can carry while travelling.

Whenever cleaning supplies, disinfectant and antiseptic related products come to mind, Dettol is the most preferred brand for it. The company started its journey in 1932, and since then it has instilled a sense of security and trust among the Indian audience. In fact, Dettol is no more a brand for antiseptic but an adjective itself. Dettol is the best hand sanitizer as per customer reviews as well as our research.


The National Integrated Medical Association recommends the Dettol alcohol-based hand sanitizer. And with 72.34% alcohol content, it meets the condition of CDC and WHO as well. It has a classic Dettol fragrance, and it is very much safe for both children and adults to use. Moreover, it is non-sticky, and your hands won't feel greasy or slimy after use.


Our pick is a refill bottle; however, it is available in small bottles as well which you can carry while travelling.

5.2 Himalaya Pure Hands

Our next sanitizer is from the flagship brand, Himalaya. Its pure hand sanitizer is making noise, especially for the fragrances it provides. Our review is on orange fragrance; however, the product is also available in green apple, strawberry, litchi, and lemon.

It has 70% alcohol which kills 99.9% of germs. The ingredients also include neem, ginger, nutgrass and a few other herbs, fighting against microbes and bacteria to provide you complete protection. Well, it's Himalaya, how could not it have Ayurvedic properties! Moreover, it is a mild and gentle-on-the-hands product.

Our next sanitizer is from the flagship brand, Himalaya. Its pure hand sanitizer is making noise, especially for the fragrances it provides. Our review is on orange fragrance; however, the product is also available in green apple, strawberry, litchi, and lemon.

It has 70% alcohol which kills 99.9% of germs. The ingredients also include neem, ginger, nutgrass and a few other herbs, fighting against microbes and bacteria to provide you complete protection. Well, it's Himalaya, how could not it have Ayurvedic properties! Moreover, it is a mild and gentle-on-the-hands product.

5.3 Dabur Sanitize Îł - Hand Sanitizer

On number three, we have another India’s most trusted brand, Dabur. It is no less than the brand occupying our first two spots. We have ranked it third solely because of less number of customer ratings.

Let’s simply check the boxes. 70% alcohol-check. Rinse free-check. Non-sticky-check. Non-irritating fragrance-check. Two years shelf life-check. Protection against germ transfer-check.

What else do you need?

On number three, we have another India’s most trusted brand, Dabur. It is no less than the brand occupying our first two spots. We have ranked it third solely because of less number of customer ratings.

Let’s simply check the boxes. 70% alcohol-check. Rinse free-check. Non-sticky-check. Non-irritating fragrance-check. Two years shelf life-check. Protection against germ transfer-check.

What else do you need?

5.4 Mediker Hand Sanitizer

Marico's brand Mediker became famous for anti-lice shampoo, and since then it continued winning the Indian audience's trust. With 70% alcohol, the Mediker hand sanitizer meets the alcohol percentage condition of both the CDC and WHO. The packaging is such that you can easily carry it while travelling.
It cleans your hand without using any soap and water. Furthermore, it is non-sticky and has aloe vera moisturization. It is safe to use for both children and adults. The Mediker hand sanitizer is tough on germs and gentle on hands.

Marico's brand Mediker became famous for anti-lice shampoo, and since then it continued winning the Indian audience's trust. With 70% alcohol, the Mediker hand sanitizer meets the alcohol percentage condition of both the CDC and WHO. The packaging is such that you can easily carry it while travelling.
It cleans your hand without using any soap and water. Furthermore, it is non-sticky and has aloe vera moisturization. It is safe to use for both children and adults. The Mediker hand sanitizer is tough on germs and gentle on hands.

5.5 BoroPlus Advanced Anti-Germ Hand Sanitizer

The advanced anti-germ hand sanitizer from BoroPlus is indeed effective and quick in killing germs. It kills 99.99% of germs in no time. Doctors recommend the product, and packaging is such that you can carry it anywhere conveniently. In total, it has 70% alcohol content and 95% ethyl alcohol. Besides, it also has tea tree oil, neem, tulsi, lemon extract and a soothing fragrance. Last but not least, it has both antiseptic and moisturizing properties.

The advanced anti-germ hand sanitizer from BoroPlus is indeed effective and quick in killing germs. It kills 99.99% of germs in no time. Doctors recommend the product, and packaging is such that you can carry it anywhere conveniently. In total, it has 70% alcohol content and 95% ethyl alcohol. Besides, it also has tea tree oil, neem, tulsi, lemon extract and a soothing fragrance. Last but not least, it has both antiseptic and moisturizing properties.

5.6 Lifebuoy Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitizer

Lifebuoy is a renowned brand in the Indian market, and also, it has great customer ratings. However, yet we have given it position six because it has a little more than 60% alcohol content which approved by CDC but not WHO. As per WHO, a minimum of 70% alcohol content should be there in a hand sanitizer.


Other features are point on in this sanitizer. Despite 60% of alcohol content, it gives instant protection from germs. It is free of harmful chemicals and has glycerine in it, which leaves your skin feeling moisturized.


It is effective in killing 99.99% of bacteria and virus without water. It works in just 10 seconds and protects your hands for long hours.

Lifebuoy is a renowned brand in the Indian market, and also, it has great customer ratings. However, yet we have given it position six because it has a little more than 60% alcohol content which approved by CDC but not WHO. As per WHO, a minimum of 70% alcohol content should be there in a hand sanitizer.


Other features are point on in this sanitizer. Despite 60% of alcohol content, it gives instant protection from germs. It is free of harmful chemicals and has glycerine in it, which leaves your skin feeling moisturized.


It is effective in killing 99.99% of bacteria and virus without water. It works in just 10 seconds and protects your hands for long hours.

5.7 Amazon Brand - Solimo Hand Sanitizer Gel

Infused with tea tree, aloe vera and vitamin E extracts, this Amazon brand's Solimo hand sanitizer is safe and gentle. The gel-based hand sanitizer is an alcohol-based formulation with 75% alcohol. It has all the good properties of a hand sanitizer. In fact, it has the maximum alcohol content amongst all sanitizers on our list. Despite that, it has got the seventh rank as a consumer have a complaint of alcohol content not mentioned on the label.
Its non-sticky formula ensures easy application. The fragrance is excellent, and it kills germ without making your hands dry. Checkout reviews and comparison of best skin whitening creams, best face primer, best soaps, best face concealer stick, best lip gloss, best compact powders in India

Infused with tea tree, aloe vera and vitamin E extracts, this Amazon brand's Solimo hand sanitizer is safe and gentle. The gel-based hand sanitizer is an alcohol-based formulation with 75% alcohol. It has all the good properties of a hand sanitizer. In fact, it has the maximum alcohol content amongst all sanitizers on our list. Despite that, it has got the seventh rank as a consumer have a complaint of alcohol content not mentioned on the label.
Its non-sticky formula ensures easy application. The fragrance is excellent, and it kills germ without making your hands dry. Checkout reviews and comparison of best skin whitening creams, best face primer, best soaps, best face concealer stick, best lip gloss, best compact powders in India