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Hand sanitisers have been around for a long, long time. They used to be left at the back end of the shelves before we experienced the pandemic. However, things are very different today, and we cannot get enough of them. We have all understood the benefits of hand sanitisers and how important they can be in protecting us.

Why Are Hand Sanitizers Important?

Hand sanitizers are important because they play a crucial role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases, particularly those transmitted by hand-to-hand contact. When people touch their faces or other surfaces with unwashed hands, they can transfer germs and bacteria to those surfaces, potentially infecting others. Hand sanitizers provide an easy and convenient way to disinfect hands on the go, when hand washing with soap and water is not available.

The Importance of Hand Sanitizers in Healthcare Settings

Hand sanitizers are particularly important in healthcare settings, where infection control is critical. In hospitals and clinics, where patients may be at high risk of infection, hand sanitizers are an essential tool to help prevent the spread of infectious diseases. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers as a key part of infection prevention and control measures in healthcare settings.

The Effectiveness of Hand Sanitizers

Hand sanitizers are effective at killing a wide range of germs and bacteria. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol are effective at killing most types of bacteria and viruses, including the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. However, it is important to note that hand sanitizers are not effective against all types of germs, such as norovirus, which causes stomach flu.

Hand Sanitizers vs. Hand Washing

Hand sanitizers are not a substitute for proper hand washing with soap and water. Hand washing with soap and water is still the most effective way to remove dirt, germs, and bacteria from hands. Hand sanitizers should be used as an additional layer of protection when hand washing with soap and water is not available.

When to Use Hand Sanitisers?

Although these portable little bottles are very handy, there are times when we are better off with good old soap and water. Different situations call for different measures, so let’s take a look.

It is well-known that most sanitisers use alcohol as the main ingredient. This is what makes them so effective against bacteria. However, alcohol is not good for ingestion as far as humans are concerned. So always use soap and water before, during and after cooking or eating food. 

While caring for sick people with problems like disease or vomiting, we should always clean up afterwards. Similarly, when helping our young ones in the toilet or after changing their diapers, we should wash up with soap and water. Sanitisers should be used after soap and water. 

Alcohol-filled hand sanitisers are most effective when you use them after visiting someone at the hospital. However, hospitals are full of germs and bacteria all around, and simple things like a handrail or door knob can infect you. So consider using sanitisers as often as possible. 

Always use soap and water when your hands are visibly dirty from activities like gardening, playing, etc. The benefits of hand sanitiser come into play after that. Also, remember not to use hand sanitisers on open wounds. 

Finally, something we have all learnt from our days locked in-always use sanitiser after sneezing or coughing. Wipe down your hands and fingers thoroughly and eliminate all that bacteria.

Benefits of Hand Sanitizer

• Cleanliness is something hand sanitisers greatly promote. It comes in very handy when soap and water are not available. It doesn’t just remove germs and bacteria. It completely eliminates them. 

• Nowadays, the best sanitisers come in nifty little bottles that we can carry in our pockets. They may be small in size but are equally potent. They also have detailed instructions on how to use hand sanitiser written on the back for the uninitiated. 

• Germs and bacteria thrive in places where groups of people interact. Some common examples are bus stops, gyms, classrooms, cafes, theatres, etc. You will not have immediate access to soap and water at most of these places. So, a hand sanitiser really comes in the clutch.

• One of the top benefits of hand sanitiser is its ability to reduce the risk of having an infection or disease. We can always stay safe if we use them as prescribed and advertised. 

• Most people have begun hating alcohol-based sanitisers even though they are highly effective. So, pharma companies have developed natural sanitisers with oils and other substitutes that prevent your skin from drying out and keep them soft. 

• Bacteria are living organisms that can adapt to certain elements with time. Triclosan is a common hand soap ingredient that has been known to elevate bacterial infections. However, bacteria cannot adapt to alcohol-based sanitisers. 

• Different people can share sanitisers without the risk of spreading disease. 

• Hand sanitisers are perfect for people with sensitive skin, as some generic soaps use questionable ingredients. 

Alcohol-Based Vs Non-Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitisers

By now, we all know that there are two types of sanitisers-one with alcohol and the other without. The alcohol used in sanitisers is called Isopropyl or Rubbing Alcohol. The concentration is generally maintained somewhere between 60%-70%. On the other hand, non-alcohol-based sanitisers substitute alcohol with natural ingredients or milder chemicals. 

Alcohol-based variants are the most effective at killing microbial organisms that may cause infections. That said, they are also a fire and poison hazard. Additionally, they lead to dry skin. However, most variants come with added lotions or aloe gel.

On the other hand, non-alcohol-based variants are very mild and gentle and pose no such hazards. But they aren’t always as effective as alcohol-based variants. But, if used correctly, they place a checkmark on the how to use hand sanitiser perfectly box. 

Conclusion

Whether you are travelling in public transport, visiting a loved one at a hospital or in a group setting at a club, hand sanitisers can always be by your side, unlike soap and water. They are easy to carry and simple to use. 

To get all the benefits of hand sanitiser, you must cover the entirety of your hands and leave it on for the stipulated time. Alternatively, you can also use it on objects like door knobs, handles, lift buttons, etc.