Hand sanitizer became a household staple during the pandemic, but now that the world has overproduced it, you might find yourself with an excess supply. Let’s explore some clever uses for hand sanitizer that you may not have thought of.
Contents
- 15 Creative Uses for Hand Sanitizer
- 1. Clean Your Glasses
- 2. Remove Sticky Residue
- 3. Polish Jewelry
- 4. Deodorize Shoes
- 5. Sanitize Your Phone Screen
- 6. Remove Ink Stains
- 7. Clean Household Surfaces
- 8. Spot-Clean Makeup Brushes
- 9. Defog Glass and Mirrors
- 10. Ease Itchy Bug Bites
- 11. Fire Starter
- 12. Remove Nail Polish
- 13. Fix Stuck Zippers
- 14. Freshen Up Your Keyboard
- 15. Prevent Blisters
15 Creative Uses for Hand Sanitizer
Instead of letting it go to waste, consider these alternative uses for hand sanitizer that go beyond its primary function of killing germs.
1. Clean Your Glasses
Hand sanitizer can quickly remove smudges and dirt from your eyeglasses or sunglasses. Apply a small amount to a microfiber cloth and gently wipe the lenses for a streak-free shine.
Did you know that you can also use vodka to as an eyeglass cleaner?
2. Remove Sticky Residue
The alcohol content in hand sanitizer makes it an excellent solution for removing sticky residue from labels, price tags, or stickers. Rub a small amount over the area, let it sit for a minute, and wipe clean.
3. Polish Jewelry
Revive your tarnished or dull jewelry with a quick polish using hand sanitizer. Dab a small amount on a soft cloth and rub gently over rings, bracelets, or earrings to restore their sparkle. (Avoid using it on porous stones like pearls.)
4. Deodorize Shoes
Shoes smelling less than fresh? Hand sanitizer’s alcohol content can help eliminate odor-causing bacteria. Apply a small amount to the insides of your shoes, spread it evenly, and let it dry.
5. Sanitize Your Phone Screen
Phones collect a lot of germs. Use hand sanitizer sparingly on a soft cloth to clean and sanitize your phone screen. Be cautious not to apply it directly to the phone to avoid damage.
6. Remove Ink Stains
Accidentally mark yourself with ink? Hand sanitizer can break down ink stains on skin and some fabrics. Apply a small amount, rub gently, and rinse.
7. Clean Household Surfaces
Hand sanitizer works well for quick cleaning tasks. Use it to wipe down doorknobs, remote controls, or other frequently touched surfaces when you’re in a pinch.
8. Spot-Clean Makeup Brushes
If you need to quickly clean your makeup brushes between uses, hand sanitizer can help. Add a little to a cloth and swirl the brush in it to remove makeup residue.
9. Defog Glass and Mirrors
Prevent glass and mirrors from fogging by applying a thin layer of hand sanitizer and buffing it in with a cloth. This can be especially helpful for bathroom mirrors or car windows.
10. Ease Itchy Bug Bites
The alcohol in hand sanitizer can help reduce itching and inflammation from bug bites. Dab a small amount onto the bite for relief.
11. Fire Starter
Hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol can serve as a makeshift fire starter in emergencies. Apply a small amount to kindling, and it will ignite easily.
12. Remove Nail Polish
Run out of nail polish remover? Hand sanitizer can work in a pinch. Apply a small amount to a cotton ball and rub it over your nails to dissolve the polish.
13. Fix Stuck Zippers
A stuck zipper can be frustrating. Use a dab of hand sanitizer as a lubricant to free the jam. Apply it to the zipper teeth and gently work the zipper up and down.
14. Freshen Up Your Keyboard
Hand sanitizer can help sanitize and clean your computer keyboard. Apply a small amount to a cloth and wipe down the keys to remove dirt and germs.
15. Prevent Blisters
Runners and hikers can use hand sanitizer to reduce friction and prevent blisters. Apply a small amount to areas prone to chafing before putting on socks or shoes.
With these clever hacks, you can make good use of any surplus hand sanitizer lying around your home. Not only will you reduce waste, but you’ll also discover just how versatile this common product can be.
