My home isn't a hospital (thanks to strong immune systems), so I use this homemade hand sanitizer only when we can't wash our hands or are worried about bad bacteria.

My strategy when it comes to keeping the nasty bacteria at bay is to make sure my kids’ immune systems are strong.

We rarely use natural hand sanitizer and prefer hand washing. I keep a bottle of homemade hand sanitizer by the sink for after handling meat or diapers.

Here are my go-to hand sanitizer recipes. I start out with the most gentle. Increase the strength as needed.

Homemade Hand Sanitizer Recipe (Safe for Kids) This homemade hand sanitizer recipe is non-drying with an herbal gel base and nourishes with aloe vera. It’s so simple that your children can help you make it.

Materials – ¼ cup aloe vera gel – 20 drops germ destroyer essential oil

Instructions – Mix all ingredients and store in a reusable silicone tube. – Use as needed to naturally remove germs from hands.

Ingredients – 1 TBSP rubbing alcohol – 1/2 tsp vegetable glycerin (optional) – 1/4 cup aloe vera gel – 20 drops Germ Destroyer oil – 1 TBSP distilled water or colloidal silver/ionic silver for extra antibacterial power – other essential oils (just for scent)