Hand sanitizer: reading the Drug Facts label and comparing price

Reading the Drug Facts label

• Active ingredient: the label lists it. Many hand sanitizers list an alcohol as the active ingredient. Read what yours says.
• Directions: the label says how much to use and how to apply it.
• Warnings: read them. They include flammability, use near the eyes and what to do if swallowed.
• Fragrance-free and dye-free: described in the inactive ingredients. Check the list if you are sensitive.
• Moisturizing and gentle: marketing words. Read the ingredients and what the maker says it is meant for.
• Expiration date: check it, and do not use a product after it.

Be careful with certain products

The FDA has warned the public about some hand sanitizers that were found to contain methanol, a toxic alcohol that is not an acceptable ingredient, and it has published lists of products to avoid. Check the FDA's website and the product label if you are unsure about a product, and do not use products with a label that looks wrong. Keep hand sanitizer out of the reach of children, since swallowing it is dangerous, and follow the label's instructions if someone does.

Flammability and storage

• Many hand sanitizers contain alcohol and are flammable. Keep them away from flames and heat, and let your hands dry before going near a flame.
• Store them as the label says, and not in a hot car.
• Keep them out of reach of children and pets.

Our angle: pocket sizes versus refills

Small bottles cost much more per ounce than a large pump bottle, so refill your small ones from a larger one if the label allows, and compare price per fluid ounce. Check that the larger bottle comes from a brand you can verify. Also compare gel, foam and spray by how long a bottle lasts in your hands, since each is used differently. Public health agencies generally say that soap and water are the better choice when hands are visibly dirty, so a sanitizer is an extra tool, not a replacement. Check their current guidance.

1. Divide the price by the fluid ounces for the price per ounce.
2. Compare pocket bottles with refill sizes on that number.
3. Note how long a bottle lasts in your daily use.