What is hand sanitizer?
Hand sanitizer is a liquid or gel that contains alcohol to kill germs on our hands. It’s a common household and workplace item that has become even more popular during the COVID-19 pandemic. While washing hands with soap and water is the most effective way to clean hands, hand sanitizer is a convenient alternative when soap and water are not readily available.
Does hand sanitizer have an expiration date?
In short, yes. Hand sanitizer can expire and lose its effectiveness. The alcohol in the sanitizer evaporates over time, making it less potent at killing germs. Most hand sanitizers have a shelf life of about 2 to 3 years from the date of manufacture. Look for the expiration date on the label or packaging to determine if your hand sanitizer is still effective.
What happens if I use expired hand sanitizer?
If you use expired hand sanitizer, it may not be effective at killing germs and could lead to illness or infection. It’s important to use a hand sanitizer that is still within its expiration date or to replace it with a new one. Using expired hand sanitizer is not worth the risk of getting sick.
How should I store hand sanitizer?
To prolong the effectiveness of your hand sanitizer, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or heat sources. Exposure to heat or sunlight can cause the alcohol to evaporate more quickly, making the sanitizer less effective. Keep hand sanitizer out of reach of children and pets, and avoid storing it in your car or other areas where temperatures fluctuate.
Keep your hand sanitizer up-to-date
Hand sanitizer is a useful tool in fighting germs and keeping ourselves healthy, especially during a global health crisis like the COVID-19 pandemic. To ensure that your hand sanitizer is effective, check the expiration date and store it properly. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to our health.
