DIY Hand Sanitizer (above 80% ABV)
Scroll down for a DIY Hand Sanitizer recipe.
Hi, Friends. I hope you’re faring okay during these stressful and strange times.
I want to start by saying that if you’re really struggling (emotionally or financially), we at HOLLOW LEG completely understand. We’re a gig-based company, and in addition to having no current gigs, there are very few bookings in the near future. We don’t know when this will end or what will result from it. And we’re so sad for our industry friends who are struggling, and desperately want them to be okay, too.
If you are in the industry, or know people who are, there are lists of relief funds you can find here, and also the Restaurant Workers Relief Program, for immediate food and supplies. You can also donate to most of these initiatives, if you find yourself in a place where you can afford to give.
In the midst of everything, Lizzie and I are trying the best we can to stay calm, be grateful for what we do have (incredible clients for one), and keep our chins up. After all, if you know us, we try to think: WWJD? No, not Jesus - though I’m sure he’d be a solid source to turn to - we’re talking about Julia. Julia Child to be exact. She’s the inspiration behind our class format, and the reason we teach with such pluck and encourage you to be curious and bold with your cocktails in class - no putting baby in a corner!
And what she’d do in a situation like this is trudge forward! Be innovative! Support where she could! And approach situations with zest and courage!
So with that, I’m going to give you a recipe for hand sanitizer. This is that good good sanitizer. It’s above 80% ABV, which is higher than the 60% ethanol that the CDC recommends, and it can be made simply, with stuff you are likely able to find.
Without further ado, here is an idea for a hand sanitizer:
9oz. neutral grain alcohol at 96% ABV or 192 Proof (Polmos Spirytus Rektyfikowany is what I used)
3 Tbsp. coconut oil (melted)
2.5 Tbsp. water
Combine these in a spray bottle and shake, shake, shake until well combined, and it’s ready to go! You can store them in cute little travel spray bottles like these and store them in your car, in your reusable shopping bags, etc.
Here is an article about how oils dissolve in alcohol for your reference.
CHICAGO (and anyone in COOK COUNTY) FRIENDS, 96% ABV grain alcohol is NOT available within county limits. I know, I know. It’s ridiculous. If you have a friend in another county, ask them to get a big 1.75L bottle and SAFELY share it with you. If this is impossible, let me give you an easy recipe for a hand sanitizer that works:
Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. I repeat, just wash your hands with soap and water for 20 full seconds.
Be safe out there, friends. And let us know if we can do anything for you in the meantime.