Do Hand Sanitisers Expire?
Date Posted:13 October 2021
Hand sanitizers are a popular option for combatting the COVID-19 virus. But how long are they effective for and do they still work after expiration? Read on to find out.
Yes, they do.
There is an expiration date on hand sanitisers. Recently expired sanitiser may still be useful, although it is likely to be less effective than a current product.
A product's expiration date specifies how long it is expected to be stable and effective.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends using a sanitiser with a shelf life of at least two years. However, they point out that the actual shelf life is affected by storage conditions as well as the type of alcohol in the sanitiser.
Why Do Hand Sanitisers Expire?
Hand sanitisers are classified into two types: alcohol-based and non-alcohol-based.
The principal active element in alcohol-based sanitisers is either ethanol or isopropyl. The antimicrobial benzalkonium chloride is found in non-alcohol-based hand sanitisers. Both include water as well as glycerol or other humectants to help prevent skin dryness.
When exposed to air, alcohol evaporates. Because hand sanitiser containers are not airtight, some alcohol evaporation may occur once the seal is removed. As a result, the alcohol concentration in alcohol-based hand sanitiser gradually decreases over time, reducing the product's antibacterial qualities.
Is Expired Hand Sanitiser Safe?
The effectiveness of an expired hand sanitiser is determined in part by how much of its alcohol has evaporated. If the alcohol content falls below 60%, it may become less efficient against some infections while remaining effective against others.
Hand sanitisers that have expired may be less effective against specific infections, but they are still generally safe to use.
Using Hand Sanitisers Effectively Against COVID-19
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol to kill off the COVID-19 virus.
To use hand sanitisers effectively, take the following steps:
- Check the bottle to ensure that the hand sanitiser is not out of date.
- A liberal amount should be applied to the palm of one hand.
- Rub your hands together to distribute the hand sanitiser across the surfaces of your hands and fingers.
- Allow the sanitiser to dry naturally.
Hand sanitiser is only for exterior use. Swallowing it can have serious consequences, particularly in children.
Handwashing vs Hand Sanitisers
People should wash their hands with soap and water as often as possible, according to the CDCe. Soap and water are more effective against various infectious diseases, including the COVID-19 virus, than hand sanitiser.
If soap and water are not accessible, an alcohol-based hand sanitiser can be used to reduce the amount of microorganisms on the hands.
Summary
If soap and water are not accessible, an alcohol-based hand sanitiser can be used to reduce the amount of microorganisms on the hands.
Hand sanitisers are classified into two types: alcohol-based and non-alcohol-based. Sanitisers containing at least 60% Trusted Source alcohol are recommended by the CDC.
Alcohol is a volatile chemical that evaporates quickly when exposed to air. As a result, alcohol-based hand sanitisers may lose effectiveness as the alcohol evaporates. Choose a product with a minimum shelf life of two years and try to replace any expired hand sanitiser.
