Best Non-Toxic Hand Sanitizer in 2025
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What we look for:
- Thoughtful formulas made with natural or safe synthetic ingredients
- Free from parabens, PEGs, phthalates, harsh sulfates, BHA/BHT, artificial dyes, formaldehyde-releasing ingredients, and undisclosed synthetic fragrance (unless certified safe)
- Minimal, well-chosen preservatives
- Trusted third-party certifications when available
- Transparent sourcing, ingredient lists, and manufacturing practices
Find Non-Toxic Hand Sanitizer
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Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Hand Sanitizer Naturals with Plant Based Alcohol - Purell
Product Details
- Made with naturally derived plant-based ethanol, ensuring a non-toxic formula.
- Free from triclosan, parabens, phthalates, and other harsh preservatives.
- EcoLogo and USDA Biobased certified, highlighting its environmentally friendly composition.
- Includes essential oils and skin conditioners for a gentle and moisturizing experience.
- Effective and convenient for quick germ-killing when soap and water aren't an option.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Keeps hands moisturized and soft with regular use.
- Mild and fresh scent that many enjoy.
- Plant-based alcohol makes it an eco-friendly choice.
- Available in convenient sizes perfect for portability.
Cons
- Some users may find the scent does not match the advertised citrus aroma.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Ethyl Alcohol 70% V/V
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Hand Sanitizer Spray - Everyone
Product Details
- Made with non-GMO, plant-derived alcohol to effectively combat germs.
- Infused with pure essential oils for a refreshing coconut and lemon scent.
- Contains moisturizing ingredients like vegetable glycerin and jojoba seed oil to prevent dryness.
- Free from harmful chemicals, including parabens, triclosan, and synthetic fragrances.
- Packaged in 100% recyclable materials to support a zero-waste mission.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Delightful coconut and lemon scent loved by many users.
- Does not dry out or irritate skin, leaving hands feeling soft.
- Compact size makes it perfect for travel and easy to carry.
- Made with clean, non-toxic ingredients.
- No sticky residue after application.
Cons
- If you're sensitive to strong scents, this fragrance might be a bit too bold.
- Some users might prefer the discontinued Peppermint and Citrus version for its fragrance.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Active Ingredients: Ethanol 62%, Inactive Ingredients: Purified Water, Vegetable Glycerin, Citrus Medica Limonum (Lemon) Peel Oil, Organic Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Flavor Extract, Organic Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Carbomer, Dimethicone, Aminomethyl Propanol
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Hand Sanitizer Spray - Attitude
Product Details
- Certified EWG Verified to ensure it contains no potentially concerning ingredients.
- Contains soothing vegetable glycerin and leaves extracts to help prevent dryness.
- Mild on hands while effectively eliminating harmful bacteria and germs.
- Features a naturally calming scent with notes of orange blossom and eucalyptus.
- Vegan formulation and sustainable packaging made from recyclable materials.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Free from nasty or chemical smells, with a lovely orange scent.
- Quick-drying and leaves no sticky residue.
- EWG verified, reassuring for those mindful of product safety.
- Compact size makes it convenient for travel and on-the-go use.
Cons
- Some users might find the scent unusual, especially if sensitive to fragrance nuances.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Active Ingredient: Ethyl Alcohol (72%), Inactive Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Nasturtium Officinale (Watercress) Extract, Tropaeolum Majus (Indian Cress) Extract, Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract, Hexyl Salicylate, Geranyl Acetate, Hexyl Acetate
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Organic Hand Sanitizer Spray - Dr. Bronner's
Product Details
- Formulated with only organic ingredients for a safe and pure cleansing experience.
- Versatile usage from sanitizing hands to freshening the air.
- Avoids harsh chemicals found in conventional sanitizers, ensuring gentle care.
- Ideal for quick cleansing when soap and water are unavailable, perfect for on-the-go use.
- Certified organic under the National Organic Program for assured quality and sustainability.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Has a pleasant lavender scent that many find refreshing.
- Gentle on the skin, avoiding dryness and irritation.
- Free from harsh chemicals, reassuring for health-conscious users.
- Works as a deodorizer in a pinch and doesn't leave a sticky residue.
- Compact and convenient size for carrying in bags and purses.
Cons
- Some users experience leaking bottles during shipping, resulting in lost product.
- A few customers feel the scent doesn't align with their expectations.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Organic Fair Trade Ethyl Alcohol (62%)*, Water, Organic Glycerin**, Organic Lavender Oil *Certified Fair Trade Ingredient **Sourced From Organic Soy
Hand Sanitizer - Primally Pure
Product Details
- 63% organic grape alcohol for effective germ defense
- Infused with immune-supporting essential oils
- Soothing aloe vera and vegetable glycerin to nourish skin
- Non-toxic formula safe for frequent use
- Supports wellness while protecting against bacteria and viruses
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Gentle on skin and does not cause dryness or irritation, even with frequent use.
- Variety of pleasant scents and formulas to suit different preferences.
- Effective at keeping hands clean without the harshness of typical sanitizers.
- Convenient small-sized bottles ideal for on-the-go use.
- Non-drying formula leaves hands feeling soft and refreshed.
Cons
- Some users may find the scent less appealing compared to others, which is a matter of personal preference.
Ingredients
Ingredients: Organic Grape Alcohol, Organic Aloe Vera Juice, Organic Vegetable Glycerin, Essential Oils of Organic Lavender, Organic Rosemary and Organic Peppermint *
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Plant-Based Hand Sanitizer Spray - The Honest Company
Product Details
- Effectively kills 99.9% of germs and bacteria.
- Safe and gentle for all family members (ages 3 and up).
- Hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested for sensitive skin.
- Quick-drying formula leaves no sticky residue.
- Convenient for on-the-go cleaning without soap and water.
- Made without toxic ingredients like parabens and synthetic fragrances.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Gentle on the skin and non-drying, safe for kids and adults alike.
- Convenient spray format that's easy and mess-free to use.
- Light or no fragrance options available, suitable for those with scent sensitivities.
- Compact size fits perfectly in purses and bags for on-the-go use.
- Fast-drying and non-sticky, great for quick sanitizing needs.
Cons
- Some users experienced issues with leaking bottles or packaging defects.
- Occasional variations in scent preferences reported.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Active Ingredient: Ethyl Alcohol (72%), Inactive Ingredients: Water, Glycerin, Nasturtium Officinale (Watercress) Extract, Tropaeolum Majus (Indian Cress) Extract, Olea Europaea (Olive) Leaf Extract, Hexyl Salicylate, Geranyl Acetate, Hexyl Acetate
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Organic Beeswax Hand Sanitizer Pocket Spray - Bee Clean
Product Details
- Kills 99.9% of germs using natural antimicrobial peptides and organic ethyl alcohol.
- Makes hands feel soft and non-sticky through moisturizing ingredients like beeswax and avocado oil.
- Offers a refreshing scent with lavender and citrus peppermint essential oils.
- Pocket-sized with recyclable packaging, perfect for on-the-go use.
- Made in the USA with 100% organic and natural ingredients.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Compact and portable, easily fits into pockets, purses, or small bags.
- Fresh, pleasant scents from natural oils without harsh chemicals or alcohol.
- Dries quickly without leaving sticky residue, perfect for frequent use.
- Gentle on hands and doesn't cause dryness, ideal for those sensitive to alcohol.
- Eco-friendly packaging that's easy to use with a convenient spray design.
Cons
- Some users may find the scent not as impressive as expected, based on personal preference.
- The product might require more frequent application, as the bottle could run out sooner.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Organic Ethyl Alcohol, Distilled Water, Organic Peppermint Oil, Organic Lemon Oil, Organic Apricot Oil, Organic Avocado Oil, Organic Beeswax, Organic Vitamin E, Organic Polylysine
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
On Guard Sanitizing Mist - Doterra
Product Details
- Kills 99.9% of germs and bacteria, keeping your hands hygienically clean.
- Infused with moisturizing apple extract to keep your hands soft.
- Offers an invigorating citrus spice aroma for a refreshing experience.
- Perfect when soap and water are unavailable, such as during travel.
- Ideal for sanitizing hands after touching gym equipment, door handles, and shopping carts.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Refreshing citrus scent, free from harsh alcohol smell.
- Made from essential oils, gentle on sensitive skin like eczema.
- Portable and convenient for on-the-go sanitizing.
- Keeps hands soft and moisturized without drying out.
- Offers a lovely aroma, perfect for those who enjoy aromatherapy.
Cons
- Some might find the bottle size too small for frequent use.
- Remember to shake well before use to mix ingredients properly.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Ethyl Alcohol, Water (Aqua), Pyrus Malus (Apple) Fruit Extract, Glycerin, Eucalyptus Globulus Leaf Oil, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus (Clove) Bud Oil, Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Leaf Oil, Cinnamomum Zeylanicum Bark Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis (Rosemary) Leaf/Stem Oil
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Hand Sanitizer Gel - EO
Product Details
- Provides a natural and effective way to clean your hands on the go or at home.
- Made with organic, non-GMO ingredients to ensure safety and sustainability.
- Contains 62% ethanol, exceeding CDC recommendations for germ protection.
- Sanitizes and moisturizes without the need for water, making it convenient for use anywhere.
- Infused with the calming aroma of lavender to relax and soothe the senses.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Offers a calming, soothing aroma with organic ingredients.
- Many users find the scent to be pleasant and reminiscent of a spa.
- Non-drying and softens hands due to natural ingredients.
- Utilizes essential oils instead of artificial fragrances for a clean, natural scent.
- Non-toxic formulation ideal for frequent use without worries.
Cons
- Some users may find the scent too strong or herbal.
- A few noted a sticky or gritty texture when not dried properly.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Active Ingredient: Ethanol; Inactive Ingredients: Purified Water, Vegetable Glycerin, EO Essential Oil Blend [Organic Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Lavandula Hybrida Oil], Organic Simmondsia Chinensis (Jojoba) Seed Oil, Carbomer, Dimethicone, Aminomethyl Propanol
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Thieves Waterless Hand Purifier with Peppermint Oil - Young Living
Product Details
- Keeps your hands clean and fresh with an effective formula.
- Suitable for the whole family, promoting good hygiene practices.
- Formulated to avoid drying out your skin, leaving hands soft and clean.
- Infused with peppermint oil for a refreshing scent.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Cleans effectively without drying out your skin.
- Features a delightful scent that users love.
- Convenient small size for easy portability.
Cons
- Some users experienced package leaking issues.
- May not match the scent expected by users familiar with the brand.
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Alcohol Denat, Water, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Powder, Glycerin, Hydroxypropyl Cellulose, Mentha Piperita† (Peppermint) Oil, Eugenia Caryophyllus† (Clove) Bud Oil, Citrus Limon† (Lemon) Peel Oil, Eucalyptus Radiata† Leaf Oil, Rosmarinus Officinalis† (Rosemary) Leaf Oil, Cinnamomum Zeylanicum† (Cinnamon) Bark Oil, †Premium Essential Oil
Common Harmful Chemicals in Hand Sanitizer
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Butylparaben, a chemical used in various products, has been shown to cause skin irritation in humans and potential sensitization in dermatitis patients. Animal studies indicate that it has low to moderate oral toxicity and can cause damage to the liver, spleen, and thymus. It can also lead to cell proliferation in rats' stomachs, though it was not found to be carcinogenic or mutagenic. However, it may negatively impact sperm viability and activity, as demonstrated in different in vitro and in vivo studies. Lastly, it proposed weaker aquatic toxicity compared to parabens with longer alkyl chains, but still showed estrogenic effects in certain fish species.
Ethylparaben is a chemical used as a preservative in various products including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and adhesives. It exhibits low toxicity in humans and animals, but can cause skin irritation, particularly when applied to damaged skin, and may worsen pre-existing skin conditions. Despite causing cell proliferation in rats' forestomachs and chromosomal aberrations in a hamster ovary cell test, it has shown no evidence of causing cancer. However, it was found to be toxic to fetuses at doses toxic to the mother, though it did not cause malformations (nonteratogenic). Interestingly, while it impacted sperm viability in lab conditions, it showed no negative effects on mouse sperm in actuality.
Campaign For Safe Cosmetics: Parabens, Product Profile: Hand Sanitizer, Parabens At A Glance, What to Know About Parabens, The effects of ethylparaben and propylparaben on the development and fecundity of Drosophila melanogaster, Ethylparaben, Amended Safety Assessment of Parabens as Used in Cosmetics, WHAT ARE PARABENS: CHEMICAL FREE LIVING, Biomonitoring Summary
Isobutylparaben belongs to the paraben family of preservatives used in the food, pharmaceutical, and personal care product industries. Parabens mimic estrogen and have been found in breast cancer tumors in some studies. Parabens are commonly found in various personal care products and foods and have been associated with endocrine disruption, skin cancer risk, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and potential behavioral changes in offspring when exposed during gestation.
Isopropylparaben belongs to the parabens family of preservatives utilized in the food, pharmaceutical, and personal care sectors. Parabens have estrogen-mimicking properties and pose a potential risk as endocrine disruptors. Research has detected parabens in the breast cancer tumors of a significant number of studied women, raising concerns about their safety and hormonal effects.
Methylparaben is an antimicrobial preservative used in food, drugs, and cosmetics. Some individuals can develop contact dermatitis on skin exposure, and allergic reactions have been reported on ingestion, though the evidence is not conclusive. Data from animal studies suggest that methylparaben is practically non-toxic and non-irritating in normal skin conditions, with high thresholds for observed adverse effects. However, it showed chromosome aberrations in a cell assay and variable results in different uterotrophic assays. An ecotoxicity study found changes in the expression of certain genes at specific concentrations in male medaka, a type of fish.
2-Phenoxyethanol is a hazardous substance toxic by all routes of exposure, and is used widely in products like cosmetics, soaps, and inks, among others. The effects of exposure to this faintly aromatic, colorless, oily liquid can include eye irritation, headaches, tremors, and CNS depression. It's crucial to rinse exposed eyes with tepid water for at least 15 minutes and to wash exposed skin thoroughly with soap and water in case of contact. The substance requires preheating before ignition can occur, and if involved in a fire, gentle water spray can extinguish the fire by inducing frothing.
Phthalates, linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, and cancer, are banned in the European Union but remain prevalent in U.S. cosmetics. They are widely used in personal care products, such as nail polish, fragrances, and eyelash glue and other products. A significant loophole allows phthalates to be added to fragrances without disclosure. Health concerns include endocrine disruption, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and potential carcinogenicity.
Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Phthalates, Product Profile: Hand Sanitizer, Phthalates in Cosmetics, Phthalates in cosmetic and personal care products: concentrations and possible dermal exposure, A Survey of Phthalates and Parabens in Personal Care Products from the United States and Its Implications for Human Exposure, Phthalates Factsheet, BPA and Phthalates: Chemicals found in our homes
Propylparaben is a stable, non-volatile compound utilized as an antimicrobial preservative in food, drugs, and cosmetics. Human exposure can cause sensitization especially if applied to damaged skin and may cause contact sensitivity with high concentrations. Extensive animal studies reveal that propylparaben is relatively non-toxic, yet it can mildly irritate skin, affect sperm counts in substantial levels, and trigger cell proliferation in the forestomach of rats. However, it is not carcinogenic, mutagenic, or clastogenic, and a significant no-observed-adverse-effect level was reported in rats. Ecotoxicity studies show that it can lead to an increase in plasma vitellogenin levels in rainbow trout and a significant decline of vitellogenin production in zebrafish at varying concentrations.
Styrene is a colorless to yellowish, oily liquid used mainly in plastic, synthetic rubber, and resin production but also as a flavoring agent. Acute human exposure can cause irritation, drowsiness, and vertigo, with skin blistering and dermatitis resulting from long-term contact. It has been linked to increased rates of certain types of cancer, liver effects, and problems with the reproductive system. Animal studies have similarly shown irritation, central nervous system effects, and links to cancers. Styrene's endocrine disruptor activity appears negligible in humans and other vertebrates, but there is evidence of impact in certain aquatic species.
1,4-Dioxane is a clear, water-soluble liquid that is primarily used as a solvent in chemical manufacturing and laboratory reagents. Other uses leverage its solvent properties, including cosmetics, detergents, and shampoos. However, manufacturers generally reduce 1,4-Dioxane to low levels in these products due to its potential health risks. Acute exposure can result in symptoms such as vertigo, drowsiness, and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and skin. Chronic exposure may lead to liver and kidney damage, and the substance is classified as a probable human carcinogen by the EPA. Notably, severe kidney and liver damage, CNS effects, and even death have been recorded after heavy or prolonged exposure.
What Is 1,4-Dioxane in Laundry and Cleaning Products?, Effect of ethoxylation and lauryl alcohol on the self-assembly of sodium laurylsulfate: Significant structural and rheological transformation, Final Risk Evaluation for 1,4-Dioxane, Ongoing and Completed Chemical Risk Evaluations under TSCA, Preliminary Information on Manufacturing, Processing, Distribution, Use, and Disposal, TOXICOLOGICAL REVIEW OF 1,4-DIOXANE, 15th Report on Carcinogens, 1,4-Dioxane, Determination of residual 1,4-dioxane in surfactants and cleaning agents using headspace single-drop microextraction followed by gas chromatography–flame ionization detection, 1,4-Dioxane in Cosmetics: A Manufacturing Byproduct, An integrated assessment of the 1,4-dioxane cancer mode of action and threshold response in rodents, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: 1,4-DIOXANE, Product Profile: Hand Sanitizer, Occurrence of 1,4-dioxane in cosmetic raw materials and finished cosmetic products, Chemical Profile: 1,4-dioxane
Chloroxylenol is a widely used disinfectant in homes and hospitals. It is also used as a preservative in liquid soaps. However, there are reports of individuals, specifically housekeepers, developing allergic contact dermatitis as a result of exposure to this chemical.
Testicular Toxicity of Chloroxylenol in Rats: Biochemical, Pathological and Flow Cytometric Study, Human health risk assessment of chloroxylenol in liquid hand soap and dishwashing soap used by consumers and health-care professionals, Chemical Profile: Chloroxylenol, Antimicrobial agents, triclosan, chloroxylenol, methylisothiazolinone and borax, used in cleaning had genotoxic and histopathologic effects on rainbow trout, Removal of Chloroxylenol Disinfectant by an Activated Sludge Microbial Community, Chloroxylenol at environmental concentrations can promote conjugative transfer of antibiotic resistance genes by multiple mechanisms, Impact of benzalkonium chloride, benzethonium chloride and chloroxylenol on bacterial antimicrobial resistance, Human exposure and health risk assessment of an increasingly used antibacterial alternative in personal care products: Chloroxylenol, RED FACTS: Chloroxylenol