Hand sanitizer immediately became one of the most in-demand products to help stop the Coronavirus pandemic in 2020, leaving store shelves empty and a demand manufacturers could not meet. Although it is now simpler to get anti-germ medicine, demand is again on the rise due to the recent declaration of a public health emergency for monkeypox in the United States.

Monkeypox can spread from person to person via skin-to-skin contact, including “direct contact with monkeypox rash, scabs or body fluids from a person with monkeypox or touching objects, surfaces or clothing that have been used by someone with monkeypox,” as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Monkeypox is primarily spread through close, intimate contact.

So, what kind of defense should you use? The CDC strongly advises getting vaccinated, but another precaution is to wash your hands frequently for at least 20 seconds with soap and water. If that option is unavailable, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol.

The CDC’s recommendations for how to shop for hand sanitizers are detailed below, along with a list of hand sanitizers that meet their requirements for having at least 60% alcohol.

Top 5 Best CDC-Approved Hand Sanitizers

Unfortunately, hand sanitizers have a wide range of components, and the FDA can only force voluntary recalls of over-the-counter medications and hand sanitizers.

We gathered hand sanitizers that are not only CDC- and FDA-compliant but also contain ingredients like aloe vera and glycerin to help soothe and hydrate the skin to help you find some of the safest and most effective hand sanitizers on the market. We provided travel- and household-sized hand sanitizers for protection while on the go.

Best Overall Hand Sanitizer: Purell Advanced Hand Sanitizer

Our top pick for hand sanitizer is Purell, sometimes synonymous with “hand sanitizer” itself. The brand’s fans say they are confident in Purell’s quality and effectiveness since it is timeless, identifiable, and offered in every format, from bulk jugs to individually wrapped wipes. Because Purell’s numerous layers don’t become very sticky, people prefer it for regular use, such as when she enters and exits hospital rooms. As some say, even when hands are sanitized, they don’t feel clean if they are sticky. Since Purell is frequently the first-hand sanitizer they see in stores, a lot of people list this as their favored brand. 

On the other hand, Germ-X is a less expensive, no-frills alternative because of its less alcoholic-forward aroma, despite the fact that it is slightly stickier than Purell.

Noshinku Pocket Hand Sanitizer Refill Kit – Eucalyptus

These sleek, credit-card-sized sprays are the most practical option for pockets, small purses, and travel. It has six refillable botanical fragrances for adults: eucalyptus, lemon, vetiver, bergamot, lavendula, and spice. The addition of aloe vera, jojoba, rosa canina, argan oil, and coconut oil, which are formulated to protect, moisturize, and restore skin, can help combat winter dryness. It delivers the perfect quantity of delicate mist directly into your palm, not the air, despite the packaging’s unusual appearance. 

While many people may have previously believed that a travel size is a travel size, they found this hand sanitizer to be especially convenient on a recent trip, as it fit everywhere — from pockets to airplane seatbacks — for simple access. Actress Christine Chiu is also a fan, listing it as one of her “can’t-live-without” items and labeling it “the most effective hand sanitizer on the market because it’s small, has a chic design, and does the job.”

Touchland Power Mist – Mint, Citrus, Lemon Lime Hand Sanitizer

Touchland was described by many of its users as a commonplace, slightly fancier option. They refer to it as “high-tech sanitizing” because of its aesthetically appealing packaging and formula, which, in addition to 70 percent ethyl alcohol, includes aloe and glycerin for moisturization and hydration, as well as radish root for additional antimicrobial protection. People also appreciate the delightful aromas, which include mint, watermelon, and vanilla, and the fine mist texture. 

The mist, unlike gel hand sanitizers, does not leave a tacky residue or dry out her cuticles. And suppose you’re looking for a multitasking product. In that case, the “rejuvenating” Glow Mist contains two botanically derived anti-aging ingredients that the brand claims will stimulate collagen production and detoxify the complexion. Touchland does not offer refills because of the risk of cross-contamination.

Jao Brand Refresher Hand Sanitizer

Jao’s Refresher hand sanitizer, a darling of celebrities and many of its users has even made it into our Strat 100. According to the brand’s slogan, the mist can be used as an aftershave, deodorant, and makeup brush cleaner in addition to sanitizing. People adore this “no-frills classic” as a gym or beach purse, where such a versatile item is frequently required. In addition to 65 percent ethyl alcohol, it contains a blend of essential oils, including lavender, tea tree, eucalyptus, geranium, and sage, as well as chamomile and calendula, to prevent dehydration.

The Honest Company “Keepin’ It Clean” Alcohol Wipes Hand Sanitizer

These fragrance-free wipes from Jessica Alba’s mom- and baby-focused company, The Honest Company, are designed to be gentle and safe for individuals with sensitive skin, such as those with dermatitis. Aloe and glycerin, in particular, have a soothing effect on the epidermis. 

People appreciated the package’s secure plastic lock top, which prevented the wipes from drying out and made them simpler to remove individually. These minor details also make these wipes popular with parents of young children. Suppose you’re not looking for fragrance-free hand sanitizer. In that case, the wipes are also available in grapefruit and lavender fragrances, and the Honest Company offers its hand sanitizer in spray and gel formats with the same kid-friendly focus.