Make This DIY Antibacterial Surface Spray With Household Items

With all of the talk about the flu and coronavirus (COVID-19) in the news lately, the idea of sanitizing and disinfecting the surfaces that you touch has become increasingly important. Stores are quickly becoming wiped out of disinfecting products, but you can easily make your own antibacterial surface spray solution at home using a few ingredients. This cleaning solution kills germs and bacteria on surfaces and leaves behind a natural scent too! (Note: You might also want to make your own antibacterial hand wipes to keep in your car or at home.)

Ed. note: We want to be clear that this DIY is an alternative solution if you can't find the hardcore stuff. DIY surface and hand sanitizers should be used when soap and other cleaners (such as Chlorox and Lysol) are unavailable and should contain at least 60% alcohol, per the CDC.

Step 1

Add 1 cup of distilled water, 1 cup of isopropyl alcohol, and 10 to 20 drops of thyme or lavender essential oil to a clean spray bottle. The alcohol will kill 99.8% of germs and bacteria, and thyme and lavender essential oils have very strong antibacterial properties as well.

Step 2

Be sure to tightly close the spray bottle and label clearly. Since the mixture is clear, it can easily be confused with a water spray bottle.

1. Shake well before each use to mix all ingredients together.

2. Spray surfaces from at least 6 inches away using the mist setting of your spray bottle.

3. Allow to sit for one to two minutes.

4. Wipe clean with a clean cloth or paper towel. Never use the same cloth to wipe away separate surfaces to avoid cross contamination.

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Ana Stanciu for Hunker

DIY Hand Sanitizer

Stephen Paul for Hunker