Do Hand Sanitisers Expire?

Date Posted:13 October 2021 

Hand sanitizers are widely used as a go-to solution for combating pathogens like the COVID-19 virus. But how long do these products remain effective, and does their efficacy fade after the expiration date? Let’s dive into the details.

 

Yes, they do. 

Hand sanitizers come with an expiration date, which indicates the period during which the product is expected to maintain its effectiveness. While sanitizers nearing their expiration date might still provide some level of protection, they are typically less potent than fresh ones.

The expiration date serves as a guideline for determining the stability and effectiveness of the product. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), sanitizers with a shelf life of at least two years are recommended. However, this timeframe can vary depending on storage conditions and the type of alcohol used in the sanitizer.

Why Do Hand Sanitisers Expire? 

Hand sanitizers are primarily categorized into two groups: alcohol-based and non-alcohol-based. Alcohol-based sanitizers typically contain either ethanol or isopropyl alcohol as their primary active ingredient. Non-alcohol-based sanitizers usually rely on antimicrobial agents such as benzalkonium chloride. Both types also include water and humectants like glycerol to prevent skin dryness.

Exposure to air causes alcohol to evaporate, even when the container isn’t completely airtight. Once opened, some degree of alcohol evaporation occurs, leading to a gradual decline in the alcohol concentration within the sanitizer over time. This reduction diminishes the product’s ability to kill bacteria and viruses effectively.

Is Expired Hand Sanitiser Safe?

The effectiveness of an expired hand sanitizer largely depends on how much alcohol has evaporated. If the alcohol concentration drops below 60%, the product may struggle to neutralize certain pathogens, though it could still be effective against others.

Although expired hand sanitizers may not be as potent, they are generally still safe to use. However, relying solely on them for protection might not be ideal.

Using Hand Sanitisers Effectively Against COVID-19

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), alcohol-based hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol are recommended for fighting the COVID-19 virus.

To maximize the benefits of hand sanitizers, follow these steps:

1. Before use, check the expiration date on the bottle.
2. Apply a generous amount of sanitizer to one hand.
3. Rub your hands together thoroughly to spread the sanitizer across all surfaces of your hands and fingers.
4. Allow the sanitizer to dry naturally without wiping it off.

Hand sanitizers should only be used externally. Ingesting them can lead to severe health issues, especially in children.

Handwashing vs Hand Sanitisers

The CDC recommends washing your hands with soap and water whenever possible, as this method is more effective at eliminating a wider range of pathogens, including the COVID-19 virus, compared to hand sanitizers.

However, if soap and water are unavailable, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used to reduce the number of microorganisms on your hands.

Summary

While washing with soap and water is the preferred method for cleaning hands, alcohol-based hand sanitizers serve as a convenient alternative when soap and water aren’t available. These sanitizers are typically divided into alcohol-based and non-alcohol-based types, with the CDC recommending those containing at least 60% alcohol.

Alcohol is a volatile substance that evaporates rapidly when exposed to air. Consequently, alcohol-based hand sanitizers may lose their effectiveness over time as alcohol evaporates. Opt for products with a minimum shelf life of two years and consider replacing any expired sanitizers to ensure optimal performance.

 

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