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Hand Sanitizer Calculator

Mix WHO-formulation hand sanitizer at any volume — get exact amounts for each ingredient.

WHO Formula I: 80% ethanol + 1.45% glycerol + 0.125% H₂O₂ + water to volume

About the WHO Hand Sanitizer Formula

The World Health Organization publishes two hand rub formulations recommended for local production in pharmacies, hospitals and emergency settings. Both reach ≥99.99% reduction of common pathogens within 30 seconds. Formulation I uses ethanol; Formulation II uses isopropyl alcohol (2-propanol).

Ingredient Roles

  • Alcohol — the active antimicrobial agent (denatures proteins).
  • Glycerol 98% — humectant to protect skin from drying.
  • Hydrogen peroxide 3% — kills bacterial spores that might contaminate the bottling.
  • Distilled water — brings the mixture to final volume.

Quality Checks

Quarantine the finished product 72 hours before use to allow H₂O₂ to inactivate any contaminants. Test final alcohol concentration with a hydrometer or alcoholmeter; ethanol should be 75–85% v/v.