10 Unexpected Uses for Hand Sanitizer You Probably Haven't Heard Of

Simplify
by Simplify

Hand sanitizer – it's the unsung hero in our purses, pockets, and glove compartments. Known primarily for killing germs and aiding in maintaining good hygiene, hand sanitizer is a staple in our lives, especially in these times of heightened health awareness. But did you know this miracle gel has a surprising number of unexpected uses that go beyond keeping your hands clean? Prepare to be amazed by these ten lesser-known but handy uses of hand sanitizer.

Hand sanitizer: Here's what it's good for (except cleaning your hands!)

1. Removing Permanent Marker


Hand sanitizer can help remove those stubborn permanent marker lines. Just apply a small amount onto the marks, let it sit for a minute or so, then wipe off with a damp cloth. It may require a few applications, but your walls or furniture should return to their pre-Picasso glory.


2. Cleaning Your Glasses


Tired of your spectacles getting smeared and smudgy? A drop or two of hand sanitizer can do the trick. Apply it to the lenses and then wipe clean with a soft cloth. It effectively removes fingerprints, dirt, and grime, leaving your glasses clear and clean. Just avoid sanitizers with added colors or scents, as these might leave residues.

Hand sanitizer works great for cleaning glasses.

3. Polishing Silver


Hand sanitizer can also act as an impromptu silver polish. Dab a small amount on your silver jewelry, coins, or utensils, and rub vigorously with a cloth. The alcohol in the sanitizer helps to dissolve the tarnish, bringing back your silver's original luster.


4. Treating Insect Bites


In addition to its cleaning prowess, hand sanitizer has soothing properties that can help reduce itching and swelling caused by insect bites. Dab a small amount on the affected area, and the alcohol will help to soothe the irritation.

Ugh, who doesn't hate mosquito bites? Luckily, a drop of hand sanitizer can help soothe the itch in a pinch!

5. Cleaning Electronic Devices

From your smartphone screen to your keyboard, electronics are a magnet for dirt, dust, and germs. Using a small amount of hand sanitizer and a soft cloth, you can clean and disinfect these devices. Remember to avoid getting any sanitizer into charging ports or other openings.


6. Emergency Deodorant


In a pinch and forgot your deodorant? Hand sanitizer to the rescue! The alcohol in the sanitizer kills bacteria that cause body odor. It's a temporary solution, but it works in emergencies.

Forgot to apply deodorant in the morning? It happens... Next time it does, you can use hand sanitizer to quickly get rid of BO.

7. Removing Stains


From coffee to ink, hand sanitizer can help tackle tough stains. Apply a bit to the stain, let it sit for a few minutes, then gently rub and rinse with water. The alcohol in the sanitizer helps break down the stain. Always test on a small, unnoticeable area first, as it may affect some fabrics.


8. Cleaning Mirrors and Windows


A squirt of hand sanitizer can do wonders in making your mirrors and windows shine. Apply a small amount and clean with a lint-free cloth for a streak-free sparkle.

Use hand sanitizer on your mirror to get it clean and sparkly in no time!

9. Sanitizing Makeup Brushes

Dirty makeup brushes can harbor bacteria and dirt. In a pinch, hand sanitizer can be used to clean and disinfect them. Just squirt some on a tissue and gently rub the brushes, then let them air dry.


10. Removing Adhesive Residues

Sticker, tape, or glue residues can be tricky to remove. A dollop of hand sanitizer can help. Apply it onto the residue, let it sit for a few minutes, then rub off with a cloth.


Conclusion


It's always amazing how everyday items can serve such versatile purposes, isn't it? But remember, while hand sanitizer has these unexpected uses, it's essential to have it on hand for its primary use – keeping your hands clean and germ-free, even now.


Let us know how you make hand sanitizer work for you in the comments!

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  • Kelly Meyer Kelly Meyer on Jul 13, 2023

    My granddaughter spilt nail polish on the carpet and I goggled what takes it out and hand sanitizer came up. I used it and it took the polish right out. This gramma was a happy camper!

  • BonDiva BonDiva on Sep 07, 2023

    Hand sanitizer works really well for cleaning off your bags, backpacks, purses and sneakers. !

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