On average, hand sanitizers contain 70 percent ethanol or isopropanol alcohol, and are thickened to the consistency of a gel. Fragrance and sometimes a coloring agent are added. Hand sanitizer almost instantly kills most---about 99.9 percent---bacteria. Hand sanitizer products are sold as liquids, gels and foams.
Alternative to Soap and Water
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends using soap and water to clean your hands. If both soap and water are not readily available, the CDC suggests using hand sanitizer.
Reduce the Spread of Infection
Hand sanitizers can reduce your chances of catching the common cold, spreading your cold to others and even protect you from contagious viruses like H1N1. The CDC issued a report in February 2010 indicating that hand sanitizer can protect against the flu's germs.
Protect Others
By using hand disinfectant before you prepare food, attend to a wound or give someone medication, you're preventing any germs you may be carrying from transferring to another person.
Protect Yourself
You should especially use hand sanitizer after you use the bathroom, use gym equipment, or handle pets, their toys and pet accessories. You can easily transfer germs from these items after rubbing your eyes or touching an item that you put in or near your mouth.
Disinfect
Wipe down communal items before using them. Use sanitizer on a phone at work, your car door handle or any door handle around your home. You should also wipe down light switches and other items touched by dozens of hands all day long.
Remove Permanent Marker
Hand sanitizer can remove permanent marker from white boards, sneakers and smooth walls. It can also damage leather, paint and other porous surfaces if you use too much or rub too hard. So try it on a hidden portion of the surface first.
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