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Hand sanitizer is something many people keep within reach, whether at home, in the car, or in a bag. While it’s mainly used to clean hands, alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be useful in other everyday situations as well.

Because it contains a high percentage of alcohol, hand sanitizer can help break down oils, dissolve residue, and reduce bacteria on certain surfaces. When used carefully and in small amounts, it can serve as a convenient solution for minor household and personal tasks. Here are several practical ways to use hand sanitizer beyond just cleaning your hands.

Clean Your Smartphone Screen

Phones collect fingerprints, smudges, and bacteria throughout the day. Applying a small amount of hand sanitizer to a microfiber cloth and gently wiping the screen can help remove buildup. Avoid getting moisture into phone openings, and use sparingly.

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Remove Permanent Marker Stains

Permanent marker ink can be difficult to remove from hard surfaces. A small amount of hand sanitizer applied to a cloth can help loosen the ink so it can be wiped away. Always test on a hidden spot first to avoid damage.

Freshen Up Clothes

If clothing has light odors and you don’t have time to wash it, hand sanitizer can help temporarily reduce odor-causing bacteria. Apply a small amount to a clean cloth, then dab the area lightly and allow it to air dry.

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Clean Makeup Brushes

Makeup brushes collect oil, product, and bacteria. Between deep cleanings, a small amount of hand sanitizer on a tissue or cotton pad can help disinfect brushes quickly. Let brushes dry fully before reuse.

Remove Sticky Residue

Price tags and labels often leave adhesive behind. Hand sanitizer can help break down the residue. Apply a small amount, let it sit briefly, and wipe clean with a cloth.

Clean Eyeglasses

Smudges and fingerprints are common on glasses. A small drop of hand sanitizer on a lint-free cloth can help clean lenses, but it should be used occasionally and not as a long-term substitute for lens cleaner.

Refresh Shoes

Odors inside shoes are often caused by bacteria. Wiping the inside with a lightly dampened cloth lightly dampened with hand sanitizer can help reduce odors. Let shoes air dry completely.

Disinfect Small Surfaces

When wipes or sprays aren’t available, hand sanitizer can be used to clean frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs and light switches. Apply it to a cloth rather than directly to surfaces.

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Remove Ink Stains

Ink stains on fabric can sometimes be treated with hand sanitizer. Apply a small amount to the stain, allow it to sit briefly, and blot gently. This works best on fresh stains and should be tested first.

Clean Jewelry

antique jewelry — Image Credit: Deposit Photos

Hand sanitizer can help remove oils and grime from jewelry. Apply a small amount to a cloth and gently wipe metal or stone pieces, avoiding porous materials.

Remove Label Adhesive from Containers

Glass jars and bottles often have stubborn adhesive residue. Hand sanitizer can soften the glue, making it easier to remove with a cloth or sponge.

DIY Room Freshener

Diluted scented hand sanitizer can be used as a quick room spray. Use lightly, and avoid spraying directly on surfaces.

Remove Nail Polish in a Pinch

Alcohol-based hand sanitizer can help remove nail polish when remover isn’t available. Apply to a cotton pad, rub gently, and repeat if needed. Follow up with moisturizer, as alcohol can be drying.

Clean Hair Tool Buildup

Hair products can leave residue on curling irons and flat irons. When tools are unplugged and cool, wipe them with a lightly dampened cloth to remove buildup.

Emergency Fire Starter

In outdoor or emergency situations, alcohol-based hand sanitizer can be used as a fire starter due to its flammability. Use only with extreme caution and follow proper safety practices.