Does Hand Sanitizer Stain Clothes?

Hand sanitizer may be a necessary tool in the world of hygiene, but does hand sanitizer stain clothes? No one wants to sport a bleach-like stain on their favorite outfit! 

In this article, I’ve compiled a list of fabrics that are the most susceptible to hand sanitizer damage and provide methods to remove hand sanitizer stains so that you can keep your wardrobe looking fresh and fabulous. 

What are Hand Sanitizers Made From?

It’s important to note that not all hand sanitizers are made using the same ingredients. When choosing a hand sanitizer, look for ones that are approved by regulatory agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Alcohol Based Hand Sanitizer

Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are typically made from a combination of ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, water, and other ingredients such as glycerin. The alcohol content in these sanitizers is usually between 60-95%, which helps kill bacteria on the hands (Source: Golin et al, 2020). 

Non-Alcohol Hand Sanitizer

Non-alcohol hand sanitizers often contain benzalkonium chloride (Source: Harrison et al, 2020). This active ingredient disrupts the cell membranes of bacteria and viruses, effectively killing them (Source: Bondurant et al, 2020).

Does Hand Sanitizer Stain?

Technically, hand sanitizer itself doesn’t cause stains, but the ingredients within them can cause a bleaching effect. Ironically, alcohol is often used for removing stains, but it can also have bleaching properties if misused. If the hand sanitizer contains a high concentration of alcohol, it can cause certain fabrics to discolor or bleach. This is more likely to happen with darker fabrics. 

Non-alcohol-based hand sanitizers often contain benzalkonium chloride, known for its bleaching properties, and can also kill aquatic life when it enters the water (Source: Penguin Health and Cay et al, 2010). Some hand sanitizers also include hydrogen peroxide, which is a bleaching agent. 

How to Get Hand Sanitizer Out of Clothes

Unfortunately, hand sanitizer can bleach dark fabrics unless you catch the stain quickly. If you’re facing an older, set-in sanitizer bleach stain, your chances of recovering the fabric might be low. 

To avoid permanent stains, apply hand sanitizer carefully and allow it to dry thoroughly before touching any fabrics. When a stain occurs, treating it as soon as possible is best. Below are two methods using common household ingredients that we at A Clean Bee love to use and may help you lift the stain. 

Related: Natural DIY Home Cleaning Supplies Kit 

*Editorial note: These methods may work but are not guaranteed. Always test the method on an inconspicuous area first. Please comment below if any of these methods have worked for you!

Method 1: Toothpaste 

You will need: 

• Plain white toothpaste 
• An old toothbrush or cleaning brush

Step 1: Apply the product

Apply a small amount of plain white toothpaste directly onto the stain. 

Step 2: Rub it in 

With your brush, rub the toothpaste into the stain in circular motions. The abrasiveness may help to lift the stain. 

Step 3: Wash and dry

Rinse off any toothpaste residue and allow the garment to air dry. Repeat steps 1 and 2 where necessary, or use an alternative method.

Method 2: Baking soda 

You will need:

• Baking soda
• Water
• An old toothbrush or cleaning brush

Step 1: Apply the product

Create a paste using water and baking soda. Apply a small amount of the paste directly onto the stain. 

Step 2: Rub it in 

With your brush, rub the paste into the stain in circular motions. The baking soda’s abrasiveness and stain-removing properties may help lift the stain. 

Step 3: Wash and dry

Rinse off the remaining paste and allow the garment to air dry. Repeat steps 1 and 2 where necessary, or use an alternative method.

Fabrics Most Affected by Hand Sanitizer

Certain fabrics are more susceptible to staining than others, particularly those sensitive to solvents. Another factor contributing to staining is how the hand sanitizer is applied. If the sanitizer is not allowed to dry fully before coming into contact with clothing, it can transfer onto the fabric and cause a stain.

If you’re wondering which fabrics are most affected by hand sanitizer, read on. 

Silk: 

Silk is a delicate fabric that hand sanitizers can easily damage. Some hand sanitizers can cause the fabric to discolor or become brittle, leading to permanent damage (Source: We Deliver Laundry).

Rayon: 

Rayon is sensitive to alcohol and other solvents. Some hand sanitizers can cause the fabric to discolor or weaken, leading to tears or holes in the fabric (Source: Gathering Thread).

Suede, leather, and wool: 

Natural materials such as suede, leather, and wool can be bleached or discolored by hand sanitizer. Some hand sanitizers can cause these materials to lose their color or become brittle, leading to cracking or other damage (Source: Gathering Thread and Shoegazing).

Dark-colored fabrics: 

Dark-colored fabrics, such as black or navy, are more likely to be stained by hand sanitizers. Some hand sanitizers can cause the fabric to fade or discolor, leading to a noticeable stain on the fabric (Source: We Deliver Laundry).

Conclusion

Hand sanitizer can potentially lead to unsightly stains on clothes, but the risk can be minimized by using it properly and being mindful of the ingredients in the product. Hand sanitizer kills certain bacteria and sometimes viruses, but it should only be used in the right situations. Washing your hands with soap and water is much more effective than hand sanitizers at removing a wider variety of bacteria and chemicals (Source: CDC).