Homemade Spicy Citrus Clean Hands Spray

A "clean hands spicy citrus spray" is a fun and fragrant way to freshen up your hands on the go - especially when soap and water aren’t available. It’s not meant to replace hand washing or hand sanitizer, but it’s perfect for a quick refresh after touching shopping carts, gas pumps, or anything a bit questionable.

Years ago, I found a store-bought clean hands spray that I loved using after grocery shopping, flea markets, antique shops - you name it. It wasn’t a hand sanitizer, but it helped remove that gritty, not-so-clean feeling before applying sanitizer. I wanted something similar, so I came up with this DIY version that’s just as effective and smells amazing!

This is a small-batch recipe using just a handful of ingredients and a few powerhouse essential oils. It’s simple enough to whip up on a Sunday afternoon and makes a great little gift or stocking stuffer, too.

Here's how you make a simple homemade clean hands spray:

Clean Hands Spicy Citrus Spray Recipe

This recipe makes about 2 ounces. I use a small glass measuring cup to mix all ingredients in before pouring in a spray bottle.

• 1/4 cup water (filtered from the refrigerator)
• 1 tablespoon Witch Hazel
• 1/4 teaspoon Vegetable Glycerin
• 14 drops Clove Essential Oil
• 8 drops Sweet Orange Essential Oil
• 8 drops Cassia Cinnamon Essential Oil
• 4 drops Rosemary Essential Oil

Directions

1. Start by adding the water to a small glass measuring cup.
2. Add witch hazel, vegetable glycerin, and essential oils.
3. Stir well with a glass stirrer or stainless-steel spoon to combine.
4. Pour the mixture into a clean 2 oz spray bottle and label it.

How to Use the Spray to Clean Hands

Shake well before each use. Spray a few spritzes into your palm, rub hands together thoroughly - front, back, and between fingers - then let air dry. You can use hand sanitizer afterward if desired, especially during flu season or when traveling.

Remember, this is not a substitute for hand washing, you should still wash your hands thoroughly when you get home.

A Few Extra Tips

• Storage: Keep your bottle in a cool, dark place, especially if you’re using a clear spray bottle.
• Bottle Tip: If you’re gifting this, amber glass spray bottles with a little twine or ribbon make it feel extra special.
• Essential Oil Swap Ideas: Try lemon instead of orange for a brighter scent, or add a drop of tea tree for extra cleansing support.

This little spray is one of my go-to blends for on-the-go freshness. It’s spicy, citrusy, and just the right amount of comfort in a bottle.

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