Hand sanitisers have become a part of daily life for many people in Singapore, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. We carry them in our bags, place them at our entrances, and use them before eating or after touching public surfaces. But have you ever wondered — can hand sanitisers expire? And if they do, what should you do about it?
In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about hand sanitiser expiry, how to check if it’s still effective, and how to store it properly.
Do Hand Sanitisers Have an Expiry Date?
Yes, hand sanitisers do expire. Most hand sanitisers come with an expiry date printed on the bottle. This date is usually 2 to 3 years from the manufacturing date.
In Singapore, manufacturers are required to list the expiry date or manufacturing date on the label. This helps you know how long the product will stay effective.
What Happens When Hand Sanitisers Expire?
The main ingredient in hand sanitiser is alcohol — usually ethyl alcohol or isopropyl alcohol. Alcohol is what kills germs and viruses. Over time, the alcohol in hand sanitiser can slowly evaporate, especially if the bottle is not closed tightly or is exposed to heat.
Once the alcohol level drops below 60%, the hand sanitiser may not be strong enough to kill germs effectively. An expired hand sanitiser might still feel and smell the same, but it may not protect you as well.
How to Tell If Your Hand Sanitiser Is No Longer Effective
Here are some signs your hand sanitiser might not work well anymore:
It’s past the expiry date
It smells different than before
The texture has changed (for example, it feels watery or sticky)
The liquid has separated or looks cloudy
If you notice any of these, it’s better to stop using the sanitiser and get a new one.
Can You Still Use Expired Hand Sanitiser?
Using expired hand sanitiser is not dangerous, but it might not protect you from germs and viruses. In some cases, if you have no other option, using expired sanitiser is better than using nothing at all. However, if you want to stay safe and clean, it’s best to use a sanitiser that is still within its expiry date.
How to Store Hand Sanitiser Properly
To keep your hand sanitiser effective for as long as possible, follow these simple storage tips:
Keep it in a cool, dry place – avoid hot places like inside your car on a sunny day
Close the cap tightly after each use to prevent alcohol from evaporating
Avoid direct sunlight as UV rays can break down the ingredients
By storing your hand sanitiser properly, you can make sure it stays effective until the expiry date.
What Are the Best Alternatives to Hand Sanitiser?
Hand sanitiser is useful when you’re outside or don’t have access to a sink. But when you are at home, in school, or in the office, washing your hands with soap and water is still the best way to stay clean. Soap removes dirt, grease, and many types of germs that hand sanitisers may not.
Other disinfecting options include wipes with at least 60% alcohol, or antibacterial sprays, especially for cleaning surfaces like tables and doorknobs.
Conclusion
So, can hand sanitisers expire? Yes, they can. Expired hand sanitisers may not be as effective in killing germs. Always check the expiry date, look out for changes in smell or texture, and store your sanitiser properly. When in doubt, it’s safer to use soap and water.
Staying clean and healthy is simple — just remember to check your products regularly and use them the right way.