Hand sanitizer should not be used as a substitute for dish detergent or hand soap for cleaning dishes or hands. Hand sanitizer is designed for killing germs on hands when soap and water are not available, and it contains a high concentration of alcohol (usually around 60-70% alcohol content). Here's why you should not use hand sanitizer in place of dish detergent or hand soap:
Dish detergent vs. hand sanitizer: Dish detergents are specifically formulated to break down and remove grease, oil, and food residues from dishes. They contain surfactants that help lift and separate dirt from the surface, making them effective for cleaning dishes. Hand sanitizer, on the other hand, is not designed to cut through grease and food residues; its main purpose is to kill germs and bacteria on hands.
Toxicity concerns: Hand sanitizers often contain chemicals, including alcohol, that can be harmful if ingested. Using hand sanitizer to clean dishes means there's a risk of these chemicals coming into contact with your food, which could lead to health issues.
Residue on dishes: Hand sanitizer may leave a residue on dishes, especially when used in larger quantities. This residue is not meant to be ingested and could potentially contaminate your food.
Skin irritation: Using hand sanitizer on dishes can also lead to skin irritation for those who handle the dishes. Hand sanitizers are not designed to be gentle on the skin like dish soap or hand soap.
For cleaning dishes, it's essential to use an appropriate dish detergent that is formulated to cut through grease and remove food residues effectively. For washing hands, hand soap and water should be the primary choice whenever possible, as they are more effective in removing dirt, debris, and germs from the skin.
If you don't have access to soap and water for handwashing, hand sanitizer can be used as a temporary solution, but it's best to wash your hands with soap and water as soon as possible for a thorough and effective clean. For cleaning dishes, it's important to use proper dish detergent and rinse them thoroughly to ensure they are safe to use.