Can Waterless Hand Sanitizer Be Kept in the Car?
2 Answers
Waterless hand sanitizer should not be kept in the car. Although waterless hand sanitizer has excellent disinfecting and sterilizing effects, storing it in a vehicle is unsafe because commercially available waterless hand sanitizers contain alcohol, typically at a concentration of 75%. Alcohol at 75% concentration is classified as a flammable and explosive substance. Gas station precautions: 1. No smoking: Open flames are strictly prohibited, as this is a common warning seen at gas stations. This is because the concentration of gasoline in the air increases during refueling, and any open flame could potentially ignite the gasoline. 2. Turn off the engine while refueling: Most car owners are aware that the engine should be turned off during refueling. Gas station attendants will also remind drivers to turn off their vehicles when they pull into the station.
I drive frequently, and keeping hand sanitizer in the car is quite practical, especially for long trips when you need to disinfect on the go. However, beware of high temperatures in summer, as the temperature inside the car can easily soar to 50-60 degrees Celsius. Hand sanitizer contains high concentrations of alcohol, which is prone to evaporation. The evaporated gas can accumulate, and if there's a lighter or other ignition source, it could potentially cause a fire. Last summer, I personally experienced the bottle expanding and leaking, filling the car with an alcohol smell. If not handled promptly, it could have led to an accident. It's fine for short-term storage, but avoid placing it on the dashboard or in the trunk where it's exposed to direct sunlight. It's best to store it in the glove compartment or a shaded corner. Regularly check the seal to ensure it's intact and keep it away from children to prevent accidental contact. Safety comes first—carrying portable wet wipes is also a safer alternative. Overall, while it offers great convenience, there are risks involved, so careful management of storage location and ambient temperature is necessary.
