How long does hand sanitizer last?
Alcohol-based hand sanitizer typically lasts about 2–3 years; after its expiration date the alcohol may have evaporated below an effective level.
| Hand Sanitizer | |
|---|---|
| Unopened | About 2–3 years (expiration date on the label) |
| Opened | Until the printed date, kept capped |
| Ideal storage | Room temperature, capped, away from heat and flames. |
Storage tips
- Sanitizer does not replace soap and water on visibly dirty hands.
Signs it has gone bad
- Tablets that are discolored, crumbling, sticky or smell unusual (aspirin that smells of vinegar)
- Torn or damp sterile packaging on dressings and gauze
- Brittle elastic, cracked rubber or adhesive that no longer sticks
- Any liquid medicine that has changed color or become cloudy