Did you know?

I know we have all been using hand sanitizer a lot lately. I always have one on my key chain, one in my purse, one in my camera bag, one in my truck, one in each bathroom (only for after blowing your nose), one in the laundry room and one in the kitchen. (Think that's too much? Nahhh!) I am constantly washing my hands, but I love always having sanitizer with me. Did you know this about sanitizer??

Alcohol-based hand sanitizers should contain at least 60 percent alcohol to be effective in killing germs, so make sure you read the label. While you're perusing the ingredients, also take note of inactive ingredients. Avoid alcohol-based hand sanitizers that include "fragrance" or "parfum" in the ingredients list. These are chemical fragrance compounds that could contain phthalates, and research has linked them to reproductive problems. Alcohol-based Purell hand sanitizers, for example—arguably the most popular brand out there—are effective at killing germs but contain questionable preservatives and other ingredients like fragrance, and even PEG, which is often contaminated with 1,4-dioxane, a suspected carcinogen. Also, always avoid any hand sanitizers or soaps containing triclosan: They don't kill off all the germs on your hands, and can contribute to the development of antibiotic-resistant superbugs.

Environmental Working Group's Skin Deep Cosmetic Safety Database ranks EO Hand Sanitizers and Wipes, found online or at Whole Foods, as among the safest. The products contain organic alcohol and a plant-based germ-killer; however, they are a bit pricey at nearly $10 for 8 ounces. (This is my VERY favorite hand sanitizer. The best part is, the organic lavender oil that makes it smell wonderful.)

Look for more natural hand sanitizers and sprays that contain witch hazel, alcohol, and naturally antibiotic essential oils, suggests green-living expert Annie B. Bond, of GreenChiCafe.com, author of the new eBook Natural Flu Protection. "Beware of synthetic varieties, and varieties that say 'antimicrobial,'" Bond warns.

And here's one alcohol-free option we like: CleanWell uses a proprietary, plant-based essential oil blend, mainly thyme oil, to kill more than 99 percent of germs without alcohol. You can find Cleanwell All-Natural Hand Sanitizers on Amazon.com, or in Target, Whole Foods, Babies "R" Us, and other stores.