With the novel coronavirus outbreak showing no signs of slowing down, germ-busting products like hand sanitisers, wet wipes and antibacterial soaps have become precious commodities in Singapore. However, good luck if you’re trying to get your hands on them in supermarkets and pharmacies, as these items are practically sold out everywhere.
But first, what’s the best way to protect yourself against the Wuhan virus?
Well the best prevention against the novel coronavirus, which originated in Wuhan in China, actually lies in a hygiene habit that we’ve been taught since young – washing our hands with soap and water.
Experts, such as Dr Kalisvar Marimuthu, senior infectious disease consultant at the National Centre for Infectious Diseases, have said that good ol’ soap and water reduces the amount of all kinds of germs on our hands.
Incidentally, as a first line of defence, we should really avoid touching our face – eyes, nose and mouth included – unnecessarily.

Now, if you don’t have easy access to washing facilities, or to soap and water, then hand sanitisers with at least 60 per cent alcohol content can do the trick too. For those who prefer sanitisers without alcohol, there are several on the market which manufacturers claim can kill up to 99.9 per cent of germs. How true that is, we aren’t able to tell. But hey, as long as these hand sanitisers help eradicate some degree of germs, we’re all for it.
For the product to be effective, you must use enough to cover your hands. Rub it properly all over your hands and fingers for 20 seconds. Let it dry naturally – don’t wipe!
Here are some hand sanitisers that are still in stock (or restocking soon!).
This alcohol-free formula contains eight natural essential oils that have antibacterial properties, such as organic moringa oil from Cambodia, tea tree essential oil from Australia and lavender maillette essential oil from France. It also doubles up as insect repellent and protects against harmful UV rays. Plus, it can be used all over your body! Available at Twinkle.
This natural foam-based formula from Australia, which also doesn’t contain alcohol, claims to kill 99.9 per cent of germs and bacteria, and is infused with wild berry essential oils for added moisture. It’s safe for little ones too. Available at Eamart.
This alcohol-based hand sanitiser contains a protective and fragrant blend of tea tree, sweet orange, lavendar, eucalyptus, thyme, oregano and chamomile essential oils. While the individual bottle is out of stock at the moment, you can get the bundle comprising two Anti-Flu Essential Oils and one 100ml hand sanitiser, but at a heftier price of $71. Available at Nila Singapore.
This gentle formula comprises an antibacterial herbal blend of cucumber extract and lemongrass that refreshes and cleans without drying out your hands. It’s suitable for oily skin too. Available at all Hysses stores, and the brand says they re-stock on a daily and twice-a-week basis.
This potent formula comprises 70 per cent pharmaceutical grade disinfecting alcohol to banish bacteria, and contains a blend of rosemary, mandarin peel, eucalyptus and lavender essential oils to lift your mood and keep hands moisturised. They’ve even reduced the price to $3, only for direct purchase and collection from the shop.
Available at Leonica K at 390 Orchard Road, Palais Renaissance #03-08, Singapore 238871.
This natural, dermatologist-tested formula is safe for both adults and children, and leaves your hands feeling refreshed with a fragrant blend of essential oils. It’s currently sold out, but the brand plans to restock between the second and third week of February. It will be available weekdays at the Young Living Experience Centre @ 111 Somerset Road, #05-18, TripleOne Somerset, Singapore 238164.
This hand sanitiser comes in a quick-drying mist form to help kill 99.9 per cent bacteria and other germs. It contains antiseptic, USP certified ethyl alcohol (64 per cent) that helps stem the spread of bacteria, while apple extract helps moisturise your hands too. Available online at Nature’s Glory.
Infused with peppermint, orange and tea tree essential oils, this convenient hand sanitiser contains 70 per cent alcohol, as well as aloe vera leaf juice to keep skin supple. The brand is replenishing stocks daily, so do give them a ring to check when new stocks come in. Available online.
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Text: Therese Tay/Shape & Elizabeth Liew