Which Type of Hand Sanitiser Is Better for NZ Workplaces: Alcohol-Based or Alcohol-Free?

In NZ workplaces, the decision between alcohol-based and alcohol-free hand sanitiser isn’t just about ingredients—it’s about where and how each type works best. Different industries face unique hygiene challenges, and matching the right sanitiser to the right setting can improve safety, comfort, and compliance. This guide explores use cases for each type across various workplace environments, highlighting benefits, drawbacks, and Insinc Products recommendations.

Alcohol-Based Hand Sanitiser – Best for High-Risk, High-Contact Environments

Alcohol-based sanitisers (60–95% ethanol or isopropyl alcohol) excel in industries where rapid, broad-spectrum germ-killing is essential.

Ideal Workplaces:

• Healthcare & Aged Care: High exposure to pathogens means instant virus and bacteria elimination is critical.

• Hospitality & Food Service: Frequent contact with shared surfaces and food prep areas demands strong hygiene measures.

• Transport Hubs & Public Venues: High foot traffic makes fast, effective germ control a necessity.

Pros

• Rapid germ kill, including viruses like COVID-19 and flu

• Recognised by health authorities worldwide

• Versatile for wall dispensers or portable bottles

Cons

• Can dry skin without moisturisers

• Flammable; requires safe storage

Insinc Products Recommendation: Our Alcohol Gel Hand Sanitiser with aloe vera offers high-strength protection while caring for skin. Available in desktop pumps, wall-mounted units, and bulk refills for busy sites.

Alcohol-Free Hand Sanitiser – Best for Frequent Use, Sensitive Skin, and Low-Risk Areas

Alcohol-free sanitisers (benzalkonium chloride or similar) are gentle, safe for children, and suitable where fire risk or skin sensitivity is a concern.

Ideal Workplaces:

• Offices & Corporate Spaces: Frequent desk use without drying skin.

• Childcare Centres & Schools: Safe for young children, non-flammable, and gentle.

• Retail & Customer Service: Suitable for high-frequency use in front-of-house areas.

Pros

• Gentle on skin, even with repeated use

• Non-flammable and safe in sensitive environments

• May provide residual antimicrobial protection

Cons

• Less proven against certain viruses

• Requires thorough application to be fully effective

Insinc Products Recommendation: Our Alcohol-Free Foaming Hand Sanitiser is fragrance-free, leaves no residue, and is ideal for continuous daily use in customer-facing and educational settings.

Workplace Recommendations – When to Use Each Type

• Healthcare, hospitality, transport hubs: Go alcohol-based for maximum protection.

• Office environments, retail counters, schools: Alcohol-free offers comfort and convenience.

• Hybrid workplaces: Combine both—alcohol-based at entrances, alcohol-free at desks and meeting rooms.

Conclusion

Different NZ workplaces have different hygiene priorities, and the right sanitiser choice depends on those needs. Alcohol-based options provide rapid, powerful protection in high-risk settings, while alcohol-free sanitisers offer comfort and safety for frequent use in lower-risk environments. Insinc Products can help you tailor a solution with the right mix of dispensers and sanitisers to protect your staff, clients, and visitors year-round.