Everything that has happened since 2020 has been somewhat of a plot twist, but here's a sub-twist that threw us for a loop recently – suddenly we're lusting after flannel face masks like we once did shoes, and coveting boutique, distillery-made hand sanitiser in the way we once did Korean skincare products. If we've got to use hand san, we might as well support local businesses while we're doing it – so we've rounded up some of our favourites. Looking for masks? We've got you(r face) covered.
Archie Rose, a Sydney-based gin-maker, was one of the first distilleries in the country to pivot towards creating high-alcohol grade sanitiser, infusing their 65 per cent mixture with its gin botanicals. Archie Rose's first release sold out in a matter of hours, but you can get yours online here. A 500ml bottle costs $20.
Further north, Manly Spirits Co also makes a gin-based sanitiser featuring native botanical goodness. Smaller quantities are currently sold out, but you can grab some hand san in bulk here (it'll set you back $65 for five litres, $200 for a 20 litre drum, or $75 for a pack of 10 12mL bottles).
Now, Orange's Parrot Distilling Co isn't exactly Sydney-based, but its gin-based sanitiser has gained a huge following in its hometown for its refreshing scent and aesthetically pleasing bottles – it's the kind you want to show off. Find yours here, a 200mL spray bottle is $16.
For an eco-friendly option, Koala Eco is owned by a Sydney-based husband and wife duo who are committed to minimising their impact on the environment – all their plant-based formulations are derived from Australian essential oils. Get your tea tree leaf-based sanny here. Spray bottles are $10.95 for 125mL, and 500mL pump bottles are $19.95.
Speaking of sanny, a boutique Australian brand actually called Sanny is making chic, pocket-sized tubes of sanitiser in multiple colours (like 'matte black', 'rosé' and 'blue steel') that'll go with any outfit – plus, the formulation is 80 per cent alcohol, and it dries in a flash. Get one 20ml spray bottle for $19.95, or grab a three-pack for $59.95 online.
Melbourne café and coffee roasters St Ali adapted early to the pandemic, creating its own hand sanitiser and even face masks. The hand sanny is made in partnership with HydroChem and is a 75 per cent alcohol product. It's made to the WHO specifications and comes in both gel and liquid formulas. Prices start at $19.95 for 500ml. Order here for delivery to Sydney in 5-8 business days.