Hand hygiene is one of the most important parts of infection control in care homes. It protects residents, staff, and visitors while helping managers meet high hygiene standards. Yet when it comes to choosing the right sanitiser, many homes face a common question: sanitiser gel vs sanitiser foam — which is better?

Both are widely available, and both are effective at killing germs. However, each comes with its own advantages and challenges. In this article, we’ll compare sanitiser gel vs sanitiser foam and explore which might work best in different care home settings.

Why Hand Hygiene Matters in Care Homes

Care homes bring people together in close communal spaces. While this creates a warm and social atmosphere, it also increases the risk of germs spreading. Touchpoints such as door handles, dining tables, and handrails are used constantly throughout the day.

Good hand hygiene prevents infections, supports resident wellbeing, and creates a safer working environment for staff. It’s also a key part of meeting Care Quality Commission (CQC) standards. Choosing the right sanitiser can make hand hygiene easier, more comfortable, and more effective for everyone.

Sanitiser Gel – Pros and Cons

Sanitiser gel is the most familiar option and is used in care homes, hospitals, and workplaces across the UK.

Pros of Sanitiser Gel:

  • Quick and convenient: Easy to use without water, dries quickly.

  • Widely available: Fits a variety of dispensers and bottles.

  • Proven effectiveness: Trusted for infection control.

  • Portable: Small bottles are easy for staff to carry on the go.

Cons of Sanitiser Gel:

  • Can feel sticky: Overuse may leave a residue on hands.

  • Drying on skin: Frequent use can irritate sensitive skin.

  • Resident comfort: Some people dislike the texture.

You can browse our full range of sanitiser gels and foams here.

Sanitiser Foam – Pros and Cons

Sanitiser foam is becoming increasingly popular in care settings. It delivers the same germ-killing power but in a lighter, foam-based form.

Pros of Sanitiser Foam:

  • Gentle on skin: Feels softer and less drying than gel.

  • Even coverage: Spreads easily across hands.

  • Resident-friendly: Many people prefer the feel of foam.

  • Less sticky: Leaves little or no residue.

Cons of Sanitiser Foam:

  • Requires dispensers: Works best in mounted or pump systems.

  • Less portable: Not as easy to carry in small bottles.

  • Feels lighter: Some users feel it is less “substantial” than gel.

Explore our sanitiser gels and foams to see the options available for your care home.

Sanitiser Gel vs Sanitiser Foam: Which is Better for Care Homes?

When comparing sanitiser gel vs sanitiser foam, there isn’t one single winner. Both are effective against germs, but the best choice depends on where and how you plan to use them.

  • Communal lounges and dining areas: Foam can encourage frequent use thanks to its soft feel and resident-friendly application.

  • Staff stations and busy care environments: Gel is often quicker, more portable, and familiar to healthcare staff.

  • Bathrooms and high-traffic areas: A combination of both may work best, with foam for comfort and gel for practicality.

The most important factor is ensuring staff and residents actually use the sanitiser provided. By choosing the format that people feel comfortable with, you can improve compliance and reduce the spread of infections.

Tips for Improving Hand Hygiene in Care Homes

Whichever option you choose, good practice makes all the difference. Here are some tips to get the best results from your sanitiser system:

  • Place dispensers strategically: Position them at entrances, corridors, dining rooms, and lounges.

  • Train staff and residents: Regular reminders encourage correct and consistent use.

  • Keep supplies stocked: Empty dispensers or missing bottles reduce compliance.

  • Support with cleaning routines: Pair hand hygiene with thorough surface cleaning to minimise risks.

These steps make it easier for everyone in the home to protect themselves and others.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to sanitiser gel vs sanitiser foam, both options can play an important role in care homes. Gel offers quick and proven protection, while foam provides a gentler, more resident-friendly experience. The best solution often involves using both in the right places across your care setting.

Ready to make the right choice for your care home? Explore our sanitiser gels and foams to find the best fit. Or, for tailored advice and support, why not book a free hygiene consultation? Our team will help you create the most effective hand hygiene strategy for your environment.