ETG Test & Mouthwash | Alcohol Exposure Explained

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Can Mouthwash or Hand Sanitizer Affect an ETG Test?

ETG Tests & Alcohol Products

Many people are surprised to learn that everyday products like mouthwash, hand sanitizer, or even some medicines can sometimes affect an ETG (Ethyl Glucuronide) test. Because ETG tests are highly sensitive, even small amounts of alcohol exposure may show up. Let’s explore how this works and what you should know.

Can Mouthwash Cause a Positive ETG Test?

Yes, it is possible.

  • Many mouthwashes contain 20% or more alcohol.
  • If used in large amounts or swallowed accidentally, it can temporarily raise ETG levels in urine.
  • However, using mouthwash normally (rinsing and spitting) is less likely to cause a positive test unless the ETG test is taken soon after use.

Tip: If you are preparing for an ETG test, use alcohol-free mouthwash to avoid any risk.

Can Hand Sanitizer Cause a Positive ETG Test?

  • Hand sanitizers often contain 60–70% alcohol.
  • Frequent use may cause tiny amounts of alcohol absorption through the skin or inhalation.
  • This is usually not enough to fail a test, but in rare cases, very frequent use can lead to a positive ETG result.

Everyday Products That May Affect ETG Tests

  • Cough syrups and cold medicine (contain alcohol)
  • Certain foods (like rum cakes, sauces cooked with wine)
  • Personal care products (like perfumes, aftershaves with alcohol)

How to Avoid False Positives in ETG Tests

Always check product labels for alcohol.
Switch to alcohol-free mouthwash & sanitizer.
Avoid eating or using products with alcohol before your test.
If you must use such products (like medicine), inform your doctor or the test administrator.

Final Thoughts on ETG False Positives

While mouthwash and hand sanitizer alone rarely cause a failed ETG test, frequent or heavy use may increase the risk of a false positive. To be safe, avoid alcohol-based products before your test and choose alcohol-free alternatives.

Want to know how long alcohol stays in your system? Try our ETG Calculator Tool to get an estimate based on your drinking habits.

Yes, some mouthwashes contain up to 20–25% alcohol. If used in large amounts shortly before the test, it may cause a false positive.

Frequent use of alcohol-based hand sanitizers can sometimes lead to minimal ETG detection, but it usually requires very heavy and repeated exposure.

Use alcohol-free mouthwash and avoid excessive use of sanitizers before testing. Always check product labels.

Yes, ETG tests are highly sensitive and can pick up even small amounts of alcohol from products like mouthwash, medicines, or sanitizers.

Avoid alcohol in all forms including hidden sources like hygiene products—at least 2–3 days before the test.

For more information, visit the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA).

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