How To Make DIY Reusable Disinfecting Wipes
Every day, over 3,000 tons of paper towel waste is produced in the US alone. This is an astounding statistic and one that we have the power to change NOW! These easy-peasy DIY Reusable Disinfecting Wipes are the perfect way to reduce waste and save you some money too.
I want you to ditch paper towels and disposable wipes once and for all. Paper towels are made from virgin fibers that normally come from unmanaged forests, where habitats are being ruined and pollution is high.
Disposable wipes are NOT disposable, no matter what the label says. You should never toss these in the toilet. This is one of the WORST greenwashing offenders and it drives me crazy!
Greenpeace Canada says it perfectly, "Healthy forests sustain life. More than 80 percent of the world’s forests are degraded or destroyed. Many species face extinction and the livelihoods of forest-based communities are under threat. Our choices at the counter can help save our forests!"
Crafting a zero waste life comes first with the understanding of what is zero waste? And how can you apply the guiding principles to your own life, so you will be well on your way?
To make these wipes you can use old dishcloths, t-shirts, and even cotton socks. I've used old, small cloth napkins.
How to make DIY Disinfectant Wipes?
Ingredients
- 1 cup Water
- 1-2 tsp Hand or dish soap
- ¼ cup isopropyl alcohol
- 15 drops of Essential Oils
Instructions
- Mix the solution in a large mason jar, add the clothes, and let them soak up the solution.
- When you use them, Squeeze out any excess and use as you please.
- If you don't use them all you can roll them up and store them in the jar.
- If you have liquid leftover, you can store it in a separate jar. When you are done, simply toss the soiled clothes into the laundry.
Recipe Notes
For essential oils, you can use tea-tree or lavender, or lemon. A combination of the Three. These will last you 2 weeks, but keep in mind it does depend on usage. If you are a clean freak like me, you may go through them a little faster. Store in a cool, dark place.
Just whip up a batch, store it under your sink, and grab it when needed.
Not only are you reducing your toxic exposure (no thank you Clorox wipes!) you're also helping to reduce waste. You can use these on everything. Sinks, faucets, doorknobs, countertops, microwaves, and even in the bathroom.
And if you are heading out with your kids, toss a few in a small reusable bag and keep them on hand for little hands and little messes!
If you really want to make an impact on reducing your waste then ditching paper towels is a GREAT place to start. DIYs can seem daunting at first, but I really hope you'll give it a try. These wipes are easy to make, easy to use, and will save you money for sure. I love a good DIY and if you are looking for a DIY recipe for an amazing hand sanitizer, I've got you! Best, part, this one actually works.
I'd love to know how you reduce waste and save money, share it in the comments below.
Kim
says:I LOVE this recipe and have been using it for over a year now. I even have my Mom using it as well. I cut up old face cloths that my daughter is done with and they work beautifully. I’ve had a hard time finding something that works on my quartz countertops but not anymore. These work amazing!!
Candice Batista
says:Great to hear Kim. It’s one of out favs too!
Charmayne Wilshire
says:What kinds of and soap are more Eco conscious? Most liquid soaps gone from places like China that don’t have the same standards as we do in Canada.
Candice Batista
says:Hi Charmaine, take a look at Attitude Home, Aspen Clean, Nellies Naturals, Bio Vert and Seventh Generation.
best,
Candice
Sheri Dicks
says:LOVE this! I am always trying to reduce waste and will try this soon!
I have recently started to make eco bricks and love how that reduces plastic,
I am looking to buy reusable container covers as well.
Thank you
Candice
says:That sounds great Sheri, thanks so much for letting me know.
warmly,
Candice