DIY Homemade Baby Wipes: A Simple, Eco-Friendly Solution for Parents
When you're a parent, there's no shortage of products you need to buy—diapers, lotions, clothes, baby food—and it can feel like the list is never-ending. But one item that’s easy to make at home and can save you money is baby wipes. Store-bought baby wipes are convenient, but they often contain harsh chemicals, preservatives, and synthetic fragrances. If you’re looking for a more natural, eco-friendly alternative, homemade baby wipes are a fantastic option. As a mom of 4 with baby 5 on the way, I can attest this is one of the easiest most value-added swaps you can make.
In this blog post, we’ll show you how to make your own baby wipes, giving you a cost-effective and customizable way to keep your little one clean. Plus, you’ll know exactly what’s in them—no mystery chemicals involved!
Why Make Your Own Baby Wipes?
There are several reasons why making homemade baby wipes might be a good choice for you and your baby:
1. Gentler on Sensitive Skin: Many commercial wipes contain alcohol, parabens, or artificial fragrances, which can irritate delicate skin. By using natural ingredients, you can avoid these chemicals and create a wipe that’s gentle and soothing for your baby’s skin. This has been game changing for my youngest that has sensitive skin and chronic rashes covering 90% of her body.
3. Cost-Effective: Store-bought wipes can add up quickly, especially if you have a newborn who goes through them constantly. Homemade baby wipes are a much cheaper option in the long run. I bought an entire box of medline dry 100% cotton sheets for a fraction of the cost of store bought baby wipes.
4. Customizable: You can adjust the recipe to suit your baby’s skin needs—whether that’s by adding soothing ingredients like aloe vera or making wipes that are completely fragrance-free. I opt for the fragrance free option due to my baby’s sensitivity issues, but essential oils would be wonderful.
What You’ll Need to Make Homemade Baby Wipes
Making baby wipes is surprisingly easy and only requires a few ingredients that you may already have at home. Here's what you'll need:
Supplies:
- Large Primary Container: A plastic container or an old baby wipe container works well to store the wipes.
-Portable Containers: I LOVE having these available for diapers bags, eating areas, etc.
- Water: Preferably filtered or distilled water to ensure it’s free from any chemicals.
- Castile Soap: This gentle, plant-based soap is mild and perfect for baby’s skin. It’s available in most health food stores.
- Fractionated Coconut Oil: These oils help to moisturize the skin and make the wipes soft and soothing.
- Aloe Vera Gel (Optional): Great for calming irritated skin and adding moisture.
- Essential Oils (Optional): If you want to add fragrance, choose a gentle essential oil like lavender or chamomile. Be sure to use it sparingly, as babies have sensitive skin.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Baby Wipes
1. Prepare the Solution: In a pyrex measuring cup, mix:
- 2 cups of warm water
- 1 tablespoon of Castile soap
- 2 tablespoons of coconut oil or olive oil
- 1 tablespoon of aloe vera gel (optional)
- 2-3 drops of essential oil (optional)
3. Soak the Cloth Wipes: Place the cloth wipes in your container, then pour the solution over them. You want the wipes to be damp, not soaking wet.
4. Store and Use: Once your cloth wipes are soaked in the solution, they’re ready to go! You can store them in a lidded container or even a wipe warmer, which can help keep them at a comfortable temperature.
Pro Tip: I often have a little bit extra of my wipe solution. I store it in old, washed baby food jars for easy access for touch-ups and portable wipe pack restocks.
Making your own baby wipes is an easy, inexpensive, and eco-friendly option for parents who want to ensure their little ones are cleaned with natural ingredients. With a simple recipe, a few basic supplies, and a bit of time, you can create a batch of wipes that are gentle, moisturizing, and chemical-free. Plus, you can customize the wipes with ingredients that suit your baby’s skin and your family’s preferences.
I gave it a try and now I wonder why I didn’t start it sooner!