Name: Homemade Disinfecting Wipes
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 2 cups high-proof alcohol (at least 140 proof / 70% alcohol); 6 tablespoons castile soap; 60 drops essential oils (optional); Towels, cloths, or old cotton t-shirts

Store-bought disinfecting wipes might be convenient, but many contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin, trigger allergies, and even affect your respiratory system. By making your own homemade disinfecting wipes, you can control what goes into them and keep your family safe from unnecessary toxins. These DIY wipes are simple, effective, and made with natural ingredients.

Why Make Your Own Disinfecting Wipes

Most commercial disinfecting wipes contain chemicals like formaldehyde, synthetic fragrances, chlorine, and quaternary ammonium compounds. These can:

Irritate skin and eyes
Trigger asthma and other respiratory issues
Disrupt hormones over long-term exposure
Leave behind harmful residues on surfaces

Homemade wipes give you a safer, eco-friendly alternative that’s just as effective when made with high-proof alcohol and optional essential oils.

Ingredients for Homemade Disinfecting Wipes

This recipe makes about 8 ounces:

2 cups high-proof alcohol (at least 140 proof / 70% alcohol)
6 tablespoons castile soap
60 drops essential oils (optional)
Towels, cloths, or old cotton t-shirts

Essential Oil Suggestions for Homemade Disinfecting Wipes

Essential oils offer natural antibacterial and antiviral properties, as well as a pleasant scent. Great options include:

Lemon
Tea tree
Orange
Rosemary
Lavender

Instructions

Add the alcohol to a glass jar or container.
If you’re using essential oils, add them next.
Pour in the castile soap and gently mix.
Layer your towels, cloths, or cotton t-shirts into the mixture until fully soaked.
If needed, add a little extra alcohol to ensure everything is covered.
Seal the jar tightly to prevent evaporation.
Printable Recipe Card

Helpful Tips

Use glass containers: Alcohol can degrade certain plastics over time.
Label your jar: Always mark your wipes as “Disinfecting Wipes” and keep them out of reach of children.
Avoid vinegar with alcohol: Combining vinegar with high-proof alcohol can reduce its disinfecting effectiveness.
Wash and reuse cloths: Instead of throwing them away, wash and reuse your wipes to save money and reduce waste.

Final Thoughts on Homemade Disinfecting Wipes

Homemade disinfecting wipes are a healthier, eco-friendly alternative to chemical-laden store-bought wipes. By using simple ingredients like alcohol, castile soap, and essential oils, you can keep your home clean without exposing your family to unnecessary toxins. Try our disinfectant spray for another healthier alternative.

Homemade Disinfecting Wipes

Yield: 4-6 Wipes

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Making your own disinfectant wipes is not only cost-effective but also eco-friendly. Instead of relying on disposable store-bought wipes, you can repurpose old cloth diapers, t-shirts, or other soft cotton fabrics to create durable, washable wipes. These homemade cloth wipes cut down on waste, save money, and let you control the ingredients—ensuring a safe, effective cleaner for your home. Plus, they’re easy to refresh: simply launder the fabric pieces and re-soak them in your disinfecting solution for continuous reuse.

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Ingredients

2 cups high-proof alcohol (at least 140 proof / 70% alcohol)
6 tablespoons castile soap
60 drops essential oils (optional)
Towels, cloths, or old cotton t-shirts

Instructions

Add the alcohol to a glass jar or container.
If you’re using essential oils, add them next.
Pour in the castile soap and gently mix.
Layer your towels, cloths, or cotton t-shirts into the mixture until fully soaked.
If needed, add a little extra alcohol to ensure everything is covered.
Seal the jar tightly to prevent evaporation.

Notes

Use glass containers: Alcohol can degrade certain plastics over time.
Label your jar: Always mark your wipes as “Disinfecting Wipes” and keep them out of reach of children.
Avoid vinegar with alcohol: Combining vinegar with high-proof alcohol can reduce its disinfecting effectiveness.
Wash and reuse cloths: Instead of throwing them away, wash and reuse your wipes to save money and reduce waste.