Whether you are looking for a gentle, budget-friendly alternative for diaper changes or need a convenient way to keep your hands clean in the craft studio while working with clay, making your own wipes at home is surprisingly quick and simple.
Using your own diluted soap, a few soothing moisturizers, and a sturdy roll of paper towels, you can whip up a batch of soft, durable wipes in under 10 minutes.
Supplies & Ingredients (For 1/2 Roll)
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Paper Towels: 1 roll of heavy-duty paper towels (Viva brand works exceptionally well; avoid cheap brands so they don’t dissolve)
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Container: Rubbermaid #6 or #8 airtight container
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Water: 2 cups boiled or distilled water (cooled until warm)
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Aloe Vera: 1 tablespoon pure aloe vera (check ingredients for pure aloe to add extra moisture)
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Witch Hazel: 1 tablespoon pure witch hazel extract (for natural antibacterial properties)
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Liquid Soap: 2 tablespoons liquid soap (diluted grated handmade soap works wonderfully, or use a natural/organic baby wash)
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Coconut Oil: 2 tablespoons coconut oil (adds extra moisturizing power plus natural antibacterial and antifungal properties)
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Essential Oils (Optional): 6 drops spearmint and 6 drops lavender essential oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Prep the Roll: Cut the roll of paper towels straight in half using a sharp knife. Place one half cut-side down into your Rubbermaid container. (Save the other half for your next batch!)
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Mix the Solution: In a bowl or quart-sized jar, combine the warm water, aloe vera, witch hazel, liquid soap, and coconut oil. Stir well. Note: Keep the water warm enough to fully melt the coconut oil.
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Add Scents (Optional): Stir in your essential oils if using.
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Pour & Soak: Pour the warm mixture evenly over the paper towel half in your container. Let it absorb for 5 to 10 minutes.
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Flip & Set: Flip the closed container upside down for about 5 minutes to ensure the wipes are thoroughly saturated top to bottom.
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Remove Core & Start Wipes: Pull the softened cardboard roll right out from the center. This will automatically pull up the innermost wipe and start the dispenser for you!
Helper’s Tips for Success
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Customizing for sensitive skin: If using these wipes for a baby with extremely sensitive skin, skip the essential oils or switch to gentle calendula or chamomile.
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Skip the melting step: If you prefer to skip melting coconut oil, you can omit it, and the liquid will easily mix at room temperature.
