Keeping yourself and your home clean is crucial in today's world. With the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, disinfecting surfaces has become more important than ever before. But, with the rising demand for disinfecting wipes, store-bought options have become scarce, expensive, and even harmful, thanks to the harmful chemicals in them. This is where homemade disinfecting wipes come into the picture. By making your own wipes, you can ensure that they're effective, safe, and budget-friendly. Let's delve into how to make homemade disinfecting wipes step-by-step.
Why Make Homemade Disinfecting Wipes?
There are several reasons why making homemade disinfecting wipes is beneficial.
- They are effective in killing germs and viruses
- They are eco-friendly and non-toxic, making them safe to use around children and pets
- They are inexpensive to make, allowing you to save money in the long run
Another benefit of making homemade disinfecting wipes is that you can customize them to your liking. You can choose the type of essential oils to add for a pleasant scent, or adjust the strength of the disinfectant solution to suit your needs.
In addition, making your own disinfecting wipes can be a fun and rewarding DIY project. It allows you to take control of the products you use in your home and can give you a sense of accomplishment knowing that you made them yourself.
Ingredients Needed for Homemade Disinfecting Wipes
The following materials are required for making homemade disinfecting wipes:
- Paper towels or reusable cloths
- 3/4th cup of rubbing alcohol or white vinegar
- 1/4th cup of distilled water or boiled tap water
- 15 to 20 drops of essential oils like tea tree, peppermint, lavender, or lemon
It is important to note that homemade disinfecting wipes should be used within a week of making them. After a week, the effectiveness of the disinfectant may decrease. Additionally, it is recommended to store the wipes in an airtight container to prevent them from drying out. These wipes can be used to clean and disinfect surfaces such as countertops, doorknobs, and light switches.
Alternative Ingredients to Use in Making Disinfecting Wipes
If you don't have access to the ingredients mentioned above, you can use these alternatives:
- Hydrogen peroxide instead of rubbing alcohol
- Tap water instead of distilled water
- Dish soap instead of essential oils
It's important to note that while these alternatives can be effective in making disinfecting wipes, they may not be as potent as the original ingredients. Hydrogen peroxide has a lower concentration of alcohol than rubbing alcohol, tap water may contain impurities that can affect the effectiveness of the wipes, and dish soap may not have the same antimicrobial properties as essential oils. It's always best to use the recommended ingredients if possible, but in a pinch, these alternatives can work as well.
Step-by-Step Guide on Making Homemade Disinfecting Wipes
Here's a step-by-step guide on making your own disinfecting wipes:
- Take a large bowl and mix the rubbing alcohol (or hydrogen peroxide), distilled water (or tap water), and essential oils (or dish soap) together or shake them in a bottle.
- Cut the paper towels or reusable cloths into squares to fit in your container.
- Place the cut wipes in the container to fill it up - without overcrowding them.
- Pour the liquid mixture over the wipes, making sure to moisten all the wipes completely.
- Let the wipes sit and get soaked by the liquid for around 15-20 minutes.
- Your disinfecting wipes are ready to use!
It's important to note that homemade disinfecting wipes should not be used as a substitute for proper hand washing and cleaning practices. These wipes can be a helpful addition to your cleaning routine, but they should not be relied upon as the sole method of disinfecting surfaces. Additionally, it's important to properly label and store your homemade wipes to avoid any confusion or accidental ingestion.
How to Customize Your Homemade Disinfecting Wipes
You can customize your homemade disinfecting wipes by:
- Choosing essential oils that you enjoy, and that have disinfectant properties
- Adding additional ingredients such as aloe vera gel or glycerine to make the wipes gentler on the skin
- Adding a pleasant scent to the wipes by using a mixture of oils or adding citrus peels to the bottle
Another way to customize your homemade disinfecting wipes is by using different types of paper towels. Some paper towels are more absorbent than others, which can affect how much of the disinfectant solution is absorbed. You can also choose paper towels that are more eco-friendly, such as those made from recycled materials.
How to Store and Use Your Homemade Disinfecting Wipes
Store your homemade disinfecting wipes in an airtight container, away from direct sunlight, heat, or moisture. Use them on surfaces such as countertops, door handles, faucets, and any other frequently-touched areas. Wipe the surface using the homemade wipes and let it air dry.
It is important to note that homemade disinfecting wipes should not be used on electronic devices such as phones, tablets, or laptops. The moisture from the wipes can damage the devices. Instead, use a microfiber cloth or a disinfectant spray specifically designed for electronics.
When making your own disinfecting wipes, be sure to label the container with the date they were made. Homemade wipes typically have a shelf life of about a week, so it is important to use them within that time frame. If you notice any mold or mildew on the wipes, discard them immediately and make a fresh batch.
Are Homemade Disinfecting Wipes Effective Against COVID-19?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), properly-formulated homemade cleaning products, including disinfectants, can kill germs, including COVID-19, when used correctly. However, make sure to clean high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, keyboards, and phones frequently, and use hand sanitizer or wash your hands thoroughly after going out.
It is important to note that not all homemade disinfecting wipes are created equal. Some DIY recipes may not contain the necessary ingredients or concentrations to effectively kill germs, including COVID-19. It is recommended to follow a trusted recipe or use a commercial disinfecting wipe that has been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for use against COVID-19.
In addition to using disinfecting wipes, it is also important to practice social distancing, wear a mask in public, and avoid large gatherings to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. By taking these precautions and properly cleaning and disinfecting high-touch surfaces, we can all do our part to keep ourselves and our communities safe and healthy.
How to Save Money by Making Your Own Disinfecting Wipes
By making your own disinfecting wipes, you can save a significant amount of money over time. Store-bought disinfecting wipes can be expensive and can be used up quickly. However, by making your own disinfecting wipes at home, you can save money and always have a backup supply of disinfecting wipes.
Additionally, making your own disinfecting wipes allows you to control the ingredients and avoid harsh chemicals that may be present in store-bought wipes. You can use natural ingredients such as vinegar, essential oils, and water to create a safe and effective disinfecting solution. This is not only better for your health, but also for the environment as you reduce the amount of waste produced by disposable store-bought wipes.
Comparing the Cost of Commercial vs Homemade Disinfecting Wipes
Commercial disinfecting wipes can cost anywhere from $0.10 to $0.30 per wipe. However, by making your own wipes, the cost per wipe is often less than half the price of store-bought wipes. The cost of homemade disinfecting wipes can vary depending on the quality of the ingredients and the size of the wipes.
In addition to being more cost-effective, homemade disinfecting wipes can also be more environmentally friendly. Many store-bought wipes come in plastic packaging that is not recyclable, whereas homemade wipes can be made using reusable containers and washable cloths. This reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills.
Another advantage of making your own disinfecting wipes is that you have more control over the ingredients. Many commercial wipes contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to both people and the environment. By making your own wipes, you can choose natural and non-toxic ingredients that are safer for your family and pets.
Tips for Using and Recycling Old T-Shirts as Cleaning Rags for Your DIY Wipes
If you want to reduce waste and save money, you can recycle old t-shirts as cleaning rags for your DIY wipes. Some tips to keep in mind include:
- Cut the t-shirts into small squares to fit your container without overcrowding them.
- Use white or lightly-colored t-shirts to avoid discoloration of your wipes.
- Wash the t-shirts before using them to ensure they are clean and free of bacteria.
Another tip to consider is to use t-shirts made of natural fibers, such as cotton or linen, as they are more absorbent and durable than synthetic materials. Additionally, you can designate different t-shirts for different cleaning tasks, such as one for dusting and another for wiping down surfaces. This can help prevent cross-contamination and ensure that your cleaning is more effective. By following these tips, you can make the most out of your old t-shirts and create a more sustainable cleaning routine.
How to Make Your Own Natural Cleaning Solutions for Your DIY Wipes
You can make natural cleaning solutions for your homemade disinfecting wipes by combining different ingredients such as vinegar, lemon juice, baking soda, and essential oils. These ingredients are safe to use and will leave your home smelling fresh and clean. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for you.
Vinegar is a great natural cleaning solution that can be used to clean a variety of surfaces in your home. It is effective at removing dirt, grime, and stains, and can also help to disinfect surfaces. To make a vinegar-based cleaning solution for your DIY wipes, simply mix equal parts water and vinegar together.
Another natural cleaning solution that you can use for your homemade disinfecting wipes is lemon juice. Lemon juice is a natural disinfectant and can help to remove stains and odors from surfaces. To make a lemon juice-based cleaning solution, mix equal parts water and lemon juice together.
Benefits of Using Homemade Disinfectant Products Over Commercial Options
The benefits of using homemade disinfectants include:
- Homemade disinfectants are safe to use and are free of harmful chemicals that can harm the environment and your health.
- Homemade disinfectants are cost-effective, allowing you to save money in the long run.
- Homemade disinfectants are customizable, allowing you to choose ingredients and scents that you love.
In addition to the benefits listed above, using homemade disinfectants also allows you to have more control over the strength and effectiveness of the product. You can adjust the concentration of the ingredients to suit your needs and ensure that the disinfectant is strong enough to kill germs and bacteria. Furthermore, making your own disinfectant products can be a fun and rewarding DIY project that promotes sustainability and reduces waste.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Your Own Cleaning Products
It's important to avoid common mistakes when making your own cleaning products. Some of these mistakes include:
- Not mixing the ingredients correctly, which can result in inefficient or ineffective cleaning products.
- Using poor-quality ingredients, which can reduce the effectiveness of the cleaning product.
- Storing the cleaning product in unsuitable containers, which can cause it to evaporate, dry out, or become contaminated.
Another common mistake to avoid when making your own cleaning products is not properly labeling them. It's important to clearly label your cleaning products with the ingredients used and the date they were made. This will help you keep track of the products you have and ensure that you use them before they expire. Additionally, if you have children or pets in your home, labeling your cleaning products can help prevent accidental ingestion or exposure.
The Future of DIY Cleaning Products and Sustainability
DIY cleaning products are a sustainable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective alternative to commercial cleaning products. As more people become aware of the benefits of DIY cleaning products, they are likely to become more popular. DIY cleaning products are a small step that any of us can take to contribute to sustainability.
To summarize, homemade disinfecting wipes are easy to make, effective, and safe. With the right ingredients and equipment, you can create your own wipes at home, and customize them to your liking. Consider making your own disinfecting wipes the next time you need to deep clean your home or workplace. Not only will you be saving money, but you will also be doing your part in contributing to sustainability.
Furthermore, DIY cleaning products are not only better for the environment, but they are also better for our health. Commercial cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can be harmful to our respiratory system and skin. By making our own cleaning products, we can control the ingredients and ensure that we are not exposing ourselves or our families to harmful toxins. This is especially important for those with allergies or sensitivities to certain chemicals.
