DIY Cleaning Wipes

While commercial cleaning wipes have been around for years, they were in high demand and short supply during the pandemic a few years ago. For many, cleaning wipes were the most convenient way to tackle harmful germs as well as messes. While they are effective, store-bought cleaning wipes have their shortfalls. After learning how to make DIY cleaning wipes, you may never buy store-bought wipes again.

Why Make Your Own Cleaning Wipes?

The cleaning wipes available at your local store and online are laden with strong chemicals. If you read the package label, you will find numerous health warnings. Depending which product you select, these warnings describe possible skin and eye irritation, respiratory issues and more.

The chemicals also can damage some materials and must be used with care. More than that, they are expensive and relatively inconvenient. After all, when you run out, you suffer with a less-than-clean home until you can get to the store again.

With DIY cleaning wipes, you can save money and make your wipes as needed. By keeping the supplies on hand, you will never be without cleaning wipes. While these cleaning wipes are just as effective as the ones available at the store, they have far fewer health concerns. Plus, you can use them on many more surfaces without concern about damaging them.

DIY Cleaning Wipe Recipes

There are a few recipes available for making DIY cleaning wipes. One recipe uses heavy-duty paper towels, a 70% rubbing alcohol solution and essential oils. Place the paper towels in an airtight container in neat layers. Cover the paper towels in rubbing alcohol, and add a few essential oils for a wonderful scent. Essential oils that have antibacterial properties include peppermint, tea tree, lemon, eucalyptus, lavender and others.

Another recipe uses a roll of paper towels, an empty wipes container, vinegar, water, liquid dish soap and essential oils. Cut the roll of paper towels in half horizontally using a serrated kitchen knife. This trims the roll down so that it fits in the wipes container. In a pitcher, mix a cup of water, two teaspoons of dish soap and a half-cup of vinegar.

For extra cleaning power, pour a couple of teaspoons of hydrogen peroxide into the pitcher as well. You can also add several drops of essential oils, if desired. With the paper towels in the wipes container, pour the cleaning solution over them. Then, carefully remove the cardboard roll in the center of the paper towels. Run the edge of the innermost paper towels up through the top of the wipes container.

Tips for Effective Use and Storage

Usage

Before using your DIY cleaning wipes on any surface, do some research. Ensure that the ingredients in your preferred recipe are safe for use on the surface. Depending on how much cleaning solution you use and how absorbent the paper towels are, the wipes may be dripping wet.

Squeeze out excess cleaner before using the wipes to speed up drying time and prevent moisture-related damage and streaks.

Storage

Your cleaning wipes should be stored in an airtight container. This optimizes their shelf life and ensures that they retain their cleaning power for a longer period of time.

In addition, clearly label your storage container. Be sure to list the ingredients in your wipes. Store them at room temperature and out of reach of children and pets.

Shelf Life

The shelf life of your cleaning wipes is directly affected by the storage container as well as the ingredients used.

For example, rubbing alcohol will dry out within an hour if not stored in an airtight container. The soapy water and vinegar recipe could retain its effectiveness and not dry out for several months if the wipes are properly stored.

FAQs

Can I Use DIY Wipes on All Surfaces?

As is the case with most cleaning products, DIY wipes are not safe to use on all surfaces. For example, vinegar can etch and erode natural stone, such as granite and marble.

Rubbing alcohol can strip paint and finish off of wood and walls. It also shouldn’t be used on leather, some fabrics and several other materials. Do your research before cleaning any surface in your home with a new product.

Are Homemade Cleaning Wipes as Effective as Store-Bought Ones?

Store-bought cleaning wipes are often made with bleach, which is an effective disinfectant. DIY wipes can be made with rubbing alcohol, vinegar or hydrogen peroxide. These are just as effective at fighting many germs.

How Do I Keep My Wipes From Drying Out?

The best way to keep your wipes from drying out is to store them in an airtight container. Ensure that the container is tightly sealed after each use.

You don’t have to clean your house on your own to enjoy the benefits of green cleaning. At Cleanzen, we proudly offer green cleaning services in Boston. Our hardworking, efficient cleaners will leave your home sparkling clean after every visit. Schedule service for your home today.