For nearly four years, I've relied on these homemade baby wipes for my three children. They're gentle enough to double as makeup remover wipes, saving significant money given the volume needed for baby care.
Best of all, you likely have most ingredients at home already.
These wipes eliminate supermarket runs, and you control every ingredient—crucial for skin safety.
Many store-bought wipes contain phenoxyethanol, flagged by health authorities. Even 'natural' or sensitive-skin options may irritate.
With this recipe, every ingredient is simple and pronounceable. In four years, my kids have had minimal rashes—likely thanks to these wipes.
After testing numerous variations, this is the most effective formula.
- 2 plastic food containers
- 1 paper towel roll
- 1 liter demineralized or purified water
- 1-2 tablespoons coconut oil
For baby wipes: a few drops of organic soap-free baby gel
For makeup remover: a few drops of organic micellar water or cleansing gel
These containers work perfectly. I prefer the one with the one-handed, four-click lid for convenience.
Sopalin 'Sur Mesure' paper towels are ideal—pre-cut half-sheets reduce waste, and they don't tear easily.
Quality costs more upfront but equates to just €1.50 per box for wipes—far cheaper than commercial packs.
Use a sharp, non-serrated knife. Remove any paper lint from the ends.
A serrated knife works but creates more lint—clean thoroughly afterward.
Add 50 cl per container. Mark the water line with a permanent marker for future batches.
For two containers, mix in a large glass measuring bowl.
Coconut oil liquifies at 25°C. Melt in a saucepan with a splash of water over low heat, then stir into the water.
It's antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antifungal, with excellent moisturizing properties for soft skin. Plus, it smells wonderful.
I've used it as a lotion alternative—results are stunning. Explore: 50 Coconut Oil Uses You Should Know.
One pump per container, then stir gently. Less is more—no rinse needed, so excess leaves residue.
Choose 100% organic, sensitive-skin formula free of chemicals that irritate baby skin.
A quality gel protects against rashes while keeping costs low.
If containers seem tight, no worries—the result is perfect.
Lids close securely. Invert containers (stack if needed) and let soak for 5 minutes.
After soaking, flip upright, open, and pull out centers. Wait until saturated to avoid mess.
Your wipes are ready! Pull from the center—simple, affordable, and effective.
- Clean your workspace first to avoid contaminants.
- Store extras in a Ziploc bag for travel.
- Two boxes last our family 1-2 weeks.
- Use only demineralized/purified water to prevent mold.
- Keep out of sun; don't over-prepare.
- Total cost: under €1.50 for two boxes—beats €2-5 commercial packs that waste easily.
- Coconut oil makes them great moisturizers or makeup removers (skip/replace gel).
- Adapt for household cleaning: 1L water + natural cleanser like black soap.
