DIY Disinfectant Wipes Solution
A DIY disinfectant solution to soak reusable cloths or towels
A refillable wipes solution that actually disinfects, not just cleans. The Isopropyl Alcohol is the active ingredient here, and it needs to be present at the right concentration to work properly. I use reusable cloths rather than paper, which means this solution pays for itself quickly while generating almost no waste.
Yield 500 mL · Difficulty Beginner · Time 10 minutes
Ingredients
- 300 mL Distilled Water
- 150 mL Isopropyl Alcohol
- 20 mL Liquid Castile Soap
- 20–30 drops Lift Essential Oil Blend (optional)
Method
- Combine the Liquid Castile Soap and Essential Oil in a clean jar.
- Add the Isopropyl Alcohol and stir.
- Add the Distilled Water and combine.
- Place folded reusable cloths or cut paper towels into the solution, or pour into a wipe dispenser.
- Seal and label with product name, date made, flammability warning, and ‘External use only’.
Equipment
- Jar or container with tight-fitting lid
- Measuring jug
How to use
Remove a wipe or cloth from the solution. Wipe the surface thoroughly and allow to air dry. For disinfecting, leave the surface wet for 30–60 seconds. Do not use on food contact surfaces without rinsing.
Storage
Store in a sealed container in a cool, dark place away from heat and open flames. Use within 3 months.
Safety
Isopropyl Alcohol is flammable, keep away from open flames. Ensure adequate ventilation. For external use on hard surfaces only; not for skin or ingestion. Keep out of reach of children.
What else is in this recipe
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Liquid Castile Soap adds cleaning action to the disinfecting base, lifting dirt and grime before the alcohol sanitises
-
Distilled Water dilutes the alcohol to the working concentration and helps the solution distribute evenly across the cloth
-
Essential Oil optional. Tea Tree adds antimicrobial support; Lemon adds a clean, fresh scent
I recommend trying it with Lift
Wipes sit sealed in a container between uses, which is exactly the situation where a blend with Tea Tree and Eucalyptus in it earns its place. Lift keeps the solution smelling fresh in the tub rather than stale.
Make it yourself: every ingredient is available at homemadehaven.com.au.
Small Batch • Handcrafted in Australia