How to Make Reusable Cloth Baby Wipes

Cloth diapering is a popular, natural and budget-friendly alternative to disposable diapers, which are expensive and can be harmful to the environment. Many who use cloth diapers also make reusable cloth baby wipes for the same reasons. Some prefer cloth wipes because their babies have sensitive skin. Read on to learn how to make reusable cloth baby wipes.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sewing machine or serger
• Fabric
• Thread
• Wipe solution

1. Choose fabric for the cloth baby wipes. Absorbent cotton fabrics are the best. Try cotton flannel or terrycloth. You may be able to use fabric you have on hand, or recycle a few flannel receiving blankets or a worn baby towel. Look for fun baby prints.

2. Cut fabric into squares about 7 by 7 inches. You will need two squares for each wipe. A standard size receiving blanket should produce about 12 squares, making six wipes. If desired, make a pattern out of cardboard to ensure consistency.

3. Sew two squares of fabric together with right sides facing out. Serge or zig-zag stitch the outer edges. Repeat for all wipes.

4. Quilt or embroider the wipes. This is not necessary, but adds a creative touch.

5. Prepare a wipe solution by mixing using 1/8 cup baby shampoo, 1/8 cup baby oil and 1/8 cup aloe vera gel in two cups lukewarm water. Store solution in a clean bottle. As needed, shake mixture and apply to cloth baby wipes just prior to use.

Tips & Warnings

• Begin your stash with about two dozen baby wipes.
• Look for soft baby washcloths to use as additional wipes
• Store several wet wipes (use wipe solution) in a plastic wipe container.

Resources

• Sew Diapers Site for Additional Information
• Flannel Fabric and More at Yard by Yard Fabrics and Crafts

[lemonpeppoart]

on 6/13/2009 I love this idea and will use it whenever I have a need for wipes! Thanks very much!

[CrunchyMama]

on 4/23/2008 Embroidering wipes might not be the best idea. The embroidery creates a raised, bumpy surface that may scratch/irritate baby's sensitive bottom. Textured fabrics are wonderful for wipes, as the clean much better than smooth fabrics. Fleece and velour are two of my favorite materials. Be sure you choose a natural fabric that will absorb your wipes solution, rather than a polyester fleece. Otherwise you will have dry wipes instead of wet wipes!