How to Make Effective Homemade Disinfecting Wipes

Understanding the Distinction: Cleaning vs. Disinfecting

It’s important to recognize that cleaning and disinfecting serve different purposes in maintaining a healthy environment.

Cleaning focuses on removing dirt, food particles, liquids, and various impurities from surfaces.
Disinfecting goes a step further by killing viruses and germs on surfaces and objects.

While many homemade cleaning wipes are excellent for cleaning tasks, they often fall short when it comes to disinfection. Most DIY cleaning solutions typically consist of ingredients like vinegar, Castile soap, or natural detergents such as Sal Suds or dish soap. While these components are effective for cleaning, they are not capable of disinfecting surfaces effectively.

To create truly effective homemade disinfecting wipes similar to Lysol or Clorox wipes, the disinfectant solution must contain a minimum of 70% alcohol, as recommended by the CDC. This means you should utilize either isopropyl alcohol (commonly known as rubbing alcohol) or a grain alcohol that is at least 140 proof.

With the right recipe, making DIY disinfectant wipes that are safe and free from harsh chemicals is simple. Below, I provide you with everything you need to know.

The Three Essential Ingredients for Homemade Disinfecting Wipes

1. Alcohol

Alcohol serves as a natural antibacterial and antiviral agent. It works by damaging the cell walls of germs, allowing it to penetrate and destroy them. According to the CDC, it is essential to use an alcohol concentration of at least 70% to effectively disinfect surfaces. You can choose between ethanol (the type found in consumable alcohol) and isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol), both of which are effective disinfectants. Here are some options:

70%+ Ethanol Products: Look for 140 proof or higher grain alcohols. These can typically be found in the grain alcohol or vodka section of liquor stores.
- Everclear (190 proof, 92.4% ethanol)
- Spirytus Vodka (Note: Most vodka sold in the U.S. is 80 proof, or 40% alcohol, but Spirytus vodka is 192 proof, 96% alcohol. Ensure it is at least 140 proof for this recipe.)
- Golden Grain (190 proof, 95% alcohol)
70%+ Isopropyl Alcohol: Available in the pharmaceutical section of stores like Walmart or Target. Look for products labeled as isopropyl alcohol or rubbing alcohol.
- 70% rubbing alcohol
- 91% rubbing alcohol
- 99% rubbing alcohol

2. Hydrogen Peroxide

Research published in the Journal of Hospital Infection indicates that viruses can be effectively inactivated using disinfectants that contain alcohol along with at least 0.5% hydrogen peroxide.

3. Essential Oils

Essential oils not only add a pleasant fragrance but also possess disinfecting properties, including antiviral, antibacterial, antiseptic, and antimicrobial characteristics. Below is a list of essential oils known for their disinfecting abilities:

Tea Tree Oil
Lavender Oil
Geranium Oil
Lemon Oil
Orange Oil
Eucalyptus Oil
Rosemary Oil
Cinnamon Oil
Clove Oil
Thyme Oil
Peppermint Oil

My Favorite Uses for Disinfecting Wipes

I rely on these disinfecting wipes for various tasks throughout my home, particularly on non-porous hard surfaces. Here are some areas where I utilize them:

In the Kitchen

Countertops
Trash Cans
Cabinet Pulls
Faucets
Light Switches
Refrigerator Handles
Oven Knobs and Handles

In the Bathroom

Doorknobs
Light Switches
Toilet
Faucets
Bathroom Countertops

Throughout My Home

Remote Controls
Computer Mouse
Thermometers
Light Switches
Doorknobs

Outside My Home

Steering Wheel and Gearshift in My Car
Shopping Carts
Restaurant Tables
Airplane: Air Vents, Seat Belts, Tray Tables, Seatbacks

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Disinfecting Wipes

Step 1: Mix the Ingredients

3 cups of alcohol (refer to the note below for alcohol options)
¾ teaspoon hydrogen peroxide (3% solution)
20 drops of lemon essential oil
15 drops of clove essential oil
10 drops of cinnamon bark essential oil
5 drops of eucalyptus radiata essential oil
5 drops of rosemary essential oil

Important: The CDC advises using a disinfectant with at least 70% alcohol for effective disinfection. The alcohol used should be either isopropyl alcohol (rubbing alcohol) or grain alcohol that is at least 140 proof. Here are some appropriate options to consider for your disinfecting needs:

70%+ Ethanol Products: Look for 140 proof or higher drinkable grain alcohols in liquor stores.
70%+ Isopropyl Alcohol: Available in the pharmaceutical section of stores; look for isopropyl alcohol labeled products.

Step 2: Prepare the Wipes Container

Pour approximately 2 cups of the alcohol/hydrogen peroxide/essential oil mixture into your wipes container.

Tip: Choose a container with an airtight lid and ensure it is made from materials safe for use with diluted essential oils. Suitable options include glass, stainless steel, and certain plastics (plastic #1 HDPE or plastic #2 PET). Make sure the container is large enough to accommodate 30-40 paper towels and the 3 cups of disinfecting solution.

Step 3: Prepare the Paper Towels

You can use high-quality paper towels, dinner napkins, or disposable guest towels. Ensure whatever you select is sturdy enough to withstand the disinfectant.
Use about 30-40 Select-a-Size paper towels, dinner napkins, or guest towels.
If using paper towels, fold each one in half for easier access.
Stack the 30-40 wipes neatly on top of each other.

Step 4: Add the Wipes to Your Container

Fold the stack of wipes and carefully insert them into your wipes container.

Step 5: Saturate the Wipes

Turn the wipes container on its side and gently swirl the disinfectant liquid around the wipes to ensure they are thoroughly moistened.

Step 6: Pour Remaining Liquid

Pour the remaining cup of disinfectant solution over the wipes, ensuring that all wipes are adequately wet.

Tip: It’s essential to have some liquid at the bottom of your wipes container to keep the wipes properly moistened for future use.

Step 7 (Optional): Add a Label

Consider adding a label to your container for easy identification. You can find a free printable label and recipe online.

Using Your Homemade Disinfecting Wipes

If the surface is visibly dirty, pre-clean it with an all-purpose cleaner or cleaning wipes.
Remove a wipe from the container, ensuring it is adequately saturated with the disinfectant solution.
Wipe hard, non-porous surfaces until they appear visibly wet.
Allow the surface to remain wet for a few minutes to ensure effective disinfection, then let it air dry.

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Disclaimer: The products mentioned in this article have not been evaluated by the FDA. The information provided is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always seek professional medical advice when necessary. This website is not a substitute for professional care.

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