How to Make DIY Disinfectant Wipes / Reusable DIY “Clorox” Wipes

The great thing about store-bought disinfectant wipes is that you know you are getting something clean when you use them. The bad thing about those same wipes is that they can cost a fair amount and they are going to our landfill because they can’t be reused. They have a place and a purpose for sure.

But if you want to learn how to make cleaning and DIY disinfectant wipes that can be washed and reused, then you will love this recipe for REUSABLE DIY “Clorox”-type wipes!

The Difference Between Cleansing and Disinfecting

There is definitely a difference between cleaning a surface and disinfecting it.

According to Wikipedia:

• “Disinfectants are antimicrobial agents designed to inactivate or destroy microorganisms on inert surfaces. Disinfection does not necessarily kill all microorganisms…”
• “The term cleanser refers to a product that cleans or removes dirt or other substances.”

5 Types of Household Disinfectants

Of course, you can use store-bought disinfectants to clean and disinfect hard surfaces. But if you can’t find any, here are some guidelines for the ingredients you need when making your own (according to the CDC).

1. Bleach

Solutions made of regular ol’ bleach can be used to disinfect, if appropriate for the surface.

Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for using bleach and make sure you’re in a space with proper ventilation.

To make a DIY bleach cleaner, mix:

• 5 tablespoons (1/3rd cup) bleach per gallon of water
  OR
• 4 teaspoons bleach per quart of water

Leave DIY bleach mixture on the surface for at least 1 minute.

Where to  Find Alcohol

I know that a lot of places have recently been sold out of rubbing alcohol, so even making your own disinfectant wipes can be tricky. 

Here are some suggestions of places to look for alcohol:

• your local grocery store
• the drugstore/pharmacies
• your corner store
• online places like amazon (they have been working to reduce price gouging and to increase stock of essential items)
• ULINE
• office supply stores, like Staples
• Walmart
• Target
• hardware stores

3. Hydrogen Peroxide

Hydrogen peroxide of 3% or higher can also be used as a disinfectant cleaner for most surfaces. Choose food-grade hydrogen peroxide for surfaces like cutting boards and even kitchen counters. 

4. Vinegar

Vinegar is a great disinfectant for many surfaces including bathrooms, kitchens, and even fruits and veggies. The only downside really is the smell. 

TIP: Avoid using vinegar on granite, marble, stone floors or surfaces, hardwood floors, and iron. The acid in the vinegar can break down the natural stone, wood, and iron. [source]

5. Vodka

Vodka at 140-proof or higher can be used as a disinfectant as well. Vodka is a natural deodorizer as well so it’s great on fabrics. It is flammable though – so be careful.

What About Essential Oils?

Some essential oils are said to have antiviral properties, along with antibacterial and antifungal properties.

An article in the American Journal of Essential Oils and Natural Products suggests that some essential oils may help fight flu viruses, though more research is necessary [source1,  source2].

However, I’m including a list of possible antiviral/antibacterial/antifungal essential oils here, in case you’d like to add them to your wipes for their scent or potential anti-germ properties: 

• bergamot oil
• eucalyptus oil
• red thyme
• cinnamon leaf
• lemon
• rosemary
• peppermint
• tea tree

How to Make DIY Disinfectant Wipes – for Hard, Non-Porous Surfaces! 

*Please note: these disinfectant wipes have not been lab-tested. Use good judgment and always practice good cleaning and hygiene.  

Materials

• 2 cups rubbing alcohol (at least 70% alcohol)
• 2-3 tsp Dawn dishwashing soap (adjust the amount to suit)
• 10 drops Lemon (or other) Essential Oil (for scent)
• 10 Washcloths
• Glass jar (with sealing lid so alcohol doesn’t evaporate)

Instructions

1. First decide how large you want your DIY disinfectant wipes. I cut most of my washcloths in half, but I left some full size for larger jobs.

2. Fill your jar with the washcloths.

3. In a bowl, mix together, rubbing alcohol, dish soap, and lemon essential oil.

4. Pour the cleaning mix into the jar over the washcloths.

5. Put the lid on and use wipes as needed. After your rags are dirty, just throw them in the washing machine and remake them as necessary!

How to Use Your DIY Disinfectant Wipes

To use the wipes, wipe down high-touch, hard surfaces and leave ten minutes to dry. 

Surfaces to Clean with Disinfectant Wipes

The following are surfaces that are frequently touched throughout the day, and as such should be cleaned often:

• tables
• doorknobs
• light switches
• countertops
• handles
• desks
• phones
• keyboards
• toilets,
• faucets
• sinks
• etc.

After your rags are used, just throw them in the washing machine on a hot water cycle and then remake them as necessary!