How many people frequently purchase disposable disinfecting wipes? You know which ones we are talking about. They come in yellow, green, or blue tubes and the titans of wipes are Clorox and Lysol. As convenient as these wipes may be, they present an array of problems, including increased exposure to toxic chemicals. Fortunately, it’s easy to make non-toxic reusable cleaning wipes with simple, natural ingredients.
The Problem With Disposable Wipes
There isn’t just one single problem, there are many. Many people use them for routine cleaning, despite the fact that they are not intended for that purpose. The disinfectant chemicals in these wipes can trigger allergies, asthma symptoms, and other reactions. If you explore the EWG pages about Lysol and Clorox wipes, you’ll notice that they both received a “D” score. That means that they are toxic and may contain ingredients that have been insufficiently tested for health risks. Finally, the wipes are not eco-friendly, given that they are intended for single-use.
The Difference Between Cleaning And Disinfecting
When you clean a surface, the first thing to note is whether or not you need to clean or disinfect. Regularly cleaning surfaces helps to remove germs or bacteria and prevents them from spreading. Disinfectants work to destroy germs, viruses, or bacteria on contact. That’s why disinfectants are necessary when raw meat, blood, bodily fluids, or the presence of a contagious illness is in your household. Additionally, using too many disinfectants can cause superbugs, so the bacteria become resistant to disinfectants. That means that you expose yourself to harmful chemicals for no reason.
Cleaning
Cleaning works to remove germs, dirt, and other grime from objects or surfaces. People typically use soap or some other detergent mixed with water and use a sponge to physically clean the desired area. It may not kill germs, but it does lessen the amount and reduce the risk of spreading to you.
Disinfecting
Chemicals are used to kill the germs or bacteria on contact. Common disinfectants include bleach and isopropyl alcohol with 70% alcohol content. It’s wise to leave the disinfectant on the surface or object for a couple minutes to effectively kill the germs. It’s important to note that disinfecting a surface does not mean that it becomes clean.
It’s very effective and much healthier to clean with simple products that contain natural ingredients. This is why we recommend that you make your own cleaning wipes. Most people have old blankets, flannels, or cloths that they no longer use. You can easily cut those materials into squares, soak them in the solution, and use them when ready.
DIY Non-Toxic Reusable Cleaning Wipes
Ingredients:
- 2 cups distilled water
- 2 tablespoons Castile soap
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
- 10 drops lemon essential oil
- Reusable kitchen cloth
- Airtight container
Instructions:
- Cut the reusable kitchen wipes or old fabric that you have to fit the container you use. It’s best to cut fabric into squares or rectangles.
- Add the soap and essential oils to the container and gently mix.
- Add the cleaning wipes to the container and then add water so that the wipes are fully submerged.
- Cover the container they are ready to go!
How To Use:
- Remove a wipe from the container and wring out excess liquid.
- Clean the surface you want with the wipe and then wash the wipe in the laundry after use.
- Once you finish all your wipes, make a new batch.
