Reusable Wipes

We have been doing cloth diapers for the past 6.5 years, most times having 2 in diapers.  Someday, soon, we'll be done.  When we first started, I wanted some sort of reusable wipes to go with the diapers.  The easiest, cheapest solution was to make my own.  I started with any old recieving blanket (this is a good time to use up the stained or ripped ones).

Because these are going to be used soley for cleaning baby's bottom, I didn't feel like making them perfect...in fact, the faster, the better.  I didn't even iron them before cutting (I know, Mom!!).  I estimated the size, eyeballed the lines, and cut quickly.  I cut each blanked into quarters, then each of those into quarters.  These might end up being too small for you, but you can choose whatever size you'd like.

I actually just used a pair of pinking shears so I didn't have to do any sewing.  They do fray a bit, but not too much.  If you don't mind a bit of sewing, it's very quick to zigzag along the edges of each cloth.

Some people have suggested storing the wipes in a box with some cleaning solution.  I don't like that idea - it seems to me that it might get mouldy sitting in the water.  Other people use a spray bottle, but I like using this old baby wash bottle because you can pump with one hand while changing the baby with the other.  It's so very easy!

I've used a variety of solutions in the bottle.  You can Google some great recipes, but I usually put 2 squirts of baby wash, then fill the rest with water.  Sometimes I add a few drops of lavender oil, or if there's a rash, I add a bit of baking soda.  Other times, I'm in such a hurry that I just fill it with water...and guess what!  It works just as well! No chemicals, no scent...nothing!  Better for baby, better for the environment.  Our boys have sensitive skin, but have no problem with these.

Aside from being environmentally friendly, and saving a lot of money over the years, I like these because they are stronger than most disposable wipes.  I can use just one usually, but with disposables, I use two or three.

I just throw them into the diaper pail with the diapers to wash.  Even if you don't do cloth diapers, you can keep a small bucket and do a (small) load every few days or so.

This would also make a great, easy gift for a new mom!