How to Make DIY Disinfectant Wipes With Leftover Napkins

From Party Napkins to DIY Cleaning Wipes!

Ever wonder what to do with all those leftover napkins from past birthday parties and holiday gatherings? They’ve been sitting in your pantry, taking up space, but today, we’re putting them to good use!

Let’s turn them into homemade cleaning wipes for everyday messes. It’s an easy, budget-friendly project that helps tidy up and repurpose at the same time. Plus, they smell amazing!

1. Prep Your Napkins

Start by folding each napkin in half so they’re easier to handle.

Now, it’s time to roll them into a neat stack:

Lay one folded napkin flat on the surface.

Take another folded napkin and place it slightly to the right of the first one, overlapping the edges.

Keep adding napkins this way, slightly overlapping each one as you go.

Once all the napkins are stacked, begin rolling them from the first napkin. You’ll end up with a tidy roll, perfect for fitting into your container!

2. Mix the Solution

In a mixing bowl, combine:

• 1 cup of 70% isopropyl alcohol (important for disinfecting power)
• 1 tablespoon of dish soap
• Optional essential oils for a pleasant scent (see fragrance options below or skip if allergies are a concern).

👉 Note: Avoid adding water, as it can dilute the alcohol and reduce its effectiveness.

Fragrance Options

Classic Fresh: Lemon + Lavender + Tea Tree

Citrus Burst: Lemon + Orange + Grapefruit

Herbal Calm: Eucalyptus + Rosemary + Lavender

Fragrance-Free: Skip the essential oils altogether for sensitive noses or food-prep areas.

3. Soak the Napkins

Stack the folded napkins into your airtight container.

Slowly pour the solution over them, ensuring even coverage. Use clean hands to press down gently, helping the mixture soak into every layer.

4. Seal and Store

Close the lid tightly to keep the wipes moist.

Add a label to the container so everyone knows what’s inside. (Tip: Use decorative tape or printable labels to make it look extra cute!)

Test Before Use: Before wiping down any surface, test a small area to ensure the napkin dye doesn’t bleed or cause staining.

Tips for a Decorative Touch

Your homemade cleaning wipes don’t have to hide in the cabinet! Use a clear container and add a label with:

• The ingredients list
• A fun name like "DIY All-Purpose Wipes"
• Instructions for re-soaking.

Use printable label templates or a piece of chalkboard tape for a customizable option.

You can also tie a ribbon around the container to match your decor.

Eco-Friendly Alternatives

Want to ditch the single-use napkins? Use old fabric scraps (like T-shirts or dishcloths) instead. Wash and reuse them by soaking them in a fresh batch of cleaning solution when needed.

How to Make DIY Disinfectant Wipes from Party Napkins

Making your own DIY disinfectant wipes is a great way to save money and reduce waste.