For several the past several months it has been nearly impossible for me to find disinfecting wipes in stock at stores or even online retailers. The world definitely feels like a different place now, and while I normally wouldn’t go through the trouble of making my own products when I can simply purchase them, I now realize the importance in learning to make my own supplies in a pinch when nothing else is available.

Today I’m sharing how I made these handy DIY Disinfecting Wipes. I use them mostly on doorknobs and my kitchen counter. It’s reassuring to know that I’m cleaning my home and getting rid of any harmful bacteria lingering on our most used surface areas.

Important: please read the CDC recommendations for cleaning and disinfecting your home.

Supplies:

• ½ roll high-quality paper towels (pictured: Viva Select-a-Size)
• Scissors, if needed
• Plastic container with lid, for storing
• 2 to 5 drops tea tree oil, optional (for fragrance and antibacterial properties)
• 2 tablespoons bleach (at least 1000ppm sodium hypochlorite or a sodium hypochlorite concentration of 5%–6%; also be sure that bleach is not past expiration date)
• 2 cups distilled water

Directions:

Cut paper towel roll in half with a serrated knife. Trim any rough edges with scissors. Place paper towel into the container (if they don’t fit into the container until they’re wet, you may place them in a bowl).

Combine water, bleach and tea tree oil in a large bowl. Pour over the paper towels, giving it a minute to soak (because the cardboard tube inside of the paper towels need to be softened enough in order to remove them).

Place paper towels into the container and pour any remaining liquid over the top. Pull paper towels from the middle to start.