If you're already using real nappies then washable wipes are a fantastic idea. They are perfect for using on your baby's skin as you know exactly what ingredients are in them. You can make up your own lovely recipe and keep a stock of them by your changing table and in your changing bag.

If you are attempting to be environmentally friendly then washable wipes is definitely a good way to go. Even if you choose to buy wipes that contain no suspicious ingredients, you still have to dispose of that wipe. By using washables you simply pop them into your nappy bucket with your nappies.

If you are using flushable liners you can then do a complete nappy change without having to even touch a nappy sack! To make washable wipes, a good material is flannelette, the type of material that cot sheets are usually made of. I tend to pick up old ones from charity shops and cut these into small wipe size pieces.

I recently picked up this recipe for washable wipes from a lovely lady at the Cornwall Real Nappy Project. I have tested it out and it is really lovely. My daughter had been suffering with a rash for a few weeks, ever since having a nasty tummy bug. Since using this recipe on my washable wipes the rash has completely cleared up. It contains honey and lavender oil, both of these have healing properties.

Recipe

Make one mug of camomile tea. (I use the bags which are camomile, honey and vanilla)

Allow this to brew for 5 minutes.

Add one drop of lavender oil and a teasppon of olive oil.

Remove the tea bag. Add your washable wipes and let them soak up the liquid.

Transfer to your usual container for storing. Ensure it has an airtight lid so that they do not dry out.

You can make this mixture up whenever you are running short of wipes. I usually keep a small bottle of water beside my wipes so if they do start to dry out you can re-moisten them with this.