Learn how to make a simple, all‑natural DIY baby wash using just a few gentle ingredients like castile soap, vegetable glycerin, and a light carrier oil. This easy recipe saves money and gives you control over what touches your baby’s skin.
I’m particular about safe, natural ingredients for baby care. With several children and the last few having sensitive skin, I found store-bought “natural” products were costly and sometimes contained ingredients I couldn’t even pronounce. Making your own baby wash is far easier and more affordable than you might expect. One batch lasts months, and you can customize the scent and ingredients to suit your baby’s needs.
Why Make DIY Baby Wash
It’s All Natural
Many commercial baby washes include preservatives, artificial fragrances, and other additives that can irritate delicate newborn skin. This DIY recipe uses simple, recognizable ingredients that are gentle and suitable for sensitive skin.
Artificial fragrances can trigger allergic reactions or respiratory irritation in some children. Making your own wash lets you avoid those risks.
It’s More Affordable
Natural baby products in stores are often expensive. This homemade wash costs only a few dollars to make and yields enough to last for months, so it’s budget friendly for families.
It’s Easy
Prepare a batch in about five minutes with no special equipment—just combine the ingredients in a bottle or jar, shake, and use.
What You Need to Make DIY Baby Wash
- Unscented Castile Soap – a mild, plant‑based soap that’s suitable for sensitive skin and free of added fragrances and harsh chemicals.
- Vegetable Glycerin – a natural humectant that helps moisturize and gives the wash a slightly thicker, foamy feel.
- Sweet Almond Oil – a light carrier oil that helps soothe and moisturize baby’s skin; jojoba oil is an easy substitute if preferred.
- Aloe Vera Gel – optional but beneficial for extra hydration and calming irritated skin such as eczema or baby acne.
- Essential Oils (optional) – use only very gentle oils and always dilute them well in a carrier oil. Skip essential oils entirely if your baby has extremely sensitive skin.
- Foaming Soap Container or Mason Jar – a foaming dispenser gives a gentle foam; alternatively, store the mixture in a sealed jar and use a small amount on wet hands.
Which Essential Oils Are Safe to Use on Babies’ Skin?
Certain essential oils are considered milder and may be used in very low dilutions, but always consult a pediatrician if you have concerns. If you choose to use essential oils, dilute heavily with a carrier oil such as jojoba, almond, or coconut oil. If unsure, omit them.
- Lavender
- Sweet orange (diluted)
- Chamomile
- Copaiba
- Cedarwood
- Rosemary (use with caution and in low dilution)
Is It Easy to Make DIY Baby Wash?
Yes. Mix the ingredients and you’re done—total prep time is about five minutes. The simple method makes this a practical option for busy parents.
Is This DIY Baby Wash Tear Free?
Castile soap is gentle but not tear‑free. Avoid getting the wash in your baby’s eyes; if it does get in, rinse with clear water or wipe gently with a wet cloth.
How Long Does DIY Baby Wash Last?
If made without added water and stored in a sealed container, this homemade baby wash can last up to six months. If you dilute the mixture with water, even distilled, its shelf life decreases and it should be used within about two weeks to avoid bacterial growth.
Does This Homemade Baby Wash Help With Eczema?
The recipe includes moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera and sweet almond oil, which can help soothe and support skin prone to eczema or baby acne. As always, patch test a small area first and consult your pediatrician for persistent skin concerns.
How To Make DIY Baby Wash
- In a pint‑size mason jar or foaming soap dispenser, combine: 1 cup unscented castile soap, 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin, 1 teaspoon almond oil, 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel (optional), and up to 10 drops of a gentle essential oil if desired.
- Shake or stir well to blend. If using a foaming dispenser, fill according to the dispenser’s instructions.
Tips
To Store
Keep the baby wash in a sealed container out of direct sunlight. Un‑diluted, it will remain stable for up to six months. If you dilute with water, refrigerate and use within two weeks.
To Use
Apply a small amount to wet hands, then gently cleanse your baby’s skin and hair. Avoid the eyes, as this formula is not tear‑free.
Substitutions
Swap jojoba oil for almond oil if preferred. Aloe vera gel is optional. Omit essential oils for very sensitive skin or if you prefer an unscented product.
Not Enough Suds?
Hard water can reduce lather. Even with less foam, the wash cleans effectively—foam is not an indicator of cleaning power.
More DIY Ideas For You:
If you enjoy making your own toiletries, consider trying other gentle homemade products such as natural baby lotion, oatmeal soap, or simple lip balm recipes to round out a natural care routine.
DIY Baby Wash
5 minutes
5 minutes
Simple ingredients combine to make a gentle, customizable baby wash you can feel good about using.
Ingredients
- 1 cup unscented castile soap
- 1 tablespoon vegetable glycerin
- 1 teaspoon almond oil
- 10 drops essential oils (optional)
- 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel (optional)
Instructions
- In a pint‑sized mason jar or foaming soap dispenser, mix all of the ingredients.
- Shake or stir well to combine.
Notes
To Store
Store in a sealed container for up to six months if not diluted. If diluted with water, use within two weeks.
To Use
Squirt a small amount onto wet hands and apply to your baby’s skin and hair. Avoid the eyes.
Substitutions
Jojoba oil can replace almond oil. Aloe vera is optional. Omit essential oils for very sensitive skin.
Not Enough Suds
Hard water may reduce lather. The wash remains effective even with minimal foam.
I hope you enjoy this homemade baby wash. If you try it, consider leaving a comment with your experience so others can benefit from your feedback.