If you were to examine my bathroom countertops, you’d find them dotted with an array of natural skincare items. While many healthy and natural choices are available today, I still enjoy crafting my own products at times. In fact, during my children’s infancy, I prepared nearly all of their baby care essentials myself.
Even if you’re not quite ready to embrace the trend of DIY deodorants and toothpaste, you might consider venturing into homemade baby care recipes. This approach ensures that your little ones are being cared for with simple, natural ingredients that are gentler on their delicate skin.
The skin of babies absorbs whatever is applied to it, making homemade formulations a practical solution. Below are the recipes I utilized for my children when they were young, which I also share with friends who welcome new babies.
Natural Diaper Rash Cream – Cloth Diaper Safe!
I began using cloth diapers with my third child and I’m truly pleased I made the switch! Not only does it save money, but it’s also more environmentally friendly and less complicated than I had anticipated. I had heard too many unsettling tales from older relatives about traditional cloth diapers. Thanks to modern cloth options and improved nutrition, my babies seldom faced diaper rash.
Nonetheless, there are times when a baby may have a late-night diaper mess or develop a rash during a car ride, which can be a bit challenging with cloth diapers.
Certain commercial diaper creams are not suitable for cloth diapers, and some could even nullify the warranty of the diapers. Products containing petroleum jelly or cod liver oil can create a barrier that prevents absorption. After extensive research—and a bit of trial and error—I developed a diaper cream that is safe for cloth diapers and as effective as medicated creams. For added soothing properties, infuse coconut oil with calendula and chamomile flowers beforehand!
Find the recipe for natural diaper rash cream here.
Baby Oil Recipe
Conventional baby oil is typically petroleum-based and often filled with synthetic fragrances. While plain coconut oil works well, infusing oil with herbs incorporates additional soothing properties and accelerates skin healing. Both calendula and chamomile are known for their calming effects on irritated skin, along with their anti-microbial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, and soothing characteristics.
Here’s my favorite recipe for herbal-infused baby oil:
Natural Baby Oil
A straightforward baby oil recipe infused with natural herbs.
Yield: 8 ounces
- Place the herbs in a glass jar and pour the oil over them. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark area, shaking it daily for 4-8 weeks.
- If you’re looking for a faster method, use the stovetop infusion method: combine the herbs and oil in a double boiler over low heat. Gently heat for 1-3 hours, ensuring to replenish water as necessary in the bottom pot.
- Strain out the herbs using cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer.
- Utilize it just like you would regular baby oil.
This recipe is highly soothing and effective for any irritated skin, including eczema!
Soothing Baby Powder
Until recently, most baby powders were tainted with asbestos, which is linked to cancer. Nowadays, while many brands have switched to cornstarch instead of talc, they still incorporate ingredients that aren’t ideal for infants. The classic baby scent commonly found in conventional baby products often comes from harmful synthetic fragrances.
Fortunately, there is now a plethora of excellent choices available for natural baby powders! You can find organic varieties like this organic option from Eraorganics and Little Twig Baby Powder. If you prefer crafting your own, it’s easy and affordable. You can even personalize it with herbs for added advantages.
Find the recipe for homemade baby powder here.
Homemade Baby Wipes
Eighteen years ago, when my eldest was born (time really flies!), I began making my own baby wipes. Like many DIY methods, it proved to be cheaper and healthier than purchasing store-bought wipes. As any parent can attest, constantly needing to clean little bottoms, hands, and faces quickly depletes your supply of wipes!
Since I already laundered cloth diapers several times a week, adding the cloth wipes to the wash was hassle-free. You can also utilize the wipe solution with paper towels for disposable wipes. Not only are cloth wipes more natural and eco-friendly, but they are also cost-effective!
Find the recipe for natural baby wipes here.
Super Smooth Baby Lotion and Lotion Bars
I’ve employed my basic homemade lotion recipe for all of my children, and it’s gentle enough for a baby’s delicate skin. This lotion includes calming ingredients such as shea butter, coconut oil, and vitamin E for that baby-soft touch. For newborns, skip the essential oils and instead infuse the oils with herbs like calendula!
I’ve also recently discovered that homemade lotion bars present an even better option. They provide a protective layer for baby’s sensitive skin while still allowing it to breathe. You can infuse the oil with lavender, chamomile, or calendula; however, the basic lotion bars work wonderfully alone. These bars are particularly beneficial for babies prone to sensitivities or eczema, and they’re easy to craft, long-lasting, and fun for kids to use.
Find the recipe for luxurious lotion here or my lotion bar recipe here. Alternatively, consider trying this baby balm recipe.
Baby Shampoo or Wash
In general, babies don’t require soaps or shampoos, as it’s best to retain the natural oils on their skin. However, there are times when you may need soap, especially after an epic diaper blowout or other messy situations.
If soap is necessary for a sense of cleanliness, I recommend Dr. Bronner’s sensitive skin soap, which can be used for both body wash and shampoo. During my children’s infancy, I generally used a damp cloth for cleaning up messes, often following up with coconut oil or the baby oil mentioned earlier—though this wasn’t needed all that often. For those looking to create their own foaming baby wash, consider the recipe below!
Find the recipe for gentle foaming baby wash here.
Natural Teething/Pain Relief
I steer clear of children’s Tylenol or Motrin for my kids, opting instead for natural remedies to help ease teething discomfort. There are numerous natural options available for managing teething, which can be found in this post.
Chamomile tincture is my go-to for both babies and older children. I generally apply it externally to soothe teething or colic, and for older kids, I use it for issues like sleeplessness, headaches, or stomachaches.
Get the recipe for chamomile tincture here for teething and pain relief.
Baby Vapor Rub
Dealing with stuffy noses in little ones can be challenging for both parents and children. Most available vapor rubs are unsuitable for infants due to the presence of menthol, which can pose respiratory risks. While there are baby-safe versions, many still contain petroleum-derived ingredients, which I prefer to avoid.
You can easily create a safe vapor rub using gentle essential oils for babies. This assists in clearing out mucus and opens up the airways for easier breathing. Check out my recipe for homemade vapor rub, along with natural store-bought alternatives if making your own isn’t feasible.
Find the recipe for natural vapor rub here.
Final Thoughts on Natural Baby Care Recipes
Though my children are growing up quickly, I continue to enjoy crafting homemade baby care recipes for friends. It serves as an easy and budget-friendly approach to caring for their sensitive skin!
What are some of your go-to baby care products? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
