Simple DIY: How to Make Reusable Makeup Remover Pads

We are always looking for ways to be more eco-friendly. Over the years we’ve shared plenty of simple family-friendly green living projects to take on. From making your own cloth napkins to keeping the draft out with a DIY draft stopper, we are always looking for creative eco-projects.

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So, when I realized that we were using a lot of those disposable cotton pads to remove makeup, I thought we could definitely make our own. I have 2 teenage daughters and make-up is part of our lives. At the end of the day, the makeup has to come off and those cotton pads are super handy.

Fortunately, it is easy to make reusable make remover pads from scraps of fabric that you probably already have at home. I used scraps from a baby quilt I made years ago… a good thing I save all those fabric scraps!

How to Make Reusable Makeup Remover Pads

1/4 meter of 100% cotton flannel fabric – scraps will do
3″ x 3″ post-it note or print off our reusable makeup remover pads template
thread, scissors
iron
sewing machine

The first step in any sewing project is to wash the fabric. Wash and dry the flannel fabric before starting the sewing. It’s important to use 100% cotton fabric because you don’t want to scratch your skin. I found that the bamboo fabric was a little too scratchy for my sensitive skin. And, synthetic fabrics might feel soft, but they will more than likely scratch. Also, remember that we are making these to be more eco-friendly and it makes sense to keep things as eco-friendly as possible. If you can find organic fabric, go for it!

Okay, now that the fabric is clean and dry it is time to cut out the squares. I simply used a standard (3″ x 3″) post-it note as my template. However, if you don’t have a post-it note go ahead and print off our reusable makeup remover pads template.

Fold the fabric in half, with the right sides together. Pin the template to the fabric or stick the note to the fabric. Cut out 7 squares (double-sided, so actually 14 squares).

Once you have all of the squares cut out, it’s time to sew them. Use a simple straight stitch around the edge of the square, make sure to leave an opening where you can turn the square right way around.

When the stitching is done, trim the corners and get to work turning the squares around. This is the most finicky part of the project. You can use a chopstick or a bone folder to push the corners of the squares. When all the squares are turned the right way around, use a warm iron to press the squares. Make sure to turn in the spot where the opening is.

The final step in making the squares is using a simple straight stitch around the edge of the squares. This will close up the opening and will add some structure to your squares. Done!

Now, you can totally stop here and use the reusable makeup pads. Pop them into a cute dish on your counter. Use them. To clean them place them inside a delicates laundry bag. We made 14 so that you should only need to wash them once a week.