How To Make Your Own Reusable Makeup Remover Pads With Old Fabric

In a world increasingly aware of environmental impact, small changes in daily routines can lead to meaningful reductions in waste. One such change is replacing disposable cotton rounds with reusable makeup remover pads made from old fabric. Not only do these DIY pads reduce landfill contributions, but they’re also softer on the skin, more economical over time, and customizable to personal preferences. With just a few simple materials and basic sewing skills—or even none at all—you can create a sustainable alternative that fits seamlessly into your skincare routine.

The average person uses hundreds of disposable cotton rounds each year. Most are made from non-organic cotton or synthetic fibers, often ending up in landfills after a single use. By repurposing fabric scraps from worn-out clothing, towels, or linens, you give new life to materials that might otherwise be discarded. This practice aligns with zero-waste principles and supports mindful consumption without sacrificing effectiveness.

Why Switch to Reusable Makeup Remover Pads?

Switching to reusable pads offers multiple benefits beyond environmental sustainability. These include cost savings, improved skin health, and greater control over material quality.

• Eco-Friendly: Each reusable pad replaces dozens, if not hundreds, of disposable ones over its lifespan.
• Gentle on Skin: Soft fabrics like cotton flannel or bamboo fleece are less abrasive than standard cotton rounds.
• Cheap to Make: Using existing fabric scraps means near-zero production cost.
• Washable & Durable: Most homemade pads withstand 50+ washes when properly cared for.
• Customizable: Choose colors, sizes, and textures based on your preference.

“Textiles are one of the most underutilized resources in household recycling. Repurposing old fabrics into functional items like makeup pads extends their lifecycle and reduces textile waste significantly.” — Dr. Lena Torres, Sustainable Materials Researcher

Tip: Use dark-colored fabrics for the side that contacts your skin to prevent makeup stains from showing through.

Choosing the Right Fabric for Your Pads

The performance of your reusable pads depends largely on the fabric you choose. The ideal material should be absorbent, soft, durable, and safe for facial use. Not all old clothes are suitable—some may be too rough or shed lint excessively.

Natural fibers generally perform better than synthetics because they are more breathable and less likely to irritate sensitive skin. Below is a comparison of common household fabrics and their suitability for makeup removal.

Fabric Type	Absorbency	Softness	Durability	Best For
Cotton Flannel	High	Very Soft	Good	Ideal—excellent balance of texture and absorption
Bamboo Fleece	Very High	Extremely Soft	Excellent	Premium choice—naturally antimicrobial and eco-friendly
Terry Cloth (from old towels)	High	Moderate	Excellent	Great for heavy-duty removal; slightly rougher texture
Regular Cotton T-Shirt Fabric	Moderate	Soft	Fair	Acceptable if layered; may wear faster
Synthetic Blends (Polyester, Nylon)	Low	Variable	Good	Not recommended—can trap bacteria and feel scratchy

Avoid heavily worn areas with thinning threads or pilling. Cut from clean sections of garments—like shirt fronts or towel centers—for best results.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Reusable Makeup Pads

You don’t need advanced sewing skills or special tools to make effective, long-lasting pads. Whether you hand-sew or use a machine, this process takes less than an hour to complete a full set of eight to ten pads.

1. Gather Supplies: Old fabric (preferably cotton or bamboo), scissors, ruler or rotary cutter, pins, thread, needle or sewing machine, and optional fabric marker.
2. Decide on Size: Standard diameter is 3 inches (7.6 cm). Larger pads (3.5\") work well for quick cleansing; smaller ones (2.5\") are good for spot treatment.
3. Cut Fabric Circles: Stack two layers of fabric (for double thickness) and trace a circle using a bowl or template. Cut through both layers simultaneously. Repeat for desired quantity (6–12 pads recommended to start).
4. Pin Layers Together: Align the two circles and secure with pins around the edge to prevent shifting during stitching.
5. Sew Around the Edge: Using a straight or zigzag stitch, sew close to the edge (⅛ inch seam allowance), leaving a 1.5-inch gap unsewn for turning.
6. Turn Right Side Out: Carefully push the fabric through the gap so the stitched side is now on the inside. Use a pencil or chopstick to gently push out the edges.
7. Topstitch (Optional but Recommended): Fold the raw edges of the gap inward and press flat with fingers or iron. Then sew around the entire perimeter about ¼ inch from the edge. This finishes the pad neatly and adds durability.
8. Repeat for All Pads: Continue until all sets are completed.

Tip: If you don’t have a sewing machine, use fabric glue or fusible webbing to bond layers, then reinforce edges with hand whip-stitching.

No-Sew Option for Beginners

If sewing isn't your strength, there’s a no-sew method using knotting techniques similar to rag rugs.

• Cut four identical squares (about 4x4 inches) from two different fabric types (e.g., soft top layer, absorbent backing).
• Stack them precisely and tie knots in each corner using strong thread or embroidery floss.
• Trim excess threads and test for sturdiness.

This version is less polished but still functional and perfect for testing whether you enjoy using reusables before investing time in sewing.

How to Use and Care for Your Homemade Pads

Using reusable pads is straightforward: dampen with your preferred cleanser or micellar water, wipe face as usual, then rinse and store for washing.

For hygiene and longevity, proper care is essential. Unlike disposables, which go straight into the trash, reusable pads require a consistent cleaning routine.

Washing Guidelines

• Rinse used pads immediately under cold water to remove residue.
• Store in a small mesh laundry bag or wet bag between uses (especially if traveling).
• Wash every 2–3 days along with towels or delicates using mild, fragrance-free detergent.
• Avoid fabric softeners—they coat fibers and reduce absorbency.
• Tumble dry low or air-dry flat to preserve shape and prevent fraying.

“Improper laundering is the leading cause of premature wear in reusable cosmetic cloths. Gentle cycles and no softeners keep fibers intact longer.” — Maria Lin, Textile Care Consultant

Lifespan and Replacement

Well-maintained pads typically last 6–12 months with regular use. Signs it’s time to replace them include:

• Frayed or unraveling edges
• Permanent staining despite washing
• Reduced absorbency or lingering odor

When retired, compost natural fiber pads (if free of synthetic thread) or cut into cleaning rags for further use.

Real-Life Example: A Zero-Waste Transition Story

Sophie, a 32-year-old graphic designer from Portland, began making her own makeup pads after watching a documentary on ocean microplastics. She realized her nightly routine generated nearly 400 disposable rounds per year—most ending up contaminated with oil-based cleansers and makeup, rendering them non-recyclable.

She started by cutting six pads from an old organic cotton baby blanket she had stored away. After three weeks of use, she noticed her skin felt less irritated, particularly around the eyes where she previously experienced redness. Encouraged, she expanded her set to twelve and created matching storage pouches from scrap fabric.

“I keep half in my bathroom and half in my overnight bag,” Sophie says. “They’ve paid for themselves in saved cotton rounds within two months. Plus, I love knowing I’m not contributing to single-use waste.”

Her only adjustment was remembering to rinse the pads right after use. To help, she placed a small stainless steel bowl in her sink designated just for soiled pads—a simple system that keeps everything organized.

Checklist: Creating and Maintaining Your Reusable Pads

✅ DIY Reusable Makeup Pad Checklist

• ___ Identify suitable fabric scraps (cotton, bamboo, terry)
• ___ Wash and dry fabric before cutting
• ___ Cut 6–12 pairs of 3-inch circles
• ___ Sew or assemble pads using chosen method
• ___ Perform final inspection for loose threads
• ___ Designate a wet bag or container for used pads
• ___ Add to laundry rotation every few days
• ___ Replace pads when frayed or ineffective

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use old socks or jeans to make pads?

While creative, denim is too stiff and abrasive for facial use, and socks may contain elastic or synthetic blends that irritate skin. Stick to soft, absorbent natural fabrics like cotton flannel, t-shirts, or bamboo for best results.

How many pads do I need for weekly use?

A set of 8–10 pads allows for daily use with rotation for washing. If you remove makeup twice a day or travel frequently, consider expanding to 12–15.

Are reusable pads hygienic?

Yes, as long as they’re rinsed promptly and washed regularly (every 2–3 days). The key is consistency—just like toothbrushes or washcloths, cleanliness depends on routine care.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Making your own reusable makeup remover pads is more than a craft project—it’s a commitment to reducing waste and embracing conscious living. What begins as a small act of resourcefulness can inspire broader changes in how you consume, clean, and care for everyday items. These pads prove that sustainability doesn’t require perfection, just intention.

With minimal effort and zero financial investment, you can create a product that outperforms its disposable counterparts in both function and comfort. And when you run out of old fabric? You’ll find yourself looking at worn clothes differently—not as trash, but as potential.

💬 Ready to start? Dig through your fabric stash today and make your first pair. Share your creations or tips in the comments—your journey could inspire someone else to make the switch!