Baby Powder "DIY"

Caring for a baby comes with such a big learning curve, and everywhere you look it seems like there’s another “must-have” product being marketed to new parents. So let me help simplify at least one small thing — saving you a little money, an extra errand, and the need for a specialty product by using something you probably already have at home that’s actually healthier for your little one anyway!

Leave the baby powder on the store shelves, and head to your kitchen cupboard instead. If you have arrowroot powder, tapioca starch, or even corn starch at home, you already have an incredibly simple alternative to conventional baby powder!

And honestly? It can barely even be called a DIY.

There’s nothing to make, melt, mix, or measure. Just pour some into a clean shaker bottle or small jar and keep it by the change table so it's handy for everyday use.

These simple starches are wonderful for helping absorb excess moisture in all those irresistably cute little baby folds — rolly thighs, squishy necks, tiny armpits — as well as little bums that can so easily become damp and irritated. Keeping these areas dry can help prevent discomfort and rashes before they even begin.

Beyond being incredibly simple, one of my favourite things about this swap is how much healthier it is for your little one too.

Many conventional baby powders come with long ingredient lists, fragrances, preservatives, or unnecessary additives. But arrowroot powder, tapioca starch, and corn starch are simply… what they are. Familiar pantry staples that have been around forever.

Simple. Gentle. Affordable. Multi-purpose.

Which is best?

Of the three, arrowroot powder is often the favourite for personal care use because it has such a soft, silky feel on the skin. Arrowroot powder and tapioca starch have the most beneficial qualities for skin, while corn starch is more of a neutral option (this is what I used with my kiddos before I knew about the other two).

There’s really no need to overcomplicate it — the best option can definitely be the one you already have on hand.

Here's a few simple tips:

• Keep the starch in a dry shaker container for easy use

• Apply to clean skin

• A little goes a long way

• Avoid creating powder clouds near your baby’s face

  
  

Sometimes the most helpful things aren’t fancy at all. They’re the simple little habits and swaps that make everyday life feel easier, gentler, and a bit more intentional. This was one of my favourites when my kiddos were small!

Want another simple swap?

If you'd like to hear about another baby care DIY that will definitely save you money and a significant amount of garbage, check out my Cloth Wipes Solution DIY (for every family, not just those who use cloth diapers!). And don't worry, it only takes about 5 minutes every few weeks to make! You can have a read here.

(As always, other than links to my own products, the links included in this post will bring you to more information, not where to buy a product.)