Meta description: Clean up without a fuss with the best baby wipes in 2021. This is how to say good-bye to diaper rash and eliminate irritation on sensitive skin.
Many parents with newborns may wonder how the world functioned before the invention of baby wipes. Although wet wipes have been around for much longer, wipes specifically branded as baby-friendly for safe use on their sensitive skin only came about in the late 1980s. Since then baby wipes have developed into many varieties from scented, unscented, and all-natural to extra thick, refills, and tubs. If you’re a new parent you may be questioning whether the choice of baby wipes really makes a difference. You will find that some brands and types will work better for you and more importantly your baby than others. In this guide, we’ll help you take the guesswork out of choosing the best baby wipes to make clean-ups fast and fuss-free.
What is the Difference Between Baby Wipes and Regular Wet Wipes?
While baby wipes and wet wipes may look very similar they are very different in their composition. Regular wet wipes are intended for cleaning hands, disinfecting, and wiping general dirt or spills. To get the job done efficiently wipes contain chemicals and sometimes alcohol which, while cleaning, also dry out the skin or leave soapy residues.
Baby wipes on the other hand contain very little chemical components or alcohol and are much gentler on the skin. By avoiding the antibacterials, alcohol, and harsh cleansers in regular wet wipes, baby wipes cause fewer diaper rashes, skin irritations, and breakouts. In fact, by changing your baby’s diaper immediately when needed, using natural baby wipes with only safe and mild ingredients, taking daily baths, and drying your baby very well before putting on a clean diaper, rashes can be completely avoidable. Some baby wipes are also designed to be thicker or softer than regular wipes.
Skin irritation from chemicals, dryness, or moisture will encourage rashes or bacterial growth. That is why baby wipes are the safest and healthiest option for your baby.
What to Consider When Choosing Baby Wipes
Scented vs. Unscented
While having scented baby wipes might help you get through nappy duty it may be too harsh for babies with sensitive skin. Some babies can't tolerate fragrance on their diaper area, or anywhere on their skin without breaking out. Unscented wipes are always the safest choice until you are sure your baby can handle the fragrance. For cleaning that is not on your baby’s skin such as wiping utensils, spills, or surfaces, fragranced wipes will be fine.
Travel Wipes
Travel baby wipe packs are great to stash in the side of your bag and just pull out in an emergency. Some varieties are available in a rigid plastic bottle with a flip lid. You can simply pull the wipe that pops out the top. These baby wipe dispensers fit nicely into the side pouch of a bag, almost like a water bottle would, making them very easy to reach when needed. They can also be refilled so you don’t need to purchase a new bottle every time.
Another type of travel wipe comes in a flat plastic pouch with a resealable top. These are less bulky than the containers and can be packed without taking up much space. The sticky seal however loses its stick after a while which can allow air into the packet and cause the wipes to dry out. If you use these packs, make sure they remain properly sealed or keep them in a ziplock bag.
Thickness
Thicker wipes are preferable over thin wipes to make sure no diaper dirt leaks through while you are cleaning. They can also feel a little softer on your baby’s skin.
Specialty Wipes
Some manufacturers have brought out plain water wipes as well as soothing wipes for babies prone to rashes. Natural or organic wipes are also more eco-friendly and biodegradable.
Although these types of specialty products generally cost a little more, they may be worth it if your baby has very sensitive skin or organic living is an important part of your lifestyle.
Flushable Wipes
Although flushable wipes are designed to be flush-friendly, it is still best to avoid flushing wipes as much as possible. Not all septic tanks can handle many wipes being flushed and it could end up requiring a plumber's expertise. Flushable wipes are generally intended for potty-training toddlers and are available in a plastic flip-top box similar to regular baby wipes.
Bulk Baby Wipes
Although buying in bulk is a cheaper option, make sure you have tried the wipes you are purchasing beforehand. Buying a bulk pack of wipes that end up irritating your baby’s skin may just leave you with bulk stock you can’t use. Buy a small pack first to ensure they are a good match.
Baby Wipes FAQ
Q: Do baby wipes expire?
A: Unopened baby wipes can last well over a year when stored in a cool, dry place. They do however lose their moisture over time.
Q: Do WaterWipes expire?
A: The production and expiry of the wipes will be printed on the pack. Once opened the pack should be used within a month. However, if the pack remains unopened it can last a year from the production date when stored in a cool dry place.
Q: Can baby wipes be used to wipe a baby's face?
A: Since baby wipes are designed for sensitive skin, most types can be used on a baby’s face. You may want to stick to a fragrance-free option to minimize sensitivities, and always check the instructions on the package which will state if the product is not suitable for use on the face.