Choosing Baby Wet Wipes

Wet wipes are a necessity for newborns and young babies. They are used to clean up messes, help prevent diaper rash and eczema in the skin around the nipple area, clean sticky fingers, faces, and other surfaces, and more. Most people use disposable baby wipes, although there are many other options available — including cloth baby wipes and reusable wet wipes that can be kept in the fridge for a fresh and moist clean.

Many brands of baby wet wipes are made with ingredients that are mild on the skin, including some that are fragrance-free and alcohol-free. Some wet wipes are also rated hypoallergenic, which means they are designed to be safe for even the most sensitive baby skin. Other options include wet wipes that are specifically formulated for infants with extra sensitive skin, as well as wet wipes that are infused with aloe or other natural ingredients.

The most important thing to consider when selecting a brand of wet baby wipes is the preservative system. This is what protects the wet wipes from contamination and bacterial growth post-manufacture, and it’s what determines how long the product will keep its freshness. Most disposable baby wipes come with a printed expiration date and are stored in a sealed container to keep them moist. Those that don’t have a strong preservative system can be subject to mold and other bacterial growth when exposed to the environment outside of their packaging, which is why those types of baby wet wipes typically have a shorter shelf life.

Choosing a wet wipe product that is gentle on the skin is vital, especially because the diapered region is constantly in contact with urine and feces. Aside from being free of any irritants, baby wipes should be able to maintain moisture on the skin and support its natural acid mantle to avoid over-drying. The most common surfactants in baby wet wipes include anionic (negatively charged), cationic (positively charged), and non-ionic (no net charge). Those with the least irritation potential are usually non-ionic.

In addition to cleaning baby skin, wet baby wipes can also be useful for other household chores. They can be used to clean up greasy marks on kitchen countertops, and they’re also great for quickly getting rid of streaks on clothing.