Baby wipes are one of the most-used products in any household with a newborn — but are they actually safe for your baby's delicate skin? With so many options available, it's worth knowing what to look for and what to avoid.
The Short Answer
Yes — baby wipes are safe for most babies when you choose the right ones. The key is reading the ingredient list and matching the wipe to your baby's skin type.
What Makes a Baby Wipe Safe?
Safe baby wipes share a few common characteristics:
- Fragrance-free: Artificial fragrances are one of the leading causes of skin irritation in babies. Unscented wipes are always the safer choice.
- Alcohol-free: Alcohol dries out skin and can cause stinging, especially on broken or irritated skin.
- pH-balanced: Baby skin has a naturally acidic pH. Wipes formulated to match this help maintain the skin's protective barrier.
- Hypoallergenic: Tested to minimise allergic reactions, especially important for newborns and babies with eczema-prone skin.
- Free from parabens and harsh preservatives: These chemicals can disrupt the skin barrier over time.
Ingredients to Avoid
- Methylisothiazolinone (MI) — a preservative linked to skin sensitisation
- Propylene glycol — can cause irritation in sensitive skin
- Artificial dyes or colours
- Strong fragrances or perfumes
- Alcohol (ethanol or isopropyl alcohol)
Can You Use Baby Wipes on a Newborn's Face?
For the face, use extra caution. Stick to plain warm water and a soft cloth for the first few weeks. After that, fragrance-free, alcohol-free wipes are generally fine for face and hands. Avoid the eye area entirely.
What About Wipes for Nappy Changes?
For nappy changes, wipes need to be effective at cleaning while being gentle enough for repeated use on sensitive skin. Look for wipes with:
- A thick, soft texture that doesn't tear
- Enough moisture to clean thoroughly in one or two wipes
- Soothing ingredients like aloe vera or chamomile extract
Tips for Safe Wipe Use
- Always wipe front to back during nappy changes to prevent infection
- Pat dry rather than rubbing to avoid friction on sensitive skin
- If redness appears, switch to plain water wipes or a warm cloth temporarily
- Store wipes in a sealed pack to prevent them drying out or growing bacteria
- Dispose of wipes in a bin — never flush, even if labelled "flushable"
Our Recommendation
Browse our baby wipes collection for gentle, skin-safe options suitable for newborns and older babies alike. Pair with our diapers range for a complete nappy change routine you can trust.
