A baby's skin is delicate and sensitive, making it important to use baby wipes that are gentle and hypoallergenic. By design, baby wipes help to remove organic materials from the skin and also serve as a moisturizer. But how many baby wipes do you actually need in a month? That can vary depending on the age of your child and their bathroom habits, but on average, most parents go through about six to eight packs of baby wipes per month. Remember that baby wipes are best used while warm, that's why you also need to buy a baby wipe warmer.
What Are Baby Wipes?
Baby wipes are soft piece of paper that has been specially formulated to clean and moisturize a baby's delicate skin. They often contain gentle ingredients like aloe vera and chamomile and can be used for everything from diaper changes to cleaning up spit-up or messes during mealtime.
Baby Wipe Ingredients
Do you know that not all baby wipes out there are good? This is because some manufacturers use ingredients that are not baby friendly, like parabens and fragrances which can irritate a baby's skin. So it's important to check the ingredient list before purchasing baby wipes. Some natural, gentle options include WaterWipes and Bambo Nature.
Some of the most common toxic ingredients that are found in baby wipes include these 5:
1. Methylisothiazolinone (MIT)
This is a preservative that is often used in place of parabens, but it can cause skin irritation and allergies. Ordinarily, this preservative helps to suppress the activities of fungi and bacteria and reduced the probability of getting a skin infection. However, due to the potential side effects, it's important to look for baby wipes that are free of MIT.
2. Fragrance
Baby wipes often come with added fragrances, but these scents can cause irritation and inflammation in babies. Fragrances also often contain phthalates, chemicals that have been linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive issues, and even cancer. Avoid fragranced baby wipes and opt for fragrance-free options.
3. Phenoxyethanol
This is a preservative commonly used in cosmetics and skincare products, but it can cause irritation, neurotoxicity, organ system toxicity, and even damage to the reproductive system. Look for baby wipes that are free of phenoxyethanol.
4. Propylene glycol
This is a type of alcohol that can cause skin irritation and allergies, as well as organ system toxicity. Opt for baby wipes that do not contain propylene glycol.
5. Parabens
Parabens are commonly used as preservatives in skincare and beauty products, but they have been linked to endocrine disruption and even cancer. Avoid baby wipes with parabens and opt for those that are labelled as paraben-free.
What Ingredients Do the Best Baby Wipes Have?
To get the best baby wipes, consider buying them from reputable sellers such as Motherly Online. This seller stocks baby wipes that are safe, affordable and which are made from the best material. There are certain ingredients that are used to make the best baby wipes and among them include the following.
1. Purified water
This ingredient helps to clean and moisturize the skin without leaving a sticky residue.
2. Aloe Vera extract
This natural ingredient is known for its soothing and calming properties, making it great for sensitive baby skin.
3. Vitamin E
This antioxidant helps to nourish and protect a baby's delicate skin. Vitamin E is known to offer many benefits that include moisturizing, anti-aging, and healing properties.
4. Chamomile extract
This natural ingredient is known for its calming properties and can help to soothe and soften a baby's skin.
5. Citric acid or sodium citrate
These ingredients help to balance the pH levels of the wipes and keep them from becoming too alkaline, which can irritate a baby's skin.
6. Sodium Benzoate
This ingredient acts as a preservative to ensure that the wipes stay fresh. Look for baby wipes that use gentle, natural preservatives like sodium benzoate instead of potentially harmful ones like parabens.
7. Polyaminopropyl Biguanide
This is another high-quality component that is used to make baby wipes as a preservative. It is also gentle and effective in keeping the wipes free from bacteria and other harmful microorganisms.
How Many Baby Wipes Do I Need Per Month?
There is no specific answer to this question as it can vary depending on the age and needs of your baby, frequency of diaper changes, and personal preferences. A good starting point is to have approximately 1-2 packs (72-144 wipes) on hand at any given time. This will ensure that you always have enough and can easily restock when needed.
It's also important to note that some babies may have sensitive skin and may do better with a specific brand or type of baby wipe. It's always a good idea to have a few different options on hand in case one doesn't work for your little one.
When shopping for baby wipes, don't forget to check out subscription options which can often save you money and ensure that you always have a fresh supply on hand.
Remember, it's always best to properly dispose of used baby wipes in the trash rather than flushing them down the toilet to avoid potential plumbing issues.
Are baby Wipes Safe For Newborns?
In general, baby wipes are safe for use on newborns as long as they do not contain any potentially harmful ingredients and the baby does not have a known sensitivity or allergy to a specific component. It's always important to check the label and opt for gentle, natural options that are free of chemicals like phthalates and parabens. Moreover, be sure to properly dispose of used wipes in the trash instead of flushing them down the toilet. If you have any concerns or questions, consult with your paediatrician.
Overall, the best way to ensure that baby wipes are safe for your newborn is to opt for high-quality options and use them as directed. This will help keep their delicate skin clean and comfortable while also minimizing any potential risks.
How To Get The Best Results When Using Baby Wipes
- Make sure to properly close the packaging after each use to prevent the wipes from drying out.
- Always follow the directions for proper usage and disposal.
- For a more thorough clean, consider using baby wipes in combination with warm water and gentle soap during diaper changes or baths.
- If your baby has sensitive skin, test a small area before using the wipes on larger areas of their body and discontinue use if there is any irritation.
- If you notice any unusual reactions or discomfort after using baby wipes, stop use immediately and consult with your paediatrician.
Overall, using high-quality baby wipes as directed and being aware of your baby's individual needs can help ensure the best results in terms of cleanliness and comfort.
The Principles of Buying Baby Wipes
When buying baby wipes, you should consider the following:
1. The packaging
Choose individual packs or refillable dispensers that are easy to use and prevent the wipes from drying out.
2. The ingredients
Opt for natural, gentle options without potentially harmful chemicals like phthalates and parabens.
3. The sensitivity of your baby's skin
Consider trying a few different brands or types to find the best option for your little one.
4. Any allergies
If your baby has known allergies, make sure to check the ingredient list and consult with your paediatrician before using a new brand or type of wipe.
5. Value
Look for subscription options or bulk buying opportunities to save money while still ensuring a fresh supply of wipes.
Overall, considering these factors can help you choose the best baby wipes for your little one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about baby wipes:
1. Can baby wipes be used on adults?
Yes, baby wipes can be used on adults for gentle cleaning, but they are not meant for heavy-duty clean-up or personal hygiene tasks such as wiping down after using the bathroom.
2. How often should I change my baby's diaper and use a new baby wipe?
It is recommended to change a baby's diaper every 2-3 hours or whenever it becomes soiled. A fresh baby wipe should be used for each diaper change.
3. Can I use baby wipes on my newborn's face and hands?
Yes, baby wipes can typically be safely used on a newborn's face and hands, but always check the label to make sure they are appropriate for a baby's delicate skin.
4. Are baby wipes safe to use on pets?
Baby wipes can be used on pets, but it's important to make sure that they do not contain any ingredients that may be harmful to animals (such as fragrances or alcohol). It's best to check with your veterinarian before using baby wipes on your pet.
5. Can baby wipes be used as a makeup remover?
Baby wipes can be used as a gentle option for removing makeup, but they may not be effective in completely removing stubborn eye makeup or heavy foundation.
6. Can baby wipes expire?
Yes, baby wipes do have a shelf life and can expire. It's important to check the expiration date on the package before using them.
7. Are baby wipes flushable?
Some baby wipes may claim to be flushable, but it is not recommended to flush them as they can cause plumbing issues. Used baby wipes should always be disposed of in the trash.
8. Can baby wipes be reused?
It is not recommended to reuse baby wipes, as they are meant for single use and may not effectively clean after being used once.
9. Can baby wipes cause a rash?
Baby wipes can potentially cause a diaper rash if they contain ingredients that irritate a baby's sensitive skin. It's important to choose a wipe that is appropriate for your baby's skin and to make sure to thoroughly clean their diaper area during each change.
10. Can baby wipes be used as toilet paper?
Baby wipes can be used in place of toilet paper, but they should still be disposed of in the trash rather than flushed down the toilet to avoid plumbing issues. It is also important to note that baby wipes may not be as effective or comfortable as traditional toilet paper.
Let's Wrap it up
Overall, baby wipes can be a convenient and gentle option for cleaning up messes, but it's important to keep in mind their proper usage and disposal of them. It's also important to consider your baby's sensitive skin when choosing a baby wipe and to properly clean their diaper area during each change to avoid potential diaper rash. And don't forget to check the expiration date before using them! In terms of how many babies wipes you may need per month, it will ultimately depend on the frequency of your baby's diaper changes and if you use them for other purposes. It may be helpful to have a steady supply on hand and consider subscription options to ensure that you always have a fresh supply.
