Best Baby Wipes

Baby wipes are like diapers: They’re one of those items you know you *need* as a new parent, but they’re not always top of the registry list (or top of mind) when purchasing products for your little one. While it might seem like baby wipes are all the same (they just need to be wet and hold together while you tackle your next diaper change, right?) some wipes might be too wet, too dry, too fragile, too rough or too irritating for your baby.

“You will change countless diapers in the first two years of life and use thousands of wipes — the cumulative effect on your baby’s skin is huge,” says Charisma Garcia, M.D., a pediatrician at Texas Children’s Health Plan and The Center for Children and Women.

With a seemingly endless amount of options to choose from, shopping for a baby wipe brand can be overwhelming. Here, how to pick the best baby wipes for your little one, plus our top picks on the market.

Choosing the best baby wipes

These are a few features you may want to keep in mind when selecting baby wipes.

• Packaging. Travel-sized packs might be convenient for your diaper bag, but they can also be more expensive. One way to save? Hang on to reusable plastic containers and restock them with baby wipes that you purchase in bulk.
• Ingredients. In general, baby wipes with fewer ingredients are less likely to irritate baby's skin, says Dr. Garcia. If baby has very sensitive skin, look for hypoallergenic wipes without chemicals, dyes or fragrances.
• Thickness. “The thicker the wipe, the fewer passes across the skin you will need,” says Dr. Garcia. “There will be less rubbing and inflammation on delicate skin, less environmental waste and often a more luxurious feel.” Test them out on yourself first. Does it feel gentle, or scratchy and abrasive?
• Cost. “Calculate your cost per wipe and go with the most affordable option that works for your baby and your family’s budget,” suggests Dr. Garcia. Once you find what works? Buy in bulk, use refillable packaging and stock up on those those coupons to save even more.

What to keep in mind when using baby wipes

• Don’t flush them! The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) notes that most baby wipes have the potential to cause problems with your plumbing.
• Use them sparingly. Not every diaper change requires wipes, according to the AAP, since urine rarely irritates the skin and today’s diapers are more absorbent than ever. Using wipes for poop clean-ups only can help you save money over time.
• Reassess if baby has diaper rash. If your little one develops diaper rash, you may want to try switching brands or forego baby wipes entirely; instead, clean baby with cotton balls or a washcloth soaked in warm water.