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The 12 Best Baby Wipes in Australia for 2026
Updated July 2026
By One Fine Baby Editorial Team
Baby wipes. You will buy them by the box, stash them in every bag you own and somehow still find yourself without one at precisely the wrong moment.
But when you're using something on your baby's skin multiple times a day, choosing the right wipes matters. Some parents want the simplest possible water-based formula for a newborn, others are looking for something thick enough to handle serious nappy situations, while ingredients, fragrance, plastic content, sustainability and price can all play a part.
And despite what the packaging might suggest, baby wipes aren't all that similar.
We've rounded up 12 of the best baby wipes in Australia for 2026, covering everything from newborn and sensitive-skin options to plastic-free, reusable and budget-friendly picks. We've compared what they're made from, how they perform and what makes each one worth considering, so you can find the right wipe for your baby, your budget and the inevitable mess ahead.
The Best Baby Wipes in Australia at a Glance
Short on time? These are our picks for the best baby wipes in Australia, whether you're shopping for a newborn, sensitive skin, something more eco-conscious or simply a great everyday wipe.
Baby wipes | Best for |
|---|---|
Tooshies Baby Wipes | Best eco-friendly baby wipes |
WaterWipes Sensitive+ | Best water wipes for newborns |
Bunjie Baby Wipes | Best probiotic baby wipes |
Here & After Reusable Wipes | Best reusable baby wipes |
Huggies PURE Baby Wipes | Best supermarket baby wipes |
Wotnot Naturals Baby Wipes | Best natural baby wipes |
Thankyou Baby Wipes | Best thick baby wipes |
GAIA Bamboo Baby Wipes | Best Australian-made baby wipes |
Marquise Eco Baby Wipes | Best affordable eco-conscious wipes |
Curash Simply Water Baby Wipes | Best everyday water wipes |
ALDI Mamia Baby Wipes | Best budget baby wipes |
Parent HAX Top N Tail Self-Foaming Wash Cloths | Best for bigger messes and on-the-go clean-ups |
Keep reading for our full reviews and what to consider when choosing the right baby wipes for your baby.
How We Chose the Best Baby Wipes
At One Fine Baby, we get to see an enormous number of baby products up close. Our recommendations draw on products we've encountered and tested through One Fine Baby Expos at ICC Sydney, the Royal Exhibition Building Melbourne and Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, alongside feedback from more than 38,000 Australian parents and input from 200+ exhibiting baby brands.
For this guide, we also considered the things that matter when you're using wipes several times a day: ingredients, softness and thickness, ease of use, suitability for delicate skin, materials, value for money and how readily they're available to Australian parents.
We haven't simply looked for 12 versions of the same thing, either. Our final edit includes options for different needs and budgets, from water-based and plastic-free wipes to reusable alternatives and clever solutions for bigger clean-ups.
As always, no single baby product will be right for every family. Our aim is to help you understand the differences so you can find the option that works best for yours.
The Best Baby Wipes in Australia in 2026
Best for: Eco-friendly baby wipes
Price: From $5.50
Tooshies is one of Australia's leading eco baby brands, offering a range of plant-based baby wipes designed to be gentle on delicate skin while reducing the environmental impact of everyday nappy changes. Whether you're after ultra-gentle water wipes for a newborn, soothing aloe vera and chamomile wipes for everyday use, innovative probiotic wipes or versatile dry wipes, Tooshies has an option to suit every stage. All wipes are made without plastic, alcohol or harsh chemicals, making them a favourite among environmentally conscious Australian families.
Why They're Different
Unlike many conventional baby wipes, Tooshies wipes are made from 100% plant-based fibres and are completely plastic free. The range includes Pure Water Wipes for sensitive skin, Aloe Vera & Chamomile Wipes enriched with natural botanicals, Probiotic Water Wipes designed to help support baby's skin microbiome, and Dry Wipes, which can be used wet or dry depending on your needs. This variety allows parents to choose the right wipe for everything from newborn care to quick clean-ups on the go.
Why Try Them
If you're looking to reduce your family's plastic waste without compromising on performance, Tooshies is an excellent choice. The wipes are soft yet durable, thick enough to tackle messy nappy changes, and gentle enough for frequent use on newborns and babies with sensitive skin. The broad range also means you can stick with one trusted brand as your baby's needs evolve.
Key Features
- Made from 100% plant-based, plastic-free fibres
- Available in Pure Water, Aloe Vera & Chamomile, Probiotic Water and Dry Wipes
- Hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested
- Free from alcohol, parabens, fragrances and harsh chemicals
- Soft, thick and durable for everyday nappy changes and clean-ups
- Vegan and cruelty free
- Suitable for newborns and sensitive skin
- Australian eco-focused brand committed to more sustainable baby care
Price: $8.50 for 60 wipes
A favourite among parents of newborns and babies with sensitive skin, WaterWipes has built its reputation on doing less, not more. Made with 99.9% purified water and a drop of fruit extract, these ultra-gentle wipes are designed to cleanse delicate skin without unnecessary ingredients. The range now includes Sensitive+ Newborn & Baby Wipes for everyday nappy changes and Sensitive+ Baby & Toddler Wipes, featuring a lightly textured cloth to tackle bigger, stickier toddler messes while remaining gentle on skin.
What makes them different?
WaterWipes keeps its ingredient list refreshingly simple, making it one of the go-to choices for newborns, babies with sensitive skin and families looking to minimise exposure to fragrances and harsh additives. The wipes are unscented, free from alcohol, parabens and sulphates, and the latest Sensitive+ range has been redesigned to be softer, thicker and stronger than previous versions for improved cleaning performance.
Why Try Them
If your baby is prone to irritation, eczema or nappy rash, WaterWipes is an excellent first choice. The minimal-ingredient formula helps clean effectively while reducing the likelihood of irritation, and the thicker wipe material means you'll often need fewer wipes per change. As your little one grows, the textured Baby & Toddler Wipes make tackling messy meals, playground adventures and toilet training a little easier.
Key Features
- Made with 99.9% purified water and a drop of fruit extract
- Unscented and free from alcohol, parabens and sulphates
- Suitable for newborns and sensitive skin
- Soft, thick and durable wipe material for effective cleaning
- Dermatologically suitable for delicate skin
Real Customer Reviews
“I have been using these wipes for my son since day 1. Anytime we used other brands he got nappy rash which always made me regret trying something new. These were the best! They’re gentle on skin and I feel confident there's no nasties.” - Bec P.
“These wipes are AMAZING!!! Not only is it nice to know they’re a bit more natural. These wipes remove egg and peanut butter off my toddlers faces with ease. They actually feel wet, while still being strong enough to not break apart when dealing with any stinky mess.” - Ellen S.
Best for: probiotic baby wipes
Price: $7.99 for 80 pack
Australian-owned Bunjie has quickly become a favourite among parents looking for a baby wipe that's gentle on sensitive skin while offering something a little different. Its Probiotic Baby Wipes combine a fragrance-free, plant-based wipe with a unique prebiotic and probiotic complex designed to help support baby's natural skin microbiome. Proudly made in Australia, they're suitable from birth and are ideal for everything from nappy changes to sticky hands and messy faces.
Why They're Different
Bunjie stands out by focusing on skin health as well as cleaning. The wipes feature the brand's MINIBIOTICS® prebiotic and probiotic complex, along with soothing colloidal oats, to help support the skin's natural protective barrier. They're also pH balanced to match baby's skin, made from sustainably sourced plant-based fibres, and are 100% biodegradable, making them a great choice for environmentally conscious families.
Why Try Them
If your baby has sensitive skin or you're looking for an Australian-made alternative to traditional baby wipes, Bunjie is well worth considering. The wipes are soft, thick and durable enough for everyday nappy changes while remaining free from fragrance and a long list of common irritants. They're also a practical option for families wanting a wipe that's kinder to both little skin and the planet.
Key Features
- Australian made and Australian owned
- Made from 100% biodegradable, plant-based fibres
- Contains MINIBIOTICS® prebiotic and probiotic complex
- Enriched with soothing colloidal oats
- pH balanced and microbiome friendly
- Fragrance free, hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested
- Free from more than 1,400 commonly avoided ingredients, including alcohol, parabens, phthalates and sulphates
- Suitable for newborns and sensitive skin
Best for: Reusable baby wipes
Price: $229
For families looking to move away from disposable baby wipes altogether, the Here & After Reusable Cloth Wipes System offers a thoughtful all-in-one alternative. Designed and developed in Australia, the award-winning system includes everything you need to make the switch, from certified organic cotton wipes and hydrating wipes solution to storage containers, wash bags and a travel pouch. It's an ideal option for eco-conscious parents who want to reduce waste without making nappy changes more complicated.
Why They're Different
Unlike reusable wipes that require you to source multiple components separately, Here & After provides a complete system that's ready to use from day one. The organic cotton wipes are paired with a natural hydrating solution, dedicated clean and used-wipe containers, washable mesh bags and a double-pocket travel pouch, making the routine simple whether you're at home or out and about. The brand estimates the system can replace around 14,000 disposable wipes per child, while saving families up to $1,650 over two years.
Why Try Them
If sustainability is a priority, or you're already using cloth nappies, this system makes reusable wipes feel genuinely achievable. The soft organic cotton wipes are gentle on delicate skin, one wipe is often enough for even messy changes, and every component has been designed to simplify washing and storage. Best of all, once your nappy days are over, the wipes and containers can be repurposed for everyday household cleaning, extending their usefulness well beyond babyhood.
Key Features
- Complete reusable cloth wipes system designed in Australia
- Includes 25 GOTS-certified organic cotton cloth wipes
- Comes with clean and messy storage containers, wash bags and a travel wipes bag
- Natural hydrating wipes solution made with therapeutic-grade ingredients
- Reusable wipes can help replace up to 14,000 disposable wipes per child
- Estimated savings of up to $1,650 over two years
- Suitable for use alongside cloth nappies or as a standalone reusable wipes system
- Containers and wipes can be repurposed for household cleaning after the nappy years
Best for: Supermarket baby wipes
Price: $5.50 for 80
A trusted favourite for generations of Australian families, Huggies PURE 99% Purified Water Baby Wipes are designed specifically for newborns and babies with delicate skin. Made with 99% purified water and a small number of baby-friendly ingredients, they provide a gentle yet effective clean for everyday nappy changes, sticky hands and messy faces. Widely available in supermarkets, pharmacies and baby stores, they're an easy choice for parents looking for a reliable everyday wipe.
Why They're Different
Huggies PURE combines a minimalist, water-based formula with the brand's signature thick wipe design. The wipes are made with natural fibres (70% wood pulp fibres) and are dermatologically tested, hypoallergenic and free from added preservatives, fragrance, alcohol, parabens and other ingredients restricted by Kimberly-Clark. They're also endorsed by the Australian College of Midwives, offering extra reassurance for new parents.
Why Try Them
If you're looking for a baby wipe that's gentle enough for newborn skin but thick enough to handle everyday messes, Huggies PURE is an excellent all-rounder. The wipes dispense one at a time, helping reduce waste during changes, while their soft yet durable texture means fewer wipes are often needed for bigger clean-ups. They're particularly well suited to families wanting a supermarket-friendly option that doesn't compromise on skin care.
Key Features
- Made with 99% purified water
- Gentle formula with a splash of baby-friendly ingredients
- Made with 70% natural wood pulp fibres
- Dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic
- Free from added preservatives, fragrance, alcohol and parabens
- Endorsed by the Australian College of Midwives (ACM)
- EZY Pull dispensing helps release one wipe at a time
- Suitable for newborns and babies with delicate or sensitive skin
Best for: natural baby wipes
Price: $7.99
Created by Australian mums, Wotnot Natural Baby Wipes are a long-time favourite for families looking for a gentle, plant-based alternative to conventional baby wipes. Made from 100% bamboo fibres, these biodegradable wipes are designed for newborns and sensitive skin, while being tough enough to tackle everyday nappy changes, messy mealtimes and sticky hands. Available in full-size and travel packs, they're a convenient choice both at home and on the go.
Why They're Different
Wotnot stands out for its simple, naturally derived formula and extra-large wipe size. The wipes are 25% larger than standard baby wipes, meaning one wipe often does the job of two, helping to reduce waste. They're made from ultra-soft bamboo, enriched with certified organic aloe vera and vitamin E, and are completely free from plastic, perfume, alcohol, parabens, chlorine and phenoxyethanol. They also score 100/100 on the Yuka app and are trusted by hospitals, midwives and naturopaths.
Why Try Them
If you're after a premium natural wipe that's kind to both your baby's skin and the environment, Wotnot is an excellent option. The oversized, tear-resistant wipes make cleaning up bigger messes easier, while the gentle formula is suitable from birth and ideal for babies with delicate or sensitive skin. They're also a great choice for parents wanting a plastic-free wipe without compromising on durability.
Key Features
- Made from 100% plant-based bamboo fibres
- Plastic free, biodegradable and compostable
- 25% larger than standard baby wipes
- Enriched with certified organic aloe vera and vitamin E
- Free from perfume, alcohol, parabens, chlorine, phenoxyethanol and other harsh ingredients
- Suitable for newborns and sensitive skin
- Dermatologically tested
- Available in full-size, travel packs and refill options
Best for: thick baby wipes
Price: $6 for 100 wipes
There’s a lot to like about a baby wipe that can handle the messier side of parenthood while also doing a little good in the world. Thankyou Thick Baby Wipes are soft, sturdy and made for everyday clean-ups, from newborn nappy changes to sticky hands and high-chair spills. They’re also part of Thankyou’s broader mission to help end extreme poverty, which gives this everyday essential a little more meaning.
Why They’re Different
These wipes are made with up to 98% natural ingredients and use a gentle, water-based formula designed with sensitive skin in mind. They’re fragrance-free, hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested, while also being free from alcohol, parabens, sulphates, soap and petrochemicals. The wipes are produced using 100% renewable energy, adding another thoughtful detail for families trying to make more considered choices.
Why Try Them
The real appeal is how practical they feel. They’re thick enough to deal with bigger messes without immediately falling apart, yet still soft enough for delicate newborn skin. They’re a strong all-rounder for parents who want a reliable everyday wipe without an overly complicated ingredient list, and the social impact behind the brand is a welcome bonus.
Key Features
- Made with up to 98% natural ingredients
- Gentle, water-based formula
- Fragrance-free and suitable for sensitive skin
- Thick, soft and durable texture
- Hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested
- Free from alcohol, parabens, sulphates, soap and petrochemicals
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Made using 100% renewable energy
- Every purchase supports Thankyou’s mission to help end extreme poverty
Best for: Australian-made water wipes
Price: $5.49 for 70 wipes
GAIA has long been a favourite among Australian parents for its naturally inspired baby skincare, and its Biodegradable Water Wipes are a great extension of that range. Designed for sensitive skin and everyday parenting, these Australian-made wipes pair a gentle, water-rich formula with biodegradable plant fibres, making them a practical choice for families looking to reduce their environmental footprint without compromising on performance.
Why They're Different
While many water wipes focus on minimal ingredients, GAIA adds a little extra care. Alongside purified Australian water, the formula contains ceramides, jojoba oil, Centella Asiatica (Cica) and chamomile to help nourish the skin barrier and soothe delicate skin during every nappy change. The wipes themselves are made from plastic-free, biodegradable plant fibres and are suitable from birth.
Why Try Them
If you're after a wipe that's both gentle on your baby's skin and kinder to the planet, GAIA strikes a nice balance. They're thick enough to handle everyday messes without feeling rough, while the fragrance-free, dermatologically tested formula is ideal for newborns and babies with sensitive or eczema-prone skin. For parents already using GAIA's skincare range, they're an easy addition to the change table.
Key Features
- Australian made and owned
- Made with purified Australian water
- Enriched with ceramides, jojoba oil, Cica and chamomile
- 98.4% naturally derived ingredients
- Thick, soft biodegradable plant-fibre wipes
- Plastic-free and compostable
- Fragrance-free and suitable from birth
- Dermatologically tested and paediatrician approved
- Suitable for sensitive and eczema-prone skin
Best for: everyday wipes
Price: $6.50 for 64 wipes
Marquise has built a loyal following among Australian parents for its thoughtfully designed nappies, and its Eco Water Wipes are just as impressive. Made with just two ingredients and a simple water-based formula, these wipes are designed for delicate skin while also ticking plenty of sustainability boxes. They're a great everyday option for families looking for a gentle, low-tox wipe that doesn't compromise on quality.
Why They're Different
Sometimes less really is more. Marquise Eco Water Wipes contain 99.7% purified water and just one additional ingredient, hydrolysed soy protein, which acts as a natural stabiliser. They're fragrance-free, hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested, while also being made from biodegradable, plant-based materials. As an added bonus, they're 100% Australian owned and manufactured in New Zealand.
Why Try Them
If your priority is a wipe with a minimal ingredient list and plenty of eco credentials, Marquise is an easy recommendation. The wipes are soft yet durable enough for everyday nappy changes, sticky hands and messy mealtimes, and they're free from common irritants like alcohol, parabens, sulphates, phthalates, soap and petrochemicals. They're a particularly good fit for babies with sensitive skin or parents looking to simplify their baby's skincare routine.
Key Features
- Made with 99.7% purified water
- Only two ingredients
- Fragrance-free and hypoallergenic
- Dermatologically tested
- Plant-based and biodegradable
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Free from alcohol, parabens, sulphates, phthalates, soap and petrochemicals
- 100% Australian owned and made in New Zealand
- Suitable for hands, faces and nappy changes
Best for: supermarket water wipes
Price: $6
A staple in many Australian nappy bags, Curash Simply Water Baby Wipes are designed to keep things simple. Made with 99% purified water and a gentle, fragrance-free formula, they're a reliable everyday wipe for newborns through to toddlers. Thick, soft and easy to use, they're just as handy for sticky hands and faces as they are for nappy changes.
Why They're Different
Curash has been caring for babies' skin for more than 35 years, and these wipes reflect that experience. The dermatologist and paediatrician-tested formula is free from soap, alcohol, parabens, methylisothiazolinone (MI) and phenoxyethanol, making it suitable even for delicate newborn skin. The brand has also updated its packaging, with fully recyclable packs and an easy-seal lid made with 30% recycled plastic.
Why Try Them
If you're after a fuss-free water wipe from a trusted Australian baby care brand, Curash is an easy choice. The wipes are thick enough to tackle everyday messes without tearing, while the gentle formula is ideal for frequent use throughout the day. They're also vegan-friendly and suitable for cleaning little hands and faces, making them a versatile addition to your change bag.
Key Features
- Made with 99% purified water
- Suitable for newborns and sensitive skin
- Thick, soft and strong wipe texture
- Dermatologist and paediatrician tested
- Free from soap, alcohol, parabens, MI and phenoxyethanol
- Vegan friendly and cruelty free
- Suitable for hands, faces and nappy changes
- Fully recyclable packaging with an easy-seal lid made from 30% recycled plastic
Best for: budget baby wipes
Price: $1.89 for 80 wipes
When it comes to affordable baby essentials, ALDI's Mamia range has earned a loyal following among Australian families. Its Fragrance Free Baby Wipes are a great example of why. Soft, gentle and budget-friendly, they're designed for everyday nappy changes, sticky fingers and on-the-go clean-ups, making them an easy staple to keep stocked in the change bag.
Why They're Different
For an everyday supermarket wipe, Mamia packs in plenty of skin-friendly features. The wipes are infused with a hypoallergenic, alcohol-free lotion containing natural aloe vera, chamomile and vitamin E to help soothe delicate skin. They're also dermatologically tested and suitable for newborns, giving parents peace of mind without the premium price tag.
Why Try Them
If you're looking for a reliable baby wipe that offers great value for money, Mamia is hard to beat. The soft, generously sized wipes are ideal for everyday use and gentle enough for frequent nappy changes, while the fragrance-free formula is a good option for babies with sensitive skin. They're proof that you don't have to spend a fortune to find a quality wipe that gets the job done.
Key Features
- Fragrance-free formula
- Hypoallergenic and alcohol-free
- Enriched with aloe vera, chamomile and vitamin E
- Dermatologically tested
- Suitable for newborns
- Gentle for everyday nappy changes
- Soft and durable wipe texture
- Excellent value for everyday family use
Price: $15
Best for: Bigger messes and on-the-go clean-ups
Why they're different
When a regular baby wipe isn't quite going to cut it, meet Parent HAX Top N Tail. These clever self-foaming wash cloths are designed to give little ones a proper head-to-toe clean without needing a bath or shower.
Simply add a splash of water, squeeze the cloth to create a foam, wash and towel dry. There's no rinsing required, making them particularly handy for travel, camping, post-daycare clean-ups, messy meals or those evenings when bath time simply isn't happening.
Why we love them
They're formulated with plant-based cleansers alongside glycerin, aloe and chamomile, and are dermatologically tested and designed for sensitive skin. They're also Australian made.
Unlike a traditional wet wipe, the cloth itself is designed to foam and cleanse more thoroughly, so we'd think of these as the heavy-duty option to keep alongside your everyday baby wipes rather than a direct replacement.
What you'll love
- Self-foaming, rinse-free formula
- Just add a small amount of water to activate
- Designed for head-to-toe cleaning
- Dermatologically tested
- Suitable for sensitive skin
- Made in Australia
- 20 cloths per pack
- Available at Coles
What should you look for in baby wipes?
Baby wipes are one of those products you'll use constantly, so the best option is ultimately one that works for your baby's skin, your budget and your lifestyle. Here are a few things worth checking before stocking up.
Ingredients and fragrance
For delicate or sensitive skin, a simpler ingredient list can be a good place to start. Fragrance and some ingredients found in wipes can irritate sensitive skin, so fragrance-free options may be worth considering, particularly if your baby is prone to irritation. If a wipe doesn't agree with your baby's skin, stop using it and try an alternative.
Water content
You'll see plenty of baby wipes advertising formulas containing 99% or more water. A high water percentage can mean a relatively simple formula, but it doesn't automatically make one wipe better than another. Check the complete ingredient list rather than relying on the percentage on the front of the packet.
Wipe thickness and texture
Never underestimate the value of a good, thick wipe when you're dealing with a particularly spectacular nappy change. Thicker or textured wipes can make cleaning easier, while very soft wipes may feel gentler against delicate skin. The sweet spot is a wipe that's soft but strong enough not to tear in your hand.
Sensitive and newborn skin
If you're buying wipes for a newborn or baby with particularly sensitive skin, look for products specifically designed for delicate skin and consider fragrance-free formulas with fewer ingredients. Some babies tolerate almost anything, while others make their preferences known very quickly.
What the wipe is made from
The liquid formula isn't the only thing worth checking. Wipes can be made from plastic-containing fibres, plant-derived materials such as viscose or bamboo, or other blends. If reducing plastic is important to you, look specifically for wipes labelled plastic-free and check exactly what the cloth itself is made from.
Price per wipe
A bigger packet isn't necessarily better value. Compare the price per wipe rather than the packet price, particularly if you're buying in bulk. Also consider how many you actually need per change. A slightly more expensive, thicker wipe that does the job in one or two sheets may go further than a cheaper, thinner alternative.
Disposable or reusable?
Disposable wipes win on convenience, particularly for the nappy bag, daycare and travel. Reusable cloth wipes can reduce the number of single-use products your family goes through and can be washed alongside reusable nappies or other laundry. Plenty of families use both: reusable at home and disposable when they're out.
Ultimately, the best baby wipes are the ones that clean effectively, suit your baby's skin and make the approximately one million nappy changes ahead of you that little bit easier.
FAQs About Baby Wipes in Australia
What are the best baby wipes for newborns?
The best baby wipes for newborns are generally soft, gentle and designed specifically for delicate newborn skin. Many parents prefer fragrance-free wipes with relatively simple formulas, including water-based options. There's no single wipe that's best for every newborn, though, and babies can react differently to ingredients. If you're unsure what to use on a very young baby, particularly if their skin is irritated, ask your midwife, child health nurse, GP or pharmacist.
What are the best baby wipes for sensitive skin?
For sensitive skin, look for fragrance-free baby wipes with a relatively simple ingredient list and avoid products containing ingredients you already know irritate your baby's skin. Australian parenting health guidance notes that fragrance and certain preservatives found in some wipes can aggravate sensitive or eczema-prone skin. If irritation develops or persists, stop using the product and seek advice from a health professional.
Are water wipes better for babies?
Not necessarily. Baby wipes containing 99% or more water can be a good choice for parents looking for a relatively simple formula, but the water percentage alone doesn't tell you whether a wipe will suit your baby. Check the complete ingredient list, whether the wipe contains fragrance and what the cloth itself is made from. The best option is one that cleans effectively without irritating your baby's skin.
Should baby wipes be fragrance-free?
They don't have to be, but fragrance-free baby wipes can be worth considering for newborns and babies with sensitive skin. Fragrance can irritate some children's skin, so choosing an unscented formula removes one potential irritant. "Fragrance-free" doesn't automatically mean a product will suit every baby, however, so it's still worth checking the complete ingredient list and watching for any reaction.
Can you use baby wipes on a newborn?
Yes, many baby wipes are specifically designed for newborn skin, but choose a gentle product and follow the manufacturer's age and usage directions. A soft cloth and water is also a simple option, particularly in the earliest days. Newborn skin can be delicate, so if you notice redness or irritation after introducing a particular wipe, stop using it and speak with your midwife, child health nurse or GP if you're concerned.
Can baby wipes cause nappy rash?
Baby wipes don't necessarily cause nappy rash, but ingredients in some wipes can irritate certain babies' skin or make existing irritation worse. Nappy rash itself has several possible causes, with prolonged contact with a wet or dirty nappy being a major one. Frequent nappy changes, gentle cleaning and keeping the area dry can help. If a particular wipe seems to trigger redness, stop using it and try a gentler alternative.
Are biodegradable baby wipes really biodegradable?
It depends on the product and how it's disposed of. "Biodegradable" doesn't necessarily mean a wipe will quickly break down in landfill, your home compost or the natural environment. Some materials require specific conditions to biodegrade, while other parts of the product may not be biodegradable at all. Look beyond the headline claim and check what the wipe is made from, any certification provided and the manufacturer's disposal instructions.
Can you flush baby wipes down the toilet?
Most baby wipes should go in the bin, not down the toilet. In Australia, check the packaging for compliance with the AS/NZS 5328:2022 Flushable Products Standard before flushing any wipe. Sydney Water specifically advises checking for the flushable icon and Australian Standard because non-flushable wet wipes can contribute to serious sewer blockages. When in doubt, bin it.
