5 Best Biodegradable Wipes

Buying guide for Best biodegradable wipes

Wet wipes have become an essential item for many parents, serving multiple purposes from changing diapers to cleaning sticky hands. However, the environmental impact of conventional wipes, often made from plastic, is significant. This is where biodegradable wipes come in. Crafted from natural materials such as bamboo, wood pulp, and cotton, these wipes decompose relatively quickly, offering a more eco-friendly option.

Moreover, biodegradable wipes are typically formulated with gentle, safe ingredients suitable for sensitive skin. Many of them contain soothing botanical extracts and essential oils, while others are free from fragrances and unnecessary additives.

It’s important to note that not all biodegradable wipes are created equal — some are not organic, and the eco-friendliness of the materials used can vary.

Key Considerations

What Sets Biodegradable Wipes Apart

Traditional wet wipes are usually made from plastic fabrics like polyester or polypropylene and are saturated with cleansing solutions. They are designed for various cleaning tasks, from personal hygiene to household use. In contrast, biodegradable wipes serve the same purposes but are made from natural fibres that break down within weeks, thus reducing landfill waste.

Types of Biodegradable Wipes

• Baby Wipes: These are specifically designed for cleaning up after babies, particularly during diaper changes. Biodegradable baby wipes usually have fewer irritants and additives, making them gentler on delicate skin.

• Household Wipes: Ideal for quick cleaning tasks around the home, biodegradable household wipes are often marketed as eco-friendly alternatives, generally containing fewer toxic ingredients than regular wipes.

• Personal Hygiene Wipes: These can be a great solution while camping or travelling, providing cleansing options for the body, face, and hands. Biodegradable varieties can even be used as toilet paper when camping.

• Feminine Hygiene Wipes: Formulated for intimate use, these wipes are pH-balanced and often free from parabens, ensuring they are non-irritating and safe for sensitive areas.

Materials Used in Biodegradable Wipes

• Bamboo: Highly sustainable and capable of breaking down in less than a month, bamboo wipes are a great eco-friendly choice.

• Cotton: Offering a soft, cloth-like feel, cotton wipes take longer to decompose, so organic options are recommended for toxin-free use.

• Wood Pulp: This material is sourced from trees, processed into a fibre-like substance for wipes.

• Viscose Rayon: Derived from wood pulp, viscose wipes are thick and absorbent while still being biodegradable.

Key Features

Size and Count

Biodegradable wipes come in various sizes ranging from 3 x 3 inches to 7 x 8 inches, typically available in packs containing 10 to 100 sheets. Smaller packs are ideal for travel, while larger counts are better suited for household use and often offer better value.

Packaging

If you’re choosing biodegradable wipes, seek out those with packaging that is free from plastic when possible. Some packaging can even be recycled, supporting a low-waste lifestyle.

Scent

Instead of chemical fragrances, many biodegradable wipes use essential oils and botanical extracts for a pleasant scent that’s less irritating. Ingredients like aloe vera can also provide soothing properties.

Organic Composition

While the wipes themselves may be made from organic materials like cotton, it’s also essential to check whether the botanical ingredients in the solution are organic. This ensures a product free from harmful chemicals and pesticides.

Hypoallergenic Properties

For sensitive skin, select biodegradable wipes labelled as hypoallergenic. Many baby wipes are designed to be gentle, often being alcohol-free and fragrance-free to prevent irritation.

Chemical-Free Formulas

Most biodegradable baby wipes are free from parabens and other common chemicals that can disrupt hormone functions. Many brands take it a step further by excluding additional irritants like chlorine, optical brighteners, and formaldehyde.

Accessories to Consider

• Wipe Warmer: To keep your baby comfortable during changes, consider a wipe warmer that heats wipes to a soothing temperature.

• Diaper Rash Cream: After using wipes, applying a diaper cream can help soothe irritation.

• Diaper Pail: For hygienic disposal, a dedicated diaper pail is essential.

• Diaper Bags: A good diaper bag helps keep all your baby essentials organised, including your wipes.

Price Range

Prices for biodegradable wipes can vary significantly. For baby care and personal hygiene, expect to pay between £0.04 and £0.37 per wipe. Wipes for body or intimate use tend to be on the higher end of this range.

Biodegradable household wipes generally range from £0.04 to £0.11 per wipe, typically coming in larger packs of 100 or more.

Practical Tips

• For a more sustainable option, consider washable wipes made from materials like fleece or cotton. Although effective, they require laundering and may not be as convenient for travel.

• To save money, purchasing biodegradable baby wipes in bulk can often lead to discounts.

• Resealable packaging is convenient for travel, but may lose its stickiness over time, leading to dried-out wipes. Flip-top dispensers are generally more reliable for keeping wipes moist.

• If your baby is prone to rashes, try biodegradable water wipes containing over 99% water for gentle cleaning.

• When introducing a new brand, opt for unscented wipes initially, as some babies may react negatively to scents. Start with smaller packs to ensure compatibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Can biodegradable wipes be flushed?

A. It might seem logical, but flushing biodegradable wipes is not advisable. Despite some being marketed as flushable, they can still cause plumbing issues. It’s safer to dispose of them in the bin or compost, and if you must flush, do so one at a time.

Q. What should I look for when buying biodegradable wipes?

A. Thickness is crucial; thicker wipes offer better reliability, reducing the number needed for each change. While they may be more expensive, they can ultimately save you money.

Q. Are flushable wipes also biodegradable?

A. Not necessarily. Just because a wipe is labelled flushable does not guarantee it will break down quickly. Look for wipes specifically marked as biodegradable or compostable for true eco-friendliness.