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When you compare adhesive bandages, read the sizes and the materials on the box, check for adhesive and latex information, and compare by cost per bandage in the sizes you use.
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At a glance
Reading the box
Sizes and shapes: boxes list strips, small rounds, knuckle and fingertip shapes, and wide patches, along with dimensions.
Our angle: size matching and the half-used box
A box of assorted bandages looks like a good value, until you find that you only use two of the sizes and the rest expire in a drawer.
When to get medical care
Bandages are for minor cuts and scrapes.
Quick picks
Bamboo adhesive bandages
Check the sizes, the adhesive and the expiration date.
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Reading the box
Sizes and shapes: boxes list strips, small rounds, knuckle and fingertip shapes, and wide patches, along with dimensions. Choose the sizes you use most.
Materials: fabric, plastic or plant-based fabric. Fabric can be more flexible, and some people find it more comfortable. Check what the label says about the material.
Latex-free: the label states whether the product contains latex, which matters if you have a latex allergy.
Sterile packaging: many bandages are individually wrapped. Check that the wrapper is sealed and not damaged.
Adhesive: some people find certain adhesives bother their skin. If the adhesive bothers you, stop using it and ask a doctor.
Water resistance: some boxes state it. Read the directions.
Eco claims: bamboo, plant-based and compostable are claims that deserve a closer look. The FTC's Green Guides ask for clear qualification, and used bandages may not be accepted by composting programs. We do not say that any specific product is compostable.
Our angle: size matching and the half-used box
A box of assorted bandages looks like a good value, until you find that you only use two of the sizes and the rest expire in a drawer. Count what you actually use: in many households it is one or two sizes. Buy a small assorted box first, note which sizes get used, then buy a large box of those. Check the expiration date on the box, since adhesive and sterile packaging age. For price, divide the box price by the number of bandages, and compare in the sizes you use rather than the total count.
Note which sizes you use over a few months.
Divide the price by the number of bandages in those sizes.
Check the expiration date before buying large boxes.
When to get medical care
Bandages are for minor cuts and scrapes. A wound that is deep, will not stop bleeding or seems to be getting worse needs medical care.
If the skin around a bandage becomes painful, very red or swollen, stop using it and ask a doctor.
Keep bandages and wrappers out of the reach of young children.