Gentle baby wipes: water wipes and sensitive-skin labels

Reading a baby wipe label

• Fragrance-free: no fragrance ingredients were added. Check the ingredient list for the words fragrance or parfum.
• Alcohol-free: the wipe does not contain alcohol as an ingredient.
• Water wipes: a name for wipes that are mostly water with a small number of other ingredients. Read the actual ingredient list on the package, since formulas differ.
• Sensitive: a marketing category. It tells you what the maker is aiming at, not a promise about your baby's skin.
• The terms hypoallergenic and dermatologist-tested describe what the maker says about the product. They do not tell you how your skin will react.

Flushable claims

Some wipes are labeled flushable, and others say not to flush. Wipes can clog household pipes and sewer systems, and rules differ by place. When in doubt, throw wipes in the trash and follow the label. If you have a septic system, ask your plumber.

Our angle: price per wipe, and wipes per change

Wipe packs come in different counts, sizes and thicknesses, so compare the price per wipe. A thicker wipe can cost more per wipe but take fewer per diaper change, and a thinner one the reverse. Count how many you use in a typical change over a few days, and multiply by the price per wipe to estimate the cost per change. Then compare products on that number.

1. Divide the price by the number of wipes.
2. Count the wipes you use per change for a few days.
3. Multiply to compare the cost per change.

Buying tips

• Buy a small pack before you stock up, since babies and wipes differ.
• Refill tubs and multipacks can lower the price per wipe. Check the unit price.
• Keep the lid closed so wipes do not dry out.
• Check expiry and storage instructions on the package.