Sofia Martinez
Baby wipes are a convenient product used by parents for diaper changes, cleaning up messy meals, and quick clean-ups on the go. However, it may come as a surprise to many that a large proportion of baby wipes contain plastic. This plastic content, often in the form of polypropylene, polyethylene, and polyester, is not only harmful to the environment but also to babies' delicate skin. The soft texture of baby wipes is achieved through the use of petrochemicals that create polyester, the primary material for baby wet wipes. This polyester is derived from the same petroleum-based materials used to create plastic, resulting in a product that contributes to the growing plastic waste problem. With the potential for health and environmental risks, it is important for parents to be aware of the presence of plastic in baby wipes and to consider alternative options, such as biodegradable and plastic-free wipes or reusable cloth alternatives.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Percentage of baby wipes made from plastic | 90% |
| Materials used to make plastic baby wipes | Polyester, Polypropylene, Polyethylene |
| Harmful chemicals found in plastic baby wipes | BPA, Phthalates, Parabens, Quaternary ammonium compounds (Quats), Benzalkonium chloride |
| Environmental impact of plastic baby wipes | Non-biodegradable, Contribute to environmental pollution and landfills, Spread microplastics |
| Health concerns related to plastic baby wipes | Skin irritation, Allergies, Long-term health issues due to hormone-disrupting chemicals |
| Alternative plastic-free baby wipes | Cheeky Panda (bamboo-based), Natracare (organic cotton), Aqua Wipes (bamboo and plant cellulose) |
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What You'll Learn
Baby wipes are made from plastic
Baby wipes are often made from plastic, with some sources estimating that around 90% of baby wipes contain plastic. These wipes are crafted from similar materials to those used to make plastic water bottles. While the wipe material itself may not be explicitly stated as plastic, the raw materials used to create it are the same. Polyester, a fibre made from petroleum-based materials, is commonly used in the production of baby wipes, and these petroleum-based materials are also used to create plastic. This means that, like single-use plastic water bottles, baby wipes often end up in landfills and oceans, persisting in the environment for hundreds of years.
The plastic content in baby wipes is not limited to the wipes themselves, as they are also frequently packaged in plastic. This contributes to the significant environmental impact of these products, as the plastic waste accumulates in landfills and oceans, breaking down into microplastics. These microplastics can infiltrate drinking water, food sources, and even our bodies, posing potential health risks.
The presence of plastic in baby wipes raises concerns not only for the environment but also for the health of babies. Plastic materials can contain hormone-disrupting chemicals like BPA and phthalates, which can be absorbed through the skin and cause long-term health issues. Additionally, the harsh preservatives and chemicals found in some baby wipes, such as parabens and artificial fragrances, can irritate sensitive skin and cause allergies and respiratory inflammation.
To address these concerns, some companies offer plastic-free alternatives, such as dry wipes or wipes made from sustainable materials like bamboo or organic cotton. These options provide a more natural and eco-friendly approach to baby care, reducing the impact on both the environment and your child's health.
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Plastic baby wipes harm the environment
Plastic baby wipes are harmful to the environment. Firstly, they are not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose, leading to environmental pollution and harm to wildlife. Instead, they break down into microplastics, which can enter the food chain and accumulate in the bodies of animals and humans. These microplastics can cause neurotoxicity, reproductive system toxicity, and carcinogenicity, posing a significant threat to human health and the environment.
Secondly, the production and disposal of plastic baby wipes contribute to the growing problem of plastic waste. They often end up in landfills or as litter, eventually finding their way into oceans and spreading microplastics far and wide. The plastic content in wipes is not limited to the wipe itself, as wet wipes are also wrapped in plastic, further exacerbating the landfill problem.
Additionally, plastic baby wipes can contain harmful chemicals that can be released into the environment. These chemicals, such as quaternary ammonium compounds (quats), can trigger asthma or skin allergies. One particular quat, benzalkonium chloride, has been identified as requiring further safety research. Fragrance formulations are also not always disclosed on labels, leaving consumers unaware of potential endocrine disruptors, carcinogens, allergens, and environmental toxins.
Finally, plastic baby wipes can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in babies, particularly those with newborn or eczema-prone skin. The plastic fibers can be abrasive and damage delicate skin, leading to rashes and other skin conditions.
For these reasons, it is essential to choose plastic-free and biodegradable alternatives to reduce the environmental impact and provide a kinder option for babies' skin.
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Plastic baby wipes harm your baby's skin
Baby wipes are a staple product for parents, used multiple times a day for diaper changes, cleaning up messy meals, and quick clean-ups on the go. However, many baby wipes contain plastic and harsh chemicals that are not only bad for the environment but also for your baby's delicate skin.
The soft texture of baby wipes is often crafted from the same materials used to make plastic water bottles. Polyester, a fiber made from petroleum-based materials, is the primary material for baby wet wipes, with an estimated 90% of baby wipes containing plastic. These wipes are then packaged in plastic, creating a huge landfill problem. While some forms of plastic are recyclable, baby wipes are not, and they often end up in landfills or as litter, ultimately finding their way into the ocean, where they contribute to the spread of microplastics.
The plastics and chemicals found in baby wipes can be absorbed through your baby's skin and build up over time with daily use. Certain chemicals, such as quaternary ammonium compounds (quats), can trigger asthma or skin allergies. One particular quat, benzalkonium chloride, has been identified as requiring further safety research. Fragrances added to masks chemical smells, even in wipes marked as "unscented," can also cause skin allergies and respiratory inflammation.
To avoid the potential harm caused by plastic baby wipes, parents can consider switching to biodegradable and plastic-free alternatives. These wipes are free from harmful chemicals, including preservatives and fragrances, ensuring they are gentle on the baby's skin and preventing irritation or allergic reactions. By choosing biodegradable wipes, parents can contribute to reducing plastic waste and the prevention of microplastics in our oceans and ecosystems.
In addition to choosing plastic-free wipes, parents can also ask themselves if a wipe is necessary for every mess. Reusable cloths or paper towels can be effective alternatives for some situations, reducing the environmental impact and potential harm to the baby's skin.
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Alternatives to plastic baby wipes
It is estimated that around 90% of baby wipes on the market are made from plastic. This is because the primary material used in baby wipes is polyester, which is a fibre made from petroleum-based materials—the same materials used to create plastic.
However, there are many eco-conscious brands that make plastic-free, natural baby wipes. These wipes are made from materials like cotton, paper, and bamboo, and some can even be composted or flushed.
WaterWipes
WaterWipes' baby wipes are plastic-free, composed of 100% viscose, and made with 99.9% ultra-purified water along with fruit extract. WaterWipes' baby wipes are safe for sensitive skin, fragrance-free, and have a ""1" (low hazard) rating from the EWG.
Pura
Pura's baby wipes are plastic-free, biodegradable, and composed of FSC-certified plant fibres. They are made with 99% water and organic aloe vera, are EWG-verified, and vegan and cruelty-free.
Mustela
Mustela's baby wipes are completely plastic-free and made with wood pulp from FSC-certified forests. They use 99% natural ingredients and come in both fragrance-free and scented versions. They have a home composting certification by TÜV Austria.
EcoSoul
EcoSoul's baby wipes are made of bamboo and are BPI-certified compostable. They are also free of toxins, bio-based certified, and designed for babies with sensitive skin.
Little Toes
Little Toes' baby wipes are made from bamboo fibres, along with a patented formula composed of 99% purified water. The wipes are SkinSAFE approved and hypoallergenic.
Caboo
Caboo's baby wipes are MADE SAFE certified and made from renewable bamboo and pulp-based viscose. They are hypoallergenic and made with over 99% naturally derived ingredients.
Terra
Terra's baby wipes are composed of biodegradable bamboo fibre and 99.7% New Zealand water. They are free of plastic and all unwanted ingredients, and come in Pure, Manuka Honey, and Kiwifruit Extract varieties.
Homemade Wipes
Some people choose to make their own baby wipes at home. This can be done by wetting dry wipes with water and storing them in an airtight container. Others add a few drops of castile soap and fractionated coconut oil to the water.
Another option is to use a bidet when at home and save wipes for when you are outside.
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Plastic ingredients in baby wipes
Baby wipes are essential for parents, grandparents, and caregivers who need to change diapers. However, it is important to be aware of the ingredients in these wipes, as they can contain harmful chemicals and plastic that can irritate a baby's sensitive skin and negatively impact the environment.
Polypropylene and PET (polyethylene terephthalate) are the two main types of plastic found in baby wipes. While these materials are not added as ingredients, they are often used in the wipes themselves, essentially acting as "plastic in disguise." PET is commonly found in plastic bottles and polyester, while polypropylene is used in packaging and sometimes in diapers and period care products. Neither type of plastic is biodegradable, and they eventually break down into microplastics, which can contaminate our drinking water, food, and ecosystems.
In addition to the plastic content, baby wipes can also contain harmful chemicals and preservatives. Fragrances, for example, are considered trade secrets, and the specific chemicals used are not always disclosed on labels. These fragrance formulations can include endocrine disruptors, carcinogens, allergens, and environmental toxins. Preservatives are crucial in baby wipes to prevent bacterial and mold growth, but certain preservatives, such as benzalkonium chloride, have been identified as potential triggers for asthma or skin allergies.
The environmental impact of plastic-based baby wipes is significant. Not only do they contribute to landfill waste, but the plastic packaging that houses the wipes further exacerbates the problem. Wet wipes, in particular, have been associated with creating "fatbergs" in sewer systems, leading to clogs and other issues.
To make informed choices, consumers should carefully read labels, avoid products with vague fragrance listings, and opt for plastic-free and chemical-free alternatives. Dry wipes, reusable cloths, or paper towels can be more sustainable and gentle options for cleaning and caring for a baby's sensitive skin.
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