Best Non-Toxic and Biodegradable Baby Wipes

Biodegradable Baby Wipes Products - Best Biodegradable Baby Wipes

When it comes to caring for our little ones, we strive to provide them with the safest and most nurturing environment possible. From their baby food to their skincare, to their baby clothes, baby toys, and every other choice we make for our babies’ well-being – it all feels important. 

One essential item that finds its way into every parent’s diaper bag is baby wipes. However, as awareness of environmental concerns and the potential health hazards associated with certain materials increases, more parents are seeking non-toxic and biodegradable alternatives to traditional baby wipes.

When I was pregnant with my first son five years ago, I embarked on a serious quest to find the best non-toxic and eco-friendly baby wipes available. I was determined to find baby wipes that were gentle on my baby’s delicate skin and Earth-friendly. 

Since then, my babies and I have tested countless brands of biodegradable and reusable baby wipes. In this article, I aim to provide a comprehensive review of the best biodegradable and compostable baby wipes. I considered factors such as ingredients, sustainability, performance, availability, and overall value. 

Allow this guide to assist you in making an informed decision when selecting the perfect baby wipes for your perfect baby!

Best Compostable and Biodegradable Baby Wipes

Why Choose Biodegradable Baby Wipes

In general, biodegradable baby wipes are an eco-friendlier alternative to traditional poly-based baby wipes. When disposed of properly, biodegradable baby wipes will break down over time without leaching harmful microplastics into the environment.

However, the timeframe for biodegradation can vary greatly depending on the specific material and environmental conditions. Some biodegradable materials may require specific conditions, such as temperature and moisture, to facilitate the breakdown process.

Compostable Baby Wipes – What’s the Difference?

On the other hand, “compostable” refers to a material’s ability to undergo complete degradation within a specific timeframe under specific composting conditions. 

Compostable materials typically require conditions, such as proper temperature, moisture, oxygen levels, and microbial activity, found in industrial composting facilities or home composting systems.

Because compostable baby wipes can break down in a home composting system, they are a lower-waste alternative to biodegradable baby wipes.

Reusable Cloth Baby Wipes

But perhaps the most eco-friendly baby wipes of all are washable cloth wipes upcycled from soft, natural, compostable materials. 

Natural materials like cotton can be soft, effective, washable, AND compostable at the end of their usable life.  

I will make sure to clearly note which product recommendations are biodegradable and which are compostable. 

Best Compostable and Biodegradable Baby Wipes

Kinder by Nature Plant-Based Baby Wipes

Jackson Reece Kinder by Nature Water-Based Baby Wipes – 56 Count (Case of 12 packs)
  • Natural water baby wipes ideal for children with sensitive skin and eczema
  • Plastic-free, 100% biodegradable and chlorine free cloth, that compost in just 60 days!
  • More than 99% of the ingredients come from natural vegetable or plant extracts

These wipes are made with 99% purified water and plant-based fibers, free from harmful chemicals, fragrances, alcohol, and parabens. This gentle formulation makes them suitable for sensitive skin, reducing the risk of irritation or discomfort for babies.

In terms of environmental impact, Kinder by Nature demonstrates a commitment to sustainability. These wipes are made from processed wood pulp. Kinder by Nature claims on their website to use excess wood byproducts from regional furniture manufacturers. Because their wipes are made from natural materials, they are 100% compostable in 60 days.

Additionally, Kinder by Nature provides an eco-conscious packaging solution. The wipes come in a recyclable package made from plant-based materials, further reducing the environmental impact.

Pros:

  • Made with 99% purified water and wood pulp fibers, free from harmful chemicals, fragrances, alcohol, and parabens.
  • Suitable for sensitive skin, minimizing the risk of irritation.
  • OK Compost Home Certificate.
  • Amazon Climate Pledge Friendly.
  • The packaging is recyclable.

Cons:

  • Availability may vary depending on location.

Stats:

  • Materials: Wood pulp
  • Ingredients: Aqua, Betaine, Levulinic Acid, Caprylyl / Capryl Glucoside, Potassium Sorbate, Glycerin, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Citrate
  • Type: Compostable in 60 days

Honest Company Clean Conscious Wipes

The Honest Company Clean Conscious Unscented Wipes | Over 99% Water, Compostable, Plant-Based, Baby…
  • Now compostable! Compostable plant-based wipes disintegrate in 8 weeks
  • Gentle and safe for Baby but great for the whole family; Made with over 99% Water; Only 7 transparent ingredients; Recognized by the National Eczema Association with the Seal of Acceptance
  • Multi-use! Ultra durable, extra thick wet wipes are not just great for diaper duty; use on all household surfaces, for a post-workout refresh, to clean your pet’s paws, and wipe down gunked-up toys,…

The Honest Company Clean Conscious Wipes boast a clean ingredient list. Their wipes are made from plant-derived materials and are free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and alcohol. 

In terms of environmental impact, Honest Company has taken strides to ensure their wipes are more eco-friendly. These wipes are certified by TUV Austria as safe for home and industrial composting systems. 

Honest Company claims that when composted, these wipes will break down into the soil within just eight weeks.

Unfortunately, they aren’t completely transparent about what types of “plants” the wipe materials are derived from. They use the ambiguous term “plant-based” instead. 

With that said, the Honest Company is known for its commitment to the environment and has received several certifications and accolades for its sustainability efforts. They are a certified B Corporation, meeting high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.

Pros:

  • Made with plant-derived materials, free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and alcohol.
  • Suitable for sensitive skin, minimizing the risk of irritation.
  • The wipes are made from sustainably harvested plant-based materials.
  • The Honest Company is a certified B Corporation, reflecting their commitment to sustainability.
  • Amazon Climate Pledge Friendly.

Cons:

  • Doesn’t specifically state which “plant-based” materials are used in the making of their wipes.

Stats:

  • Materials: Plant-based fibers
  • Ingredients: 99% Water, Glycerin, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Punica Granatum Juice Extract, Decyl Glucoside, Citric Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate
  • Type: Compostable in 8 weeks

WaterWipes Plastic-Free Textured Clean, Toddler & Baby Wipes

WaterWipes Plastic-Free Textured Clean, Toddler & Baby Wipes, 99.9% Water Based Wipes, Unscented &…
  • PACKAGING MAY VARY: Every package of WaterWipes Textured Clean Wipes still contains the same pure and trusted water-based wipes.
  • PURE, SIMPLE FORMULA: Our fragrance-free Textured Clean baby wipes are clinically proven to clean and help protect baby’s delicate skin with just 3 ingredients: 99.9% purified water plus a drop of…
  • TEXTURED FOR TOUGHER MESSES: As babies grow, so do the messes. The soft, textured surface of water wipes provides added cleaning power to tackle messes on hands, faces and bottoms, making them perfect…

These wipes are designed with a focus on sustainability, utilizing plant-based materials and avoiding harmful chemicals commonly found in traditional wipes.

In terms of environmental impact, WaterWipes has made significant strides in reducing their footprint. The wipes are made from viscose, a renewable plant-based material derived from sustainably grown trees. 

Another standout feature of WaterWipes Plastic-Free Textured Clean is their commitment to using minimal ingredients with just two ingredients – 99.9% water and a drop of fruit extract.

These wipes are free from fragrances, alcohol, parabens, and other potentially irritating substances. This makes WaterWipes a great choice for babies with sensitive skin or those prone to allergies.

Pros:

  • Made with 99.9% water and a drop of fruit extract, ideal for sensitive skin.
  • Plant-based viscose material and plastic-free.
  • Free from harmful chemicals, fragrances, alcohol, and parabens.
  • The company demonstrates a strong commitment to reducing plastic waste and environmental preservation.
  • Competitive pricing compared to other eco-friendly wipe options.

Cons:

  • The texture of the wipes may not be preferred by all users.
  • Availability may vary depending on location.

Stats:

  • Materials: 100% Viscose fiber
  • Ingredients: Water, Fruit extract
  • Type: Biodegradable

Caboo Tree Free Bamboo Baby Wipes

Caboo Tree Free Bamboo Baby Wipes use bamboo fibers as the main material. Bamboo is a highly renewable resource that grows quickly and does not require pesticides or fertilizers. 

This makes these wipes a more sustainable alternative to traditional wipes made from non-renewable materials. Plus, processed bamboo fibers are gentle and soft, making them suitable for sensitive skin and reducing the risk of irritation.

Caboo Tree Free Bamboo Baby Wipes are alcohol free, chlorine free, paraben free, formaldehyde free, phthalates free, and unscented. 

Caboo, the company behind these wipes, is committed to saving trees. Caboo also manufactures paper products like toilet paper and works with the U.S. Forest Service to plant a tree for every pound of toilet paper sold.

Pros:

  • Made with bamboo fibers, a highly renewable and sustainable resource.
  • Bamboo fibers are gentle and soft, suitable for sensitive skin.
  • Caboo works with the U.S. Forest Service to plant a tree for every pound of toilet paper sold.
  • The company strives to minimize their carbon footprint.

Cons:

  • The texture of bamboo fibers may feel different from traditional wipes, which could affect personal preference.

Stats:

  • Materials: Bamboo fibers
  • Ingredients: Aqua, Glycerin, Geogard Ultra, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Vitamin E
  • Type: Biodegradable

How are Traditional Baby Wipes Made?

The most common materials used in traditional baby wipes are polyester and polypropylene. These synthetic fibers provide the wipes with strength, softness, and absorbency. 

Polyester is derived from petroleum, and polypropylene is a plastic polymer. While these materials offer practical benefits, they are not biodegradable and contribute to plastic waste that takes hundreds of years to decompose. 

In addition to synthetic materials, traditional baby wipes contain various chemical ingredients such as fragrance, preservatives, and cleansing agents. 

Fragrances are often added to enhance the scent of the wipes, but they can contain allergens or irritants that may cause skin reactions in some babies. 

Preservatives, such as parabens, are used to prevent bacterial growth in the wipes, but they have been associated with potential health risks. 

Cleansing agents like surfactants and moisturizers are added to clean and moisturize the baby’s skin, but they can also contain chemicals that may be harsh or drying.

It is important to note that the specific materials and ingredients used in traditional baby wipes can vary across brands. However, the general trend of using synthetic materials and chemical additives is widespread in the industry.

(Sources: FDA, Droid Wipes)

Environmental Impact of Traditional Baby Wipes

The use of synthetic materials in these wipes, such as polyester and polypropylene, contributes to the global plastic waste crisis. 

These materials do not readily biodegrade and can persist in the environment for hundreds of years, causing pollution and harm to ecosystems. 

Environmentally Damaging Disposal Options

Another aspect of the environmental impact is the disposal of baby wipes. Since traditional wipes are not biodegradable, they often end up in landfills, where they contribute to the accumulation of plastic waste.

Improper disposal of wet wipes (such as flushing down the toilet) can cause serious sewage clogs (or “fatbergs“) in municipal plumbing systems.

The presence of plastic fibers in the wipes can also have adverse effects on aquatic life when they enter marine environments. (Source: NCBI)

Greenhouse Gas Emissions During Manufacturing Process

Furthermore, the production of traditional baby wipes involves significant energy consumption and carbon emissions. 

The extraction and processing of petroleum-based materials, like polyester, contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and the depletion of natural resources. The manufacturing process also requires water and uses chemicals that can be harmful if not properly managed.

Biodegradable Baby Wipe Comparison Chart

Product Name
Jackson Reece Kinder by Nature Water-Based Baby Wipes – 56 Count (Case of 12 packs)
The Honest Company Clean Conscious Unscented Wipes | Over 99% Water, Compostable, Plant-Based, Baby…
WaterWipes Plastic-Free Textured Clean, Toddler & Baby Wipes, 99.9% Water Based Wipes, Unscented &…
Caboo Tree Free Bamboo Baby Wipes | Naturally Derived Baby Wipes for Sensitive Skin, 8 Resealable…
Product Image
Jackson Reece Kinder by Nature Water-Based Baby Wipes - 56 Count (Case of 12 packs)
The Honest Company Clean Conscious Unscented Wipes | Over 99% Water, Compostable, Plant-Based, Baby...
WaterWipes Plastic-Free Textured Clean, Toddler & Baby Wipes, 99.9% Water Based Wipes, Unscented &...
Caboo Tree Free Bamboo Baby Wipes | Naturally Derived Baby Wipes for Sensitive Skin, 8 Resealable...
Materials
Wood pulp
Plant-based fibers
100% Viscose fiber
Bamboo fibers
Ingredients
Aqua, Betaine, Levulinic Acid, Caprylyl / Capryl Glucoside, Potassium Sorbate, Glycerin, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Citrate
99% Water, Glycerin, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Punica Granatum Juice Extract, Decyl Glucoside, Citric Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate
Water, Fruit extract
Aqua, Glycerin, Geogard Ultra, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Vitamin E
Type
Compostable in 60 days
Compostable in 8 weeks
Biodegradable
Biodegradable
Amazon Price
$45.99
$56.31
$45.99
Product Name
Jackson Reece Kinder by Nature Water-Based Baby Wipes – 56 Count (Case of 12 packs)
Product Image
Jackson Reece Kinder by Nature Water-Based Baby Wipes - 56 Count (Case of 12 packs)
Materials
Wood pulp
Ingredients
Aqua, Betaine, Levulinic Acid, Caprylyl / Capryl Glucoside, Potassium Sorbate, Glycerin, Sodium Levulinate, Sodium Citrate
Type
Compostable in 60 days
Amazon Price
$45.99
Buy Now
Product Name
The Honest Company Clean Conscious Unscented Wipes | Over 99% Water, Compostable, Plant-Based, Baby…
Product Image
The Honest Company Clean Conscious Unscented Wipes | Over 99% Water, Compostable, Plant-Based, Baby...
Materials
Plant-based fibers
Ingredients
99% Water, Glycerin, Chamomilla Recutita (Matricaria) Flower Extract, Cucumis Sativus (Cucumber) Fruit Extract, Glycyrrhiza Glabra (Licorice) Root Extract, Punica Granatum Juice Extract, Decyl Glucoside, Citric Acid, Caprylyl Glycol, Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate, Ethylhexylglycerin, Sodium Benzoate
Type
Compostable in 8 weeks
Amazon Price
$56.31
Buy Now
Product Name
WaterWipes Plastic-Free Textured Clean, Toddler & Baby Wipes, 99.9% Water Based Wipes, Unscented &…
Product Image
WaterWipes Plastic-Free Textured Clean, Toddler & Baby Wipes, 99.9% Water Based Wipes, Unscented &...
Materials
100% Viscose fiber
Ingredients
Water, Fruit extract
Type
Biodegradable
Amazon Price
$45.99
Buy Now
Product Name
Caboo Tree Free Bamboo Baby Wipes | Naturally Derived Baby Wipes for Sensitive Skin, 8 Resealable…
Product Image
Caboo Tree Free Bamboo Baby Wipes | Naturally Derived Baby Wipes for Sensitive Skin, 8 Resealable...
Materials
Bamboo fibers
Ingredients
Aqua, Glycerin, Geogard Ultra, Sodium Citrate, Citric Acid, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Vitamin E
Type
Biodegradable
Amazon Price
Buy Now

FAQ

Are biodegradable wipes plastic-free?

Not all biodegradable wipes are necessarily plastic-free, as the term “biodegradable” refers to the ability of a material to break down naturally over time. Some biodegradable wipes may still contain small amounts of plastic or be made from a blend of materials that include plastic fibers. 

However, there are also biodegradable wipes available on the market that are specifically designed to be plastic-free (like the ones featured in this article). 

These wipes are typically made from plant-based materials, such as bamboo or cellulose fibers, and do not contain any synthetic plastics. It’s important to carefully read the product description or packaging to determine if a biodegradable wipe is also plastic-free.

Are biodegradable wipes recyclable?

In general, no. Wipes soiled with any sort of bio-waste are not recyclable. Used baby wipes should be disposed of as trash or composted per packaging instructions.

How do I dispose of biodegradable baby wipes?

When it comes to disposing of biodegradable baby wipes, it’s important to follow proper disposal guidelines to ensure they have the best chance of breaking down naturally. Here are some recommended steps for disposing of biodegradable baby wipes:

1. Check local guidelines: Research the waste management guidelines specific to your area. Some municipalities have specific instructions for disposing of biodegradable materials, so it’s important to be aware of any regulations or recommendations.

2. Separate and discard: If the biodegradable baby wipes are soiled with fecal matter or other bodily fluids, it’s advisable to separate and discard them in the appropriate waste bin. Do not flush biodegradable wipes down the toilet, as they can still cause clogs in plumbing systems.

3. Composting: If you have access to a composting facility or compost bin, you may be able to compost the biodegradable wipes. However, not all biodegradable wipes are suitable for home composting, so it’s essential to verify the specific guidelines for composting in your area. Some wipes may require industrial composting facilities to break down properly.

4. Landfill as a last resort: If no other options are available, and the wipes are certified as biodegradable, they can be disposed of in the landfill. However, keep in mind that landfills are not the most environmentally friendly option, as the decomposition process is slow and produces greenhouse gasses.

Remember, always read the product packaging or consult the manufacturer’s instructions for specific guidance on the disposal of biodegradable baby wipes. Adhering to proper disposal methods will help maximize their environmental benefits and minimize any potential negative impacts.

How do I compost baby wipes?

First, it’s important to make sure your baby wipes are labeled as “compostable” and not just “biodegradable.” If your wipes are, in fact, compostable, then it’s just a matter of adding them to a home composting system!

Next, determine your composting method: Choose the composting method that suits your situation best:

Home composting: If you have a backyard compost pile or bin, add the shredded baby wipes to the compost along with other organic matter, such as food scraps, yard waste, and other compostable materials. Ensure a proper balance of green (nitrogen-rich) and brown (carbon-rich) materials in your compost to maintain the ideal conditions for decomposition.

Industrial composting: Some compostable baby wipes require industrial composting facilities to break down properly. If this is the case, check with your local waste management facility or composting center to see if they accept compostable wipes in their composting program. If they do, follow their guidelines for drop-off or collection.

Ensure proper composting conditions: Composting requires specific conditions to break down effectively. Ensure that your compost pile or bin has adequate moisture, aeration, and a balanced ratio of green and brown materials. Turn or mix the compost regularly to promote decomposition and ensure that the compost pile reaches the appropriate temperature for optimal breakdown.

Allow for proper composting time: The composting time for baby wipes can vary depending on the specific composition and conditions. It may take several months to a year for some wipes to fully break down. Patience is key when composting.

Remember, not all compostable baby wipes are suitable for home composting. Some may require industrial composting facilities to break down properly. Always check the specific guidelines provided by the manufacturer or consult your local waste management facility for guidance on composting compostable baby wipes in your area.

Best Biodegradable Baby Wipes

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