Using baby wipes to clean newborns is a common practice for many parents. Baby wipes provide a quick and convenient way to clean delicate newborn skin. However, there are some important considerations when deciding whether to use wipes for your newborn’s bathing routine.
Can You Use Baby Wipes on Newborns?
In general, it is safe to use baby wipes on healthy, full-term newborns. Pediatricians recommend gently cleaning a newborn’s face, hands, genitals, and bottom with water, mild soap and a soft washcloth or cotton balls. Baby wipes can be used to supplement this routine when a full bath is not possible.
Many baby wipes are formulated to be gentle enough for newborn skin. The ingredients are designed to cleanse and moisturize without irritation. However, some wipes contain chemicals, fragrances and preservatives that could be drying or irritating. It’s important to choose a brand made specifically for newborns or sensitive skin.
Benefits of Using Baby Wipes on Newborns
There are some advantages to using baby wipes for newborn care:
- Convenience – Wipes allow for quick cleanups anytime, anywhere. They are useful when you are out and about with baby.
- Portability – Wipes are easy to toss in a diaper bag and require no additional equipment.
- Gentleness – Many wipes are alcohol-free and pH balanced for delicate newborn skin.
- Hygienic – Individually wrapped wipes stay moist and bacteria-free until opened.
Baby wipes are a handy supplement to a newborn’s bathing routine. They allow you to clean and refresh your baby’s skin when a full bath is not possible or convenient.
Potential Risks of Using Wipes on Newborns
While baby wipes offer convenience, there are some potential risks to be aware of:
- Skin irritation – Wipes could contain irritants that disturb the natural pH balance of newborn skin. This can lead to diaper rash.
- Dryness – Some wipes contain alcohol or fragrance that could dry out delicate newborn skin.
- Bacteria – Reusing wipes allows bacteria to grow, especially in the moist environment of diaper changes.
- Chemical exposure – Certain chemicals like parabens and phthalates found in some wipes may be absorbed through the skin.
- Allergic reactions – Ingredients in wipes such as fragrances could cause skin reactions in some babies.
While rare, there is a risk for irritation, infection or allergic reaction when using wipes on newborns. Proper precautions should be taken.
Precautions When Using Wipes on Newborns
If you choose to use baby wipes on your newborn, here are some precautions to take:
- Patch test – Apply a small amount on baby’s inner arm to test for any reaction before general use.
- Choose sensitive skin wipes – Select a brand made for newborns or sensitive skin.
- Avoid fragrances – Choose fragrance-free wipes to prevent skin irritation.
- Check ingredients – Select wipes with short ingredient lists and no harsh chemicals.
- Don’t reuse wipes – Always use a fresh wipe to prevent bacterial growth.
- Discontinue use if irritation occurs – Stop using if baby has redness, rash or dryness.
- Spot clean instead of full bath – Use wipes for spot cleanups only rather than full body cleansing.
- Pat dry after use – Gently pat away any excess moisture left after wiping.
Taking these simple precautions will help ensure safe wipe use and prevent adverse reactions on your newborn’s fragile skin.
How to Choose the Best Wipes for Newborns
With so many baby wipe options on the market, it can be difficult to select the right product for your newborn. Here are a few tips:
- Choose national brands designed for newborns like Huggies or Pampers.
- Look for phrases like “newborn”, “sensitive” or “ultra-gentle” on the label.
- Steer clear of strong perfumes or dyes which can irritate skin.
- Select soft, non-abrasive cloth wipes rather than rough paper versions.
- Avoid alcohol, parabens and phthalates in the ingredients list.
- Read reviews online to choose trusted products other parents recommend.
- Conduct a patch test before first use to check for any skin reaction.
Investing in a high-quality, gentle wipe specifically formulated for newborn skin will give you peace of mind.
How to Use Baby Wipes on Newborns
When using wipes on your newborn, follow these guidelines for proper technique:
- Never use harsh scrubbing or pressure.
- Open the wipe package and remove only one at a time.
- Unfasten the diaper but leave it under baby to catch mess.
- Gently wipe front to back in the diaper area to clean the genitals, bottom and folds of skin.
- Use a fresh wipe to clean hands, face and neck as needed.
- Always use a clean wipe for each stroke. Refold to reveal clean surfaces.
- Discard used wipes immediately to prevent contamination.
- Allow area to air dry fully before re-fastening clean diaper.
- Wash your hands thoroughly after each diaper change.
With this careful technique, you can safely incorporate wipes into your newborn’s hygiene regimen.
How Often Can You Use Wipes on Newborns?
For newborns, wipes are meant to be used for occasional, in-between baths. Here are general guidelines on frequency of use:
- For premature babies, use only once per day maximum.
- During first month, use no more than 2-3 times daily.
- After first month, wipes can be used up to 6-8 times per day.
- Look for signs of skin irritation and discontinue use if redness or rash develop.
- Alternate wipes with washcloth cleansing using water and mild baby soap.
Wipes should not completely replace bathing with soap and water. Aim to give full baths at least 2-3 times per week in the first months to keep skin properly cleansed.
Are Baby Wipes Safe for Newborn Faces?
Many parents are cautious about using wipes on the delicate facial skin. Here are some tips for safely using wipes on newborn faces:
- Choose wipes designed as sensitive enough for faces, usually marked “gentle” on the pack.
- Pull downward lightly from under eyes to cheeks to mouth. Never rub roughly.
- Carefully wipe around nostrils but avoid inserting wipe inside nose.
- Do not use wipes to remove cradle cap on scalp. Use soft brush or cloth.
- Rinse face with warm washcloth after wiping to prevent dryness.
- Look for any redness or irritation as a sign to discontinue use.
With extra care and gentleness, many wipe brands can be used to effectively clean newborn facial skin.
Baby Wipes vs. Washcloths for Newborns
Both wipes and washcloths have pros and cons for newborn care:
| Baby Wipes | Washcloths |
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Ideally, use a combination of wipes for portable cleanups supplemented with water and washcloth full baths at home. This provides convenience as well as safety for your newborn’s skin.
Special Considerations for Premature Babies
For preemies or low birth weight infants, extra care should be taken with wipes:
- Use only water-based wipes to prevent dryness.
- Avoid any wipes with alcohol, fragrance or scent.
- Do not use any cleaning agent besides plain water.
- Pat skin dry instead of rubbing.
- Use extremely gentle pressure and minimal wiping.
- Consider using soft cotton balls and water instead.
- Check for skin integrity issues like open sores before use.
- Stop immediately if any redness or rash appears.
Premature and low birth weight babies have underdeveloped skin barriers. Handle this fragile skin with extreme gentleness and care when cleansing.
Conclusion
Baby wipes can be a helpful addition to your newborn skincare repertoire when chosen mindfully and used correctly. Select unscented, chemical-free wipes designed for sensitive skin. Use proper technique and watch for any signs of redness or irritation. Combining wipes for on-the-go convenience with regular baths and washcloths at home provides a safe approach. With some simple precautions, wipes can be used to gently cleanse newborn skin when a full bath is not possible.