Wet Wipes: How to Use All the Different Types Available

Wet wipes have come a long way. There’s a wet wipe for just about everything nowadays. And it’s normal to see them just about everywhere: at home, at the grocery store, at the gym, at the office, at restaurants, in diaper bags, even in auto repair shops and garages.

There are ones designed for cleaning your baby’s bottom and your own bottom. Ones for your hands. Ones for your face. Ones for cleaning. Ones for disinfecting. Even ones for your eyeglasses and photography equipment.

In short, disposable wet wipes have become a daily necessity for many people. We’ve compiled a list of our must-have wipes for making your life better.

But first…

What are Wet Wipes?

Disposable wet wipes are moistened pieces of non-woven fabric that are used for cleaning or hygienic purposes. They are also commonly called wet or moist wipes, or towelettes. They can come individually wrapped or in a multi-pack. 

Wipes vary by the material used for the non-woven fabric and the cleansing solution. The wipe itself can be made with materials like bamboo, rayon, or plastic. The cleansing solution also varies by brand and purpose. Fragrance or moisturizing agents may be added to some wipes.

Why are Wet Wipes so Popular?

In a word: convenience. Wet wipes make our lives easier and more pleasant. 

Have you ever experienced a diaper blowout? Wipes to the rescue. 

Ever needed to wash your hands while nowhere near a bathroom? Wipes to the rescue. 

Need to clean up a mess but don’t have paper towels and a bottle of disinfecting spray on hand? Wipes to the rescue.

What are the Most Popular Types of Wet Wipes?

Baby Wipes

Disposable baby wipes are a godsend to parents. They make diaper changes so much easier and more convenient. Baby wipes are specially designed with gentle formulas for sensitive baby skin. They come in scented, unscented, fragrance-free, and sensitive. Formulas and wipe material vary by brand. We recommend using a plant-based wipe with only natural ingredients and purified water, such as Nice 'N CLEAN® BABY Wipes. 

The added benefit to baby wipes is how versatile they are. If you stock up on them and have extra packs left after your baby is potty trained, there are dozens of non-baby-related ways to use them.

Baby Wipe Uses:

• Changing dirty diapers
• Wiping off food on baby’s face and hands
• Cleaning hands and surfaces
• Wiping off toys

Antibacterial Wipes

Skin-safe antibacterial wipes are great in a pinch if you don’t have access to soap and water, but still need clean hands. Antibacterial wipes, like Nice 'N CLEAN® Sani-Hands® Antibacterial Hand Wipes, kill 99.9% of the most common bacteria. Always read the label carefully before use.

We recommend always keeping some in your purse, in your glove compartment, and in your office desk drawer. 

Antibacterial Wipe Uses [*]:

• Cleaning hands before eating
• Cleaning hands after eating

Disinfecting Wipes

Cleaning is one of the most popular uses for wipes. They’re especially popular during cold and flu season and can be helpful against COVID-19, if listed on the Environmental Protection Agency’s list N. Classrooms, gyms, and grocery stores may have disinfecting wipes available for cleaning communal desks and cafeteria tables, shared gym equipment, and shopping carts. 

Disposable disinfectant wipes are convenient because you don’t need a separate roll of paper towels and a bottle of disinfecting solution to achieve the cleanliness you need. Be sure to read and follow the instructions on how long to keep the area wet for it to be effective. It can vary by brand.

Disinfecting Wipe Uses [*]:

• Cleaning hard, nonporous surfaces, such as kitchen counters, especially after handling raw meat (a potable water rinse is required for food contact surfaces)
• Cleaning toilets and bathroom counters that may be exposed to fecal matter
• Cleaning up bodily fluids or blood
• Cleaning up after a sick family member, especially someone with the flu, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Wiping frequently touched items like light switches, door knobs, and remote controls.

Flushable Wipes

Moist toilet tissues and flushable moist wipes are basically baby wipes for adults. Not all moist toilet tissues are flushable. Flushable wipes, like Nice 'N CLEAN® Flushable Wipes, are safe for well-maintained sewers and septic systems. 

In addition to providing a more comfortable and soothing wiping experience, flushable wet wipes are also more effective at cleaning your bottom than dry toilet paper alone. If you haven’t tried them yet, do yourself (and your bum) a favor and get a pack today!

Personal Care and Cosmetic Wipes

Nowadays, you can find wipes that are tailor-made for specific uses, such as facial cleansing cloths, acne treatment pads, and makeup removing wipes. Body wash cloths can be refreshing on a hot summer day, after a sweaty workout, or in lieu of a shower during a camping trip. 

How to Store Wet Wipes

Wet wipes should be stored at room temperature away from extreme heat or cold. Always make sure the lid is properly closed to prevent the wipes from drying out.

How Long Do Wet Wipes Last?

When properly stored, wipes can be good for up to two years. 

Where can I Buy Wet Wipes?

Nice 'N CLEAN® wet wipes are always available to purchase on our website to help make cleaning and personal care more convenient. Our Antibacterial Hand Wipes and Disinfecting Wipes are also available in store at Costco. And our Antibacterial Hand Wipes are available at select locations of CVS, Kroger, and Meijer, as well as online at Amazon and Walmart.

Which types of wet wipes do you always have on hand?