Kirkland Baby Wipes: Fragrance-Free Or Not?

Kirkland baby wipes are fragrance-free and made with 70% Tencel fibre, a naturally soft and environmentally friendly fibre derived from wood pulp. The wipes are ideal for babies with delicate skin as they are hypoallergenic and free from alcohol, chlorine, parabens, and other toxic chemicals. They are also enriched with aloe and vitamin E, resulting in a silky smooth and super-strong wipe.

Ingredients and their effects

The Kirkland Signature Baby Wipes are hypoallergenic, fragrance-free, and alcohol-free. They are made from Tencel, a type of rayon derived from wood pulp and created through the environmentally-friendly NMMO process. Tencel is a registered trademark of Lenzing A.G.

The ingredients in the wipes are:

• Water
• Coco glucoside
• Xanthan gum
• Glyceryl oleate
• Phenoxyethanol
• Sodium benzoate
• Tetrasodium glutamate diacetate
• Citric acid
• Sodium citrate

The preservatives used in the wipes are phenoxyethanol and sodium benzoate. Phenoxyethanol is a broad-spectrum preservative that prevents the growth of mould and bacteria in water-based products. It is rated as a 5 on a scale of 0-10, with 0 being the least toxic. While it is not a common allergen or irritant, it is possible for it to irritate the skin of some adults and babies, even in low amounts. It is also produced through a reaction of carcinogenic ethylene oxide with corrosive phenol, which could lead to residue contamination in the final product.

Sodium benzoate is generally considered safer and is given a rating of 3 out of 10. However, according to the CIR panel report, sodium benzoate can cause an allergic reaction if used in concentrations over 5%.

The other ingredients in the wipes and their effects are:

• Coco glucoside: One of the safest surfactants, rarely causing a reaction. Rated at 2 out of 10 for toxicity.
• Xanthan gum: A viscosity agent that makes the lotion thicker. Does not affect the gut microbiome when applied topically. Rated at 1 for toxicity.
• Glyceryl oleate: An emulsifier that helps mix water-based and oil-based ingredients. Rated at 2 for toxicity.
• Tetrasodium glutamate diacetate: A chelating agent that improves the stability and appearance of the wipes. Rated at 3 for toxicity.
• Citric acid: Adjusts the acidity of the wipes to make them more compatible with a baby's skin. Can irritate the skin in larger quantities. Rated at 1 for toxicity.
• Sodium citrate: Helps adjust acidity in the wipes. Rated at 1 for toxicity.

Overall, while the ingredients in Kirkland Signature Baby Wipes have improved over the years, with the removal of formaldehyde-releasing preservatives and potentially allergenic propylene glycol, there are still some concerns about the potential for skin irritation from the preservatives used.

Comparison to other brands

When it comes to baby wipes, there are several brands to choose from, and it can be challenging to decide which one is best. Here is a comparison of Kirkland baby wipes with other popular brands in the market:

Huggies Natural Care

Huggies Natural Care baby wipes are a popular choice and are often recommended for babies with sensitive skin. They are textured with grooves and lines, which makes them effective in cleaning up messes. In terms of size, Huggies wipes measure about 6 ¾” X 7 ¼”, which is slightly smaller than Kirkland wipes. Price-wise, Huggies is one of the more expensive options, with a box of 448 wipes costing around $27.99.

Pampers Natural Clean

Pampers Natural Clean wipes are another well-known brand. Their wipes are similar in size to Huggies, measuring about 6 ¾” X 7 ¼”. However, some users have found these wipes to be too dry and not as effective in cleaning. A box of 504 Pampers wipes costs around $15.99, but they also offer coupons that can bring down the price.

Parent's Choice Fragrance-Free

Parent's Choice Fragrance-Free wipes are a more affordable option, with a box of 500 wipes costing around $18.58. However, they are the smallest in size among the brands mentioned, and some users have found them to be less durable and prone to tearing easily.

Costco Baby Wipes

Costco offers its own brand of baby wipes, the Kirkland Signature Ultra Soft wipes. These wipes are a good choice for those looking for a larger wipe, as they measure about 7” X 9”. They are also one of the most affordable options, with a box of 900 wipes priced at $26.99 or less. However, some users have mentioned that the individual packages of these wipes are bulky and may not fit easily into a diaper bag.

In conclusion, when choosing a brand of baby wipes, it is essential to consider factors such as size, durability, wetness, and price. While personal preferences may vary, Kirkland baby wipes offer a good combination of these factors and are often favoured for their larger size and affordable price.

Affordability

Kirkland baby wipes are highly regarded for their quality and affordability. They offer excellent value for money, with their large size and thickness providing better coverage and durability. The wipes are also competitively priced, making them a favourite among parents.

Compared to other leading brands, Kirkland wipes are significantly more affordable while maintaining high quality. For example, the Kirkland Signature Baby Wipes Fragrance Free, 900-count box is available at a competitive price from Costco, although the exact price may vary depending on your local warehouse.

On Amazon, the Kirkland Baby Wipes Unscented, 100 Count (Pack of 9) is priced at $36.19, which is a good deal considering the quality and quantity of wipes.

Customers who have used the product have also commented on its affordability, with one review stating:

> "I used to buy baby wipes by the individual box but these are such a great value. I can't believe the price."

Another review mentions:

> "Great wipes and great value."

The combination of quality, quantity, and price makes Kirkland baby wipes a popular and economical choice for parents.

Texture and moisture

The texture of Kirkland baby wipes is described as silky smooth, soft, strong, durable, thick, and hypoallergenic. They are made with 70% Tencel fibre, a naturally soft and environmentally friendly fibre made from 100% renewable resources. The wipes are also free from alcohol, chlorine, parabens, lint, and phthalates.

One reviewer notes that the Kirkland wipes are "super duper moist", while another says they are "not too damp" and "not too dry". The wipes are suitable for sensitive skin and are also used by adults for makeup removal and personal hygiene.

The moisture of the wipes is enhanced by ingredients such as aloe and vitamin E, which are known for their skin-soothing properties. The liquid formula is 99% naturally derived and also contains chamomile.

Kirkland baby wipes are available in packs of 900, with each individual package containing 100 wipes in a thick matte plastic bag with a flip-top lid.

Fragrance

Kirkland Signature Baby Wipes offer a fragrance-free option, which is ideal for babies with sensitive skin or those who prefer unscented products. This version of the wipes contains no added fragrances, providing a gentle and neutral cleaning experience. This option is often sought after by parents who want to avoid any potential irritants for their little ones.

Scented Version:

On the other hand, Kirkland also offers scented baby wipes for those who prefer a hint of fragrance during diaper changes. The scented version contains a mild fragrance that is designed to be gentle and pleasing. It's important to note that even in the scented option, Kirkland prioritizes the safety and comfort of babies' delicate skin.

Impact of Fragrance:

Other Considerations:

When it comes to fragrance, it's worth noting that some babies may have specific allergies or sensitivities to certain ingredients. It's always a good idea to review the ingredient list and choose products that are hypoallergenic and free from known irritants. Additionally, some caregivers may have their own preferences or allergies, so it's important to consider the needs of both the baby and the caregiver.

In conclusion, fragrance plays a significant role in the overall experience of using baby wipes. While some prefer the added scent, others opt for fragrance-free options to maintain a neutral and potentially safer environment for their little ones. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of each baby's skin.

Frequently asked questions