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Disposable wipes are very convenient
but also quite expensive for something you just throw away. They cost
between £2 - £4 for a pack that would last about a week for one baby (not
newborns!). If you are using washable nappies it makes sense to use
washable wipes too as they can simply be washed with your nappies for no
extra effort. They also allow you to decide what you use on your baby’s
skin, from plain warm water, to a solution containing your favourite
essential oils for cleansing.
For full-time use you would need 30
wipes (cost about £15 for fleece/terry wipes and free
if you cut up an old fleece blanket) so after a few weeks you would
be saving lots of money.
What to use to moisten the wipes.
Water
Plain, warm water is kindest on newborn bottoms and works really well
straight from the tap! If you don’t change your baby next to a tap you
will need to either use a bowl or a spray bottle to moisten the wipes.
Wipes solution
Adding things to the water will enhance the cleansing and antibacterial
qualities of the wipes. You can make up a solution to put in a spray
bottle or use a Tupperware box to soak and store the wipes.
Our favourite recipe is a cup of Camomile tea (made in a Tupperware box)
with a splash of baby oil to make the wipes glide on the skin.
(Non-petroleum based. Edible
oils such as Almond or Sunflower are generally best for use with babies.)
Then a couple of drops of Lavender oil which is
gentle and safe, yet an effective cleanser and
has anti-fungal properties. Once you have made up the solution, squash as
many wipes into the box as you can so that all of the liquid is soaked up.
Then pop the lid on and throw in the change bag!
Whatever you experiment with, make sure the quantities are suitable for a
baby’s delicate skin and test on a small area first. Most solutions will
keep for a couple of days as they will not contain the preservatives of
packet wipes. |
