In short: For sensitive baby skin, choose wipes that are alcohol-free, high in water and with a short ingredient list – ideally fragrance-free. The NHS recommends cleaning at nappy changes with water or fragrance-free, alcohol-free wipes. At home, water and cotton wool can be your first choice; wipes are most practical when you’re out.
Author: Eva Birsa, mum and co-founder of Evitas · Updated: 27 September 2026
Water or baby wipes?
For washing a newborn, the NHS suggests lukewarm water and cotton wool, with a mild baby cleanser if needed. At nappy changes you can clean with water or with fragrance-free, alcohol-free wipes. In practice most parents mix both: water at home, wipes on the go, at night or for quick changes.
How to choose wipes: checklist
| Feature | Why it matters | How to check |
|---|---|---|
| Alcohol-free | The NHS recommends alcohol-free wipes for nappy changes | Pack label; no “Alcohol denat.” in the INCI list |
| Fragrance-free | The NHS recommends fragrance-free wipes for nappy changes | No “Parfum” or “Fragrance” in the INCI list |
| High water content | Fewer other ingredients on the skin | Water percentage on the pack |
| Dermatologically tested, hypoallergenic | The maker has checked skin tolerance | Pack label |
| Good seal | Wipes don’t dry out | Flip lid or resealable sticker |
Violeta Water Care: what the label says
According to the manufacturer, Violeta Water Care wipes are designed for sensitive baby skin and suitable for newborns:
- 99% water purified by reverse osmosis,
- free from alcohol, silicones and SLES,
- hypoallergenic and dermatologically confirmed as well tolerated,
- with a gentle lotion containing Arctic bramble extract.
The ingredient list also includes fragrance (Parfum) – keep this in mind if you want completely fragrance-free wipes. Available in 20-pack (handbag size), 56-pack and 3x56-pack. See all wipes in our baby wipes collection.
How to clean the skin at nappy changes
- Clean gently with water or a wipe; for girls, wipe from front to back.
- Don’t rub – pat the skin gently.
- Let the skin dry before putting on a fresh nappy.
- If needed, apply a thin layer of barrier cream (NHS).
For what else to use on your baby’s skin, read our baby skin care guide, and for comfortable changes at home, our article on the Leander Matty changing mat.
FAQ
Are baby wipes suitable for newborns?
They can be, if they are alcohol-free and made for babies. For nappy changes the NHS recommends water or fragrance-free, alcohol-free wipes.
Is water alone enough?
Yes, lukewarm water and cotton wool are perfectly enough to clean a baby’s skin. Wipes are mainly about convenience.
What does “99% water” mean?
That the remaining 1% is made up of other ingredients (e.g. lotion, preservative). Always read the ingredient list for the full picture.
What if the skin gets red after using wipes?
Switch to plain water and barrier cream for a few days. If the redness doesn’t improve, ask a pharmacist or your paediatrician.
Can I flush baby wipes?
No, unless the manufacturer explicitly says so. Put them in the bin.
Sources
This content is for information only and does not replace advice from your paediatrician.
