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The Truth About Baby Wipes: What to Avoid & Why

The Truth About Baby Wipes: What to Avoid & Why

When it comes to caring for your baby, what you put on their skin is just as important as what you put in their body. Baby wipes might seem harmless, but many mainstream brands are loaded with ingredients that can irritate your baby’s delicate skin — or worse, pose long-term health risks.

At Simple Steps Market, we only carry baby wipes that meet the highest standards for safety and purity. Here’s exactly what we avoid in the wipes we choose — and why you should too.

❌ Fragrance

Why we avoid it:
 “Fragrance” might sound innocent, but it’s often a blanket term that hides dozens of undisclosed chemicals — many of which are linked to allergies, skin irritation, hormone disruption, and even respiratory issues. Babies have ultra-sensitive skin and developing systems, so synthetic fragrances have no place in their daily care.

❌ Formaldehyde & Formaldehyde-Releasing Preservatives

Why we avoid it:
Yes, some baby wipes can release trace amounts of formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen. Even in small doses, it can cause allergic reactions, rashes, and respiratory issues — especially in babies. We say no to any wipe that even potentially contains formaldehyde or ingredients that release it over time.

❌ Pesticides

Why we avoid it:
Conventional cotton (often used in wipes) is one of the most heavily sprayed crops. Residual pesticides can linger on the final product and be absorbed through your baby’s skin. Long-term exposure has been linked to developmental and hormonal issues. That’s why we prioritize organic or pesticide-free materials.

❌ Propylene Glycol

Why we avoid it:
This common ingredient is used to retain moisture, but it can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions, especially in babies. It’s also a penetration enhancer, which means it can help other harmful chemicals absorb more deeply into the skin — something we definitely don’t want.

❌ Chlorine

Why we avoid it:
Some wipes are bleached with chlorine, which can create toxic byproducts like dioxins — substances linked to cancer, reproductive issues, and hormone disruption. We only support wipes that are chlorine-free, keeping both your baby and the planet safe.

❌ Alcohol

Why we avoid it:
While alcohol may kill germs, it’s far too harsh for a baby’s skin. It can lead to dryness, redness, and irritation, and may even disrupt the skin’s natural barrier. Alcohol-free is always the gentler, safer choice.

❌ Benzalkonium Chloride

Why we avoid it:
This harsh chemical is often used as a disinfectant or preservative, but it’s a known skin, eye, and respiratory irritant. It can also trigger allergic reactions, especially in babies with sensitive or eczema-prone skin.

Final Thoughts

You shouldn’t need a chemistry degree to buy safe baby wipes. At Simple Steps Market, we’ve done the homework for you. Every wipe we carry is fragrance-free, toxin-free, and backed by experts — so you can feel confident about what’s touching your baby’s skin every single day.

Simple swaps. Safer homes. Healthier babies.

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