Wet wipes are a convenient and easy way to keep your skin and surfaces clean. But did you know that most wipes can have a negative impact on the environment? Wet wipes have become increasingly popular in recent years, with many people using them as an alternative to toilet paper. But while they may seem like a great solution for those times when you don’t have access to a bathroom, they can be damaging to the environment and your septic system.
Most traditional wipes are made from synthetic fibers that don’t break down easily in water. When these fibers enter our sewage systems, they can cause sewer blockages, leading to costly repairs and environmental damage. In addition, wet wipes often contain plastic microfibers, which can be harmful to marine life.
Fortunately, there is a convenient alternative to traditional wet wipes that are much better for the environment. Biodegradable, eco-friendly wipes are made from natural fibers that break down in water and won’t cause damage to your septic system or the environment.
To help you find the best biodegradable products, I’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best biodegradable wet wipes. I’ll also provide helpful tips on how to choose the right wipe for your needs.
Note: We are committed to extensively researching and recommending the best products on the market. We are partnered with Amazon’s affiliate program and may receive commissions from affiliate links within our content, which comes at no extra cost to you.
Best Biodegradable Wet Wipes
Let’s start off with one of the best out there.
#1 – Nolla Wet Wipes, 100% Plant-Based, Plastic-Free and Biodegradable
Nolla wipes are extra large for that extra clean, measuring 7.9 x 6.7 inches and up to 45% larger than standard sized wipes. They’re ultra-dispersible, actually flushable and septic safe – independently tested to significantly exceed GD4 standards for flushability, dispersion and breakdown in sewer and septic systems.
Plus, they’re incredibly soft and stays moist – fragrance-free and infused with Vitamin E and Aloe. They are also pH balanced for sensitive skin, making them solid baby wipes too.
But, most importantly, they are made from 100% plant-based materials and are plastic-free. Nolla wipes are biodegradable in just 45 days, according to lab tests conducted by SGS Group, the global leader in environmental sustainability testing. That means nothing is left behind once used – no harmful microplastics or chemicals entering our oceans and waterways.
However, they may not be the best option for all uses. Nolla wipes aren’t as durable compared to other brands of wet wipes, so they can tear and rip easily. Also, since each wipe is individually wrapped it’s easy to pull out two when you only want one.
But if you’re looking to reduce your environmental impact without compromising on cleanliness, Nolla wipes are definitely worth considering! They will get the job done with a fresh, natural feel and their biodegradability and recyclable packaging make them a more sustainable option than conventional wet wipes.
#2 – WaterWipes Plastic-Free Textured Clean
WaterWipes are revolutionary for smart, modern parents. Made with 99.9% purified water and a drop of fruit and berry extract, they’re clinically proven to be gentle on baby’s delicate skin – no more harsh chemicals or preservatives!
The soft textured surface provides added cleaning power to tackle messes on hands, faces, and bottoms, making them perfect for growing babies and toddlers. Plus, they’re made from 100% viscose – a natural, biodegradable wood pulp fiber that’s hypoallergenic, unscented, and contains no artificial fragrances, parabens or sulfates.
That’s why WaterWipes are accepted by the National Eczema Association of America, Dermatologically Approved by the Skin Health Alliance and registered by the Vegan Society.
But while they offer exceptional cleaning and gentle care, WaterWipes can be a bit too moist at times – meaning they tend to stick together when you don’t want them to. Because of their soft texture, they can also be hard to take out of the container at times due to the design of the dispenser.
Despite these minor inconveniences, WaterWipes remain a top choice for parents who want to give their little one safe and effective cleaning. Whether it’s wiping hands and faces, or taking care of messes on-the-go, WaterWipes are the perfect solution for a busy family.
#3 – The Honest Company Clean Conscious Wipes
The Honest Company Wipes are here to make your life easier! Not only are they extra large, sturdy, and durable; but they’re also hypoallergenic, dermatologist-tested and EWG verified. To top it off, they’re 90% biodegradable in 60 days in municipal/industrial facilities according to OECD 311 standards.
Additionally, The Honest Company has received the NEA Seal of Approval because they never test on animals, making them cruelty-free as well!
The Honest Company Wipes may be a bit more expensive than conventional wet wipes but they’re still cost-effective. You get way more wipes in each value pack, and you can rest assured knowing that your family is always taken care of.
They also may feel a bit rough to touch, but they are perfect for cleaning up messes safely and effectively. It wouldn’t hurt to be a bit softer with these on your skin though, and these wipes may not be the best as baby wipes.
But overall, the Honest Company Clean Conscious Wipes are a great choice for just about anyone. They’re made with safe, sustainable materials and they get the job done.
#4 – Baby Green Wipes Unscented Compostable Biodegradable and Organic
Baby Wipes are the perfect choice for parents who want to make an eco-smart switch and contribute to a better world. These vegan wipes are biodegradable, derived from trees, and quickly break down – fully returning back into the ground within several months! Fully compliant with the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) – Baby Green Wipes support environmentally responsible and sustainable forestry management.
These wipes are not only good for the planet, they’re also exceptionally soft to your baby’s delicate skin. The ultra-soft material is made from natural fibers and is gentle enough to clean your little one’s face, hands, and body.
Plus, Baby Green Wipes are compact by design – reducing their carbon footprint when it comes to shipping and packaging!
With these eco-friendly baby wipes, you can be sure that your baby’s sensitive skin will be getting nothing but quality care, and you can rest assured knowing that you’re taking important steps towards conservation of ecosystems throughout the world. They also offer full refunds for returns within 30 days – so you can shop with peace of mind.
The only downsides? This is not a flushable wipe, and may come with a bit of a smell as a result of the packaging process.
However, the smell is quickly eliminated after you open them. So while they’re not perfect, they’re still an amazing product that puts protection of our planet first.
#5 – Caboo Bamboo Wipes
Caboo Wipes are the solid choice for an environmentally-friendly alternative. Their wipes are made from 100% tree-free viscose derived from sustainably grown bamboo, a renewable resource that takes only three to four months to grow back compared to trees taking up to 30 years!
Not only is their manufacturing facility accredited with BRC, FSC, FDA and ISO certifications, but they are also proudly “Panda Friendly” by sourcing bamboo which is not a food source for pandas.
Caboo’s commitment to the environment doesn’t end there. They also work with the U.S. Forest Service to plant a tree for every pound of paper sold, further increasing the air and water quality and providing a chance to combat climate change.
In addition to their environmental benefits, Caboo Wipes are also septic safe and certified biodegradable. They have passed the INDA/EDANA Flushability Assessment Guidelines, making them the perfect compostable wipes for boats, campers or motorhomes.
Unfortunately, the wipes have a few drawbacks. They are on the thinner side and aren’t as sturdy as some other brands, meaning that wetter messes require several wipes to handle them.
Moreover, because of their biodegradability, these wipes may decompose much faster than traditional plastic-based alternatives, so it’s important to use them as soon as possible. They may not be ideal for tougher messes or if you need them to last long periods of time.
Overall, Caboo Bamboo Biodegradable Wipes are an excellent choice for those looking for sustainable and eco-friendly wet wipes. They offer significant environmental benefits over traditional plastic-based wipes even when considering the drawbacks.
#6 – Go on The Go Wet Wipes for Travel – Biodegradable
Go on the Go Wipes are great for keeping yourself clean and hygienic on the go. Their all-natural wipes contain no alcohol and are made with calming ingredients like aloe and calendula to provide ultimate ease and comfort. Plus, they’re anti-inflammatory and biodegradable too!
And the best part? Go on the Go Wet Wipes are pocket-sized, making them perfect for travel. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or just traveling around town – having a pack of their wipes can make all the difference in staying clean and fresh.
But there are a few negatives you should know before you purchase.
First, Go on the Go Wet Wipes come in single-use tissue-sized packets, meaning each wipe is relatively small – which may or may not be helpful depending on your cleaning needs.
Second, while the wipes are technically flushable, the package recommends flushing just one wipe at a time – so you may want to consider another disposal option.
With that in mind, be sure to check out Go on the Go Wet Wipes for Travel and see just how useful they can be! Their convenient size makes them easy to take with you wherever you go, giving you the perfect solution for keeping clean on the go.
#7 – Mum & You Biodegradable, Compostable, and Vegan Baby Wet Wipes
Mum & You Biodegradable Baby Wipes are designed with your baby in mind. Their wipes are made with 99.4% water and 0% plastic, so you can be sure that you’re giving your little one the best possible care. Plus, their 100% recyclable packaging is kind to our planet too!
The carefully selected ingredients have been chosen for their gentle and moisturizing properties – so you can trust that the wipes are kind to your baby’s delicate skin. Mum & You Biodegradable Baby Wipes are hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested, meaning they are suitable for even the youngest babies.
But parents care about more than just their babies! That’s why it’s important to note that these wipes are Leaping Bunny approved, registered by the Vegan Society, and committed to using PEFC certified sustainable fibers.
None of the company’s products are tested on animals – so you can trust that they are looking out for both your little one and the environment.
Not only are Mum & You baby wipes good for your child, but they last too! They won’t dry out after a few weeks like other brands do. Each packet contains 56 large sheets which stay just as moist and effective up to three months after opening.
So you can be sure that you’re getting the most value out of every box. Be aware that these are not flushable wipes, so keep them out of your toilets!
Our planet needs us to make more conscious decisions when it comes to our wipes – and Mum & You have made that easy! With their 100% biodegradable, compostable, and vegan wet wipes, you can trust that your baby is getting the best care while respecting our planet too.
#8 – Surviveware Biodegradable Wet Wipes
Surviveware Biodegradable Wet Wipes are a must-have for every camper! Not only are they ideal for wiping up after a long, sweaty day of hiking and exploring, but they’re also great to keep you feeling clean and refreshed while out in the wild. The wipes are unscented so that you don’t have to worry about bug attractants or an overwhelming smell – plus, they’re alcohol free and pH balanced with aloe for a gentle cleaning experience.
These wipes are also extremely useful for more than just keeping your body clean. When you’re out on the road and don’t have access to a sink, these handy wipes can be used as an equipment cleaner or hand and face wash for kids.
And if you have pets along with you, you can use them to give your little one a quick cleanse. Plus, each wipe is 8″ x 12″, so you only need one to get the job done!
Don’t worry about having wet or dried-out wipes – once you open the package, all you have to do is close it back up and the other wipes will stay fresh for next time.
However, there are some downsides to these wipes that you should be aware of. The wipes are pretty big, which may not be helpful for smaller messes. Additionally, it can be hard to grab just 1 wipe at a time. Finally, the size and quantity can add some noticeable weight when traveling.
All in all, Surviveware Biodegradable Wet Wipes offer an easy and convenient way to stay clean and refreshed in the great outdoors – just make sure that you are prepared!
#9 – Combat Wipes ACTIVE Outdoor Wet Wipes
Combat Wipes Wet Wipes are the perfect companion for outdoor enthusiasts looking to remain clean and fresh on their adventures. Developed by elite military soldiers, these wet wipes are extra thick and boast a unique textured cloth design that allows for a thorough clean. They have also been extensively lab-tested for superior cleaning power.
These wipes are individually folded and packaged in a convenient, resealable travel size pack that makes them the perfect choice for hikers, rock climbers, golfers, festival-goers, fitness folk and campers alike. Unlike some other brands, it’s easy to pull these wipes out one at a time.
These wipes are also gentle on skin as they are alcohol-free and infused with aloe and vitamin E, so you can safely use Combat Wipes Wet Wipes on the face, as body bath wipes, as survival gear and equipment and as camping toilet wipes whenever nature calls.
However, the smaller size of these wipes may struggle to handle larger messes or broader areas. Furthermore, despite claims that they are extra thick, they may be prone to tears if used aggressively.
So while these wipes will provide a great clean during your adventures, take care when using them on bigger jobs.
#10 – DRMTLGY Body and Face Shower Wipes for Women and Men
DRMTLGY Wipes are your solution for staying clean and feeling refreshed on-the-go. These XL eco-friendly, vegan wipes are 12 x 8 inches long and biodegradable, so they break down naturally without leaving behind any mess. Perfect for those days when you need a quick, full-body cleanse without taking a full shower.
These wipes follow two simple rules: they can’t be bad for you and they have to work. So in addition to being practical and eco-friendly, these wipes are also skin-friendly.
They contain german chamomile, aloe vera, cucumber fruit extract, marsh mallow root, oat kernel extract and other plant-based nourishing ingredients that are gentle on your skin and will never leave behind a sticky or tacky residue. Plus, they’re unscented wipes so you can stay clean without any unnecessary fragrances.
The convenient pouch dispenses one wipe at a time, so you’ll never have to worry about having an unmanageable clump of wipes again. And since they’re so portable and lightweight, these shower wipes are perfect for camping trips or active lifestyles.
Unfortunately, these wipes do dry out quickly once pulled out of the package. So it’s best to use them right away or soon after opening to make sure you have the full effect of their cleansing power.
But if you don’t mind a little extra effort in exchange for greater convenience, DRMTLGY Wipes can provide an effective cleanse in a fraction of the time.
Guide – What to Look For in Biodegradable Wet Wipes
With more and more people becoming conscious about the impact their purchases have on the environment, it’s important to be sure you’re getting a product that actually meets your sustainability needs.
In this guide we’ll cover the various features that you should be aware of when choosing a brand for biodegradable wet wipes.
Biodegradable and Compostable Wipes, Flushable Wipes
Many wet wipes are labeled as biodegradable wipes, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it will break down quickly in landfills or compost piles. If you’re looking for a truly sustainable product, you should look for one that contains both biodegradable and compostable materials.
These products are made to break down more rapidly than traditional wipes, leaving minimal waste behind.
Examples of material for biodegradable and compostable wipes:
- Bamboo
- Cotton
- Hemp
- Wood pulp
Now as for flushable wipes, let me be clear – I do not believe that you should every really use flushable wipes as a substitute for toilet paper. It’s difficult to find wet wipes that will properly break down in septic tanks, and the potential plumbing issues will come at an high additional cost.
That said, if you truly need eco-friendly flushable wipes, I suggest you test them out first. Simulate the environment of a septic tank and place a couple of wipes in there. After about 30 days, see how much the flushable wipes break down. If there’s little to no change, then I’d think twice about flushing them.
Sustainable Packaging
In addition to the ingredients in the wipes themselves, consider the packaging. Many wet wipe brands use plastic packaging that can’t be recycled or composted.
When looking for a sustainable product, try to find one with eco-friendly packaging such as paperboard or cardboard boxes.
Ingredients
When looking for a biodegradable wipe, make sure to pay attention to the ingredients and additives used in the product. Many wipes are made with synthetic materials and harsh chemicals that can be damaging to the environment.
Look for products that use natural ingredients such as aloe vera, tea tree oil or essential oils, which are less likely to cause harm to the environment and are better for personal hygiene.
Durability
It’s important to make sure the wipes you choose are durable enough to get the job done. You want a wipe that is strong enough to hold up when used on tough jobs and won’t break down too quickly in water.
I recommend choosing wipes made from viscose, as they tend to be on the stronger side.
Price Point
Consider the price point of the biodegradable wipes you’re looking at. Many sustainable products come with a higher price tag, so be prepared to pay more for quality.
However, if you shop around and compare prices you may find some great deals.
Eco-Friendly Certification
If you want to be sure that the product you’re buying is truly sustainable, look for a certification. Many companies are now voluntarily undergoing third-party testing to ensure their products meet certain standards of sustainability, which separates them as a true eco-friendly option.
Looking for a product with an eco-friendly certification such as EU Ecolabel, Green Seal, FSC, or even Amazon’s Climate Pledge Friendly certification can give you peace. Don’t be afraid to reach out to the company directly and ask!
Scent and Fragrance-Free Options
Be sure to check if the wipes you’re considering are scented or fragrance-free. Many synthetic fragrances used in conventional wet wipes contain toxic chemicals that can harm the environment.
If you want a truly sustainable product, look for one that is fragrance-free and chemical-free. This will help ensure minimal environmental impact and keep you and your family safe. If you still want natural fragrances, consider choosing a wipe with certified organic ingredients.
That way you can enjoy a pleasant aroma without the harmful chemicals.
Animal Testing and Cruelty-Free Claims
Make sure that the product you choose is cruelty-free. Many companies still use animal testing when creating their products, so be sure to check if they have a third-party certification or claim of being cruelty-free.
Having a certification from Leaping Bunny, for example, is a giant green flag.
Responsible Manufacturing Practices
It’s also important to make sure that the company you’re buying from is practicing responsible manufacturing practices. Look for companies who are committed to reducing their impact on the environment, such as using energy-efficient production methods, sustainable sourcing of materials, and minimizing their waste.
By doing your research and understanding the differences among biodegradable wipes, you can make an informed decision and help support a more sustainable future.
Wrap Up
Making the switch to biodegradable wipes is a great step toward reducing your environmental impact.
Biodegradable and compostable wipes are made with natural materials, have durable constructions, come in eco-friendly packaging, and are free of harsh chemicals and fragrances. The good ones also come with certifications to ensure they meet certain standards of sustainability, are cruelty-free, and produced responsibly.
Taking the time to research which wipes are right for you can help ensure you make a sustainable and informed choice.
By choosing biodegradable wet wipes, we can all do our part in helping to preserve the planet. Together let’s make an impact by doing our part to reduce our impact on the environment and create a more sustainable future. Thank you for taking the time read!