How to Save Money on Baby Wipes

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When it comes to parenting, every penny really does count. From nappies to formula, baby food and clothing, the expenses of caring for a baby can quickly add up. Another item amongst these costs are disposable baby wipes, which may seem like a small upfront expense but one that can significantly impact your budget over time. However, there is another option, a sustainable and cost-effective alternative one… Reusable baby wipes. Let’s explore how making the switch to reusable from disposable can save you money on baby wipes.

Understanding the Costs

Disposable baby wipes may appear inexpensive at first glance, but their cumulative cost may surprise you. Let’s consider the numbers: a typical pack of disposable wipes in the UK costs around £1 to £2 for 64 to 80 wipes. For a family using one pack per week, that can add up to approximately £52 to £104 per year.

While the initial investment for reusable wipes may be higher, the long-term savings are substantial. A set of 20 reusable wipes can cost between £10 to £20, depending on the material and brand. With proper care, these wipes can last for years, eliminating the need for repeated purchases and saving you hundreds of pounds over time (see more on this below).

Environmental Impact

In addition to the financial savings, reusable wipes offer significant environmental benefits. Disposable wipes contribute to landfill waste and environmental pollution, as many contain non-biodegradable materials like plastics – making them a single-use plastic just like say a drinks bottle. The production and disposal of disposable wipes also consume valuable resources such as water and energy.

By choosing reusable wipes that are made from sustainable materials like bamboo or organic cotton, you’ll not only be reducing your household waste but also your carbon footprint and helping to preserve the planet for future generations.

Choosing Reusable Wipes

When choosing reusable wipes, you’ll want to consider factors such as material, size, and durability. Bamboo and organic cotton are popular choices due to their softness, absorbency, and sustainability. There are some amazing brands and companies out there making sets with all you need such as Muslinz, Cheeky Wipes and Boots.

You could even consider making your own using old fabric scraps. DIY wipes not only save money but also allow you to customise the materials and sizes to suit your own preferences.

Using and Caring for Reusable Wipes

Using reusable wipes is simple and convenient. Wet the wipe with water or a gentle homemade solution (some parents like to add essential oils) and use it as you would a disposable wipe. When using them at home you can just wet as you go but when out and about you could consider wetting them inside a carry box or perhaps a wet bag to take with you or you could take a spray bottle and spritz your wipes when you need to use them. After each use, your wipes can be placed in a designated container (if you use reusable nappies they can go into your nappy bin/pail) or wet bag until wash day.

To care for reusable wipes follow this simple method:

• Rinse cycle on your washing machine with no detergent (make sure your machine is 3/4 full with items)
• A good wash cycle (usually on a 40) them in hot water with a mild detergent, no fabric softener or harsh chemicals.
• Hang up to air-dry

Calculating the Savings on Baby Wipes

Let’s break down the potential savings of switching to reusable wipes. Suppose a pack of disposable wipes costs £1.50 and contains 80 wipes. If you use one pack per week, that adds up to £78 per year. In comparison, a set of 20 reusable wipes may cost £15 upfront but these will last for several years to come with proper care.

Assuming you purchase two sets of reusable wipes for a total of £30, you’ll be saving £48 on baby wipes in the first year alone! Over five years, the savings multiply to £240, making reusable wipes a cost-effective choice for budget-conscious families.

The facts and figures are pretty clear, making the switch to reusable baby wipes is a smart investment for both your finances and the environment. By ditching disposable wipes and embracing sustainable alternatives, you can save money whilst also reducing your waste.

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