Written by Declan Davey on Wed Jan 01 2025.
Cleansing wipes offer a simple yet effective way to maintain personal hygiene and soothe irritated skin, especially for those with limited mobility or incontinence. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right ones? From scented to unscented, flushable to non-flushable, and those enriched with lotions like aloe, the choices can be overwhelming.
At Carewell, we understand these nuances. That's why we’ve curated a selection of the 11 best cleansing wipes from reliable brands like Attends, TENA, and ProCare. Let's dive into what makes these wipes essential and how to find your perfect match.
Cleansing wipes are specifically designed for gentle, full-body personal hygiene. They’re ideal for those managing incontinence or with limited mobility, providing a convenient way to clean up after using the restroom or during incontinence product changes.
Unlike harsh antibacterial wipes or facial wipes, cleansing wipes are formulated to be safe and soothing for all skin areas, including sensitive areas.
Facial wipes are typically designed for makeup removal or light cleansing of the face and may not be suitable for other body parts.
Antibacterial wipes often contain disinfectants to kill germs on surfaces, which can be too harsh for sensitive skin and may cause irritation, redness, or allergic reactions. Always check the label—if "disinfectant" is listed, it's likely not meant for skin soothing.
So, why are cleansing wipes so beneficial?
Unmatched convenience: They offer a quick and easy clean-up when traditional bathing facilities aren't accessible. Many come with easy-open, single-press lids for effortless use on the go or at home.
Mobility support: For elderly or disabled individuals who struggle with showering, cleansing wipes provide an excellent alternative. Caregivers also find them invaluable for assisting with personal care, especially when there's a risk of falls or difficulty with traditional bathing.
Cost-effective: Many high-quality packs are available for under $5, making them an affordable hygiene solution.
Gentle ingredients: Many cleansing wipes are infused with skin-nourishing ingredients like Aloe Vera, Chamomile, and Vitamin E to keep skin moisturized and prevent irritation.
Selecting the best cleansing wipes doesn't have to be complicated, but a few key factors can help you narrow down your choices:
While many wipes offer a pleasant fragrance, those with chemical sensitivities or perfume allergies will benefit from unscented options. Brands like TENA Ultra Washcloths offer both scented and unscented varieties.
If you experience dry skin, choosing wipes with added lotion or moisturizing ingredients can help keep your skin hydrated and soft. Prevail's Adult Wipes with Lotion are an excellent example.
It's crucial to distinguish between flushable and non-flushable wipes. Non-flushable wipes can cause significant plumbing issues and environmental damage. If you plan to flush, always choose flushable wipes specifically designed to break down safely in plumbing systems.
Whether you're trying a new product or stocking up, pack size matters. Smaller packs (e.g., 40-50 counts) are great for testing or travel, while larger cases (e.g., 500+ counts) offer better value for regular use.
For extra skin benefits, look for wipes enriched with ingredients like Aloe, Chamomile, or Vitamin E. Attends Washcloths and ProCare Wipes feature Aloe and Vitamin E, while Prevail's Quilted Wipes include Chamomile.
Take a look at the 11 of the best cleansing wipes on the market, as voted for by Carewell customers and staff. We’ve ordered them by the number of reviews each product has. Still, we recommend that you scroll through the list to find which wipes have the features you’re looking for:
Key Features:
Contains aloe and vitamin E for soft, healthy, and clean skin.
Quick, one-handed access with an easy-open lid.
FSA & HSA eligible for added convenience.
Adult-sized for ample coverage, twice the size of baby wipes.
Key Features:
Soft yet strong, pre-moistened, and pleasantly fragranced.
Clinically tested to be mild and gentle on skin.
Convenient, easy-release dispensing lid.
Alcohol-free formula.
Key Features:
Sturdy yet soft spun-lace fabric.
Rinse-free and alcohol-free for sensitive skin.
Clinically tested for mildness.
Single-hand dispensing with a re-stickable lid.
Key Features:
Skin wellness: Hypoallergenic fabric infused with aloe, chamomile, and vitamin E helps keep skin healthy and soft.
Gentle and safe: Unscented, non-sterile, and free from natural rubber latex, making them ideal for sensitive skin.
Efficient cleaning: Durable and soft quilted fabric ensures effective cleanup.
Convenient use: The easy-to-open lid allows for quick, one-handed dispensing from the soft pack.
Key Features:
Premium quilted fabric for more effective cleaning with less waste.
Tri-Form Fabric features two gentle outer layers and a thick, tear-resistant inner layer.
Skin Smart, hypoallergenic material with Aloe, Chamomile, and Vitamin E.
Single-hand dispensing for easy access.
Key Features:
Gentle, no-rinse formula ideal for incontinence and quick clean-ups.
Soothes and moisturizes skin with aloe-infused soft cloth.
Pre-moistened and ready-to-use in convenient, resealable packs.
Key Features:
Soothing, soft cream to calm chafed or sore skin.
Leaves a moisturizing layer on the skin.
FSA & HSA eligible.
pH-balanced cleansing formula with Aloe and Vitamin E to prevent irritation.
Gentle, alcohol-free, and no rinsing necessary.
Soft pack with a reclosable lid, perfect for delicate skin.
Key Features:
Over 99% biodegradable and sewer safe when used as directed—will not clog pipes.
Pre-moistened, adult-sized washcloths.
Blended with Aloe, Chamomile, and Vitamin E to soothe delicate, elderly skin.
Strong yet gentle on pipes, mildly scented, dermatologically tested, and alcohol-free.
Key Features:
Premium emulsion (oil-in-water) formulation gently cleanses and conditions fragile skin.
Suitable for no-rinse full-body bathing, including the perineal area.
Rich, luxurious feel, available in mildly scented or unscented options.
Extra soft, thick, cloth-like texture.
One-handed dispensing with a closable plastic lid.
Dermatologically tested, alcohol-free, and enriched with Aloe, Chamomile, and Vitamin E.
Key Features:
Flushable for practical use.
Cleans and moisturizes your skin with ease.
pH-balanced and alcohol-free.
Includes a touch of Aloe to aid irritated skin.
Key Features:
No-rinse, self-sudsing, disposable washcloth.
Ideal for bathing, shampooing, and incontinence cleansing.
Free from alcohol, dyes, and preservatives.
pH-balanced and CHG compatible.
Choosing the "best" wipe truly depends on your specific needs. Here's a quick guide to help you decide:
Need flushable wipes?
TENA UltraFlush Washcloth
Flush Away Personal Wipes
Looking for FSA & HSA eligibility?
Attends Personal Wipes with Aloe, Scented
Prevail Adult Wipes with Lotion
Want added lotion for skin moisture?
Prevail Adult Wipes with Lotion
Prevail Adult Wipes with Lotion, Unscented
Prioritizing a low cost?
McKesson StayDry Personal Wipes
ProCare Wipes with Aloe/Vitamin E
Tranquility Wipes
Prefer a quilted design for superior cleaning?
Prevail Quilted Wipes with Lotion
Require unscented options?
Bedside-Care EasiCleanse Bath Wipes
Prevail Adult Wipes with Lotion, Unscented
TENA Ultra Washcloth
Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helps you find the ideal cleansing wipes for your needs or those of a loved one.
Still unsure which wipes are right for you? Our dedicated Carewell Care Team is always here to help. Call us at (800) 696-2273 or email us at support@carewell.com for personalized assistance.
You have many jobs as a caregiver, but one of the most important is keeping your loved one safe, healthy, and comfortable at all times. If your care recipient hurts themselves and requires medical help, you can minimize complications like excess bleeding until you make it to an urgent care facility or the emergency room.
Complete your first aid kit. >
Bowel incontinence affects about 1 in 3 adults, yet many people who suffer from the condition fail to seek treatment due to fear or stigma.
Download the checklist. >Declan Davey is a health and wellness copywriter from London, UK. His background includes roles as a psychological therapist for Islington Memory Service, where he worked with family caregivers, and as a rehab assistant at Camden Neurology & Stroke Service.
