Wet wipes and towelettes are everyday essentials for hygiene, cleaning and personal care. From households and salons to clinics and aged care, these disposable wipes offer a convenient, quick solution for surface cleaning and skin refreshment. But with so many products on the market, it is important to understand their applications, limitations and how to store and dispose of them properly.
At Medilab Marketplace, we stock a wide selection of wet wipes and towelettes tailored for healthcare, beauty, childcare and general cleaning needs. Our cleaning supplies collection includes options that meet Australian standards for safety, softness and effectiveness.
What Are Disposable Wipes Used For?
Disposable wipes are single-use, pre-moistened cloths that serve different purposes based on their formulation. Common types include:
-
Antibacterial surface wipes for disinfecting tables, trolleys and equipment
-
Skin cleansing wipes for patients, children or beauty clients
-
Makeup remover wipes for salon and personal use
-
Body wipes designed for aged care or travel
-
Towel-style towelettes for freshening up after treatments or exercise
Choosing the right wipe depends on your setting. For example, salons often opt for biodegradable skin-safe towelettes, while medical clinics require hospital-grade disinfecting wipes.
Are Wet Wipes Bad for Skin?
Not all wet wipes are equal, especially when it comes to skin health. Some contain alcohol, fragrance or preservatives that can irritate sensitive skin or disrupt the skin barrier over time.
Dermatologists recommend looking for fragrance-free, pH-balanced and hypoallergenic wipes for facial or sensitive use. For example, the Australasian College of Dermatologists advises avoiding wipes with harsh chemical preservatives like methylisothiazolinone (MIT), especially in children’s products.
If you or your clients experience dryness, itching or breakouts after using a wipe, it may be best to switch to one made for sensitive skin or labelled dermatologically tested. Always patch test when trying new products.
Can You Flush Wet Wipes?
This is one of the most frequently asked questions in Australia, and the answer is simple: no, most wet wipes should not be flushed.
According to Sydney Water, wet wipes are a leading cause of sewer blockages, even if the packaging says "flushable". These wipes do not break down in the same way as toilet paper and can clog plumbing systems, causing costly damage.
The best disposal method is to bin used wipes, even those that claim to be biodegradable or sewer-safe. Choose wipes made from plant-based fibres if you are looking to reduce environmental impact, but always check disposal instructions on the label.
You can read more about the impact of wipes on Australian plumbing systems via Sydney Water's wet wipes disposal guide.
Shelf Life: How Long Do Wet Wipes Last?
Unopened packs of wet wipes typically last 18 to 24 months, depending on the manufacturer. However, the actual shelf life depends on:
-
Packaging seal quality
-
Storage temperature
-
Exposure to light and humidity
To extend the life of your unopened packs, store them in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight. Once opened, ensure the seal is closed tightly after each use to prevent drying out.
If wipes feel dry, discoloured or have an unusual odour, they should be discarded. Using expired wipes may reduce effectiveness and increase skin sensitivity.
Choosing Wet Wipes from Medilab Marketplace
When choosing wet wipes and towelettes for professional or personal use, quality and compatibility matter. At Medilab Marketplace, we offer products that suit:
-
Healthcare and aged care facilities
-
Beauty and wellness salons
-
Childcare and educational centres
-
Hospitality and fitness environments
-
Home and personal care use
All our wet wipes and disposable towelettes are selected from reputable suppliers and backed by safety standards for Australian users.
🛒 Explore our full range of wet wipes and towelettes in the Cleaning Supplies collection.
Disposable wipes are here to stay, but using them responsibly matters. Choose products that are safe for skin, effective for cleaning and environmentally conscious where possible. Never flush wipes, and always store them according to manufacturer instructions. Whether you run a business or need everyday hygiene products at home, Medilab Marketplace offers trusted options that combine quality, convenience and peace of mind.
References:
-
Sydney Water. (2023). Wet wipes and blockages. https://www.sydneywater.com.au/wetwipes
-
The Australasian College of Dermatologists. (2022). Skin irritants and preservatives. https://www.dermcoll.edu.au
-
CHOICE Australia. (2023). Are flushable wipes really flushable? https://www.choice.com.au/home-improvement/water/sewerage/articles/flushable-wipes