How to Use Cotton Dry Wipes for Diaper Changes

Most U.S. parents grew up with pre-moistened wet wipes. In Korea, many families reach for a different tool: soft cotton dry wipes that you use as-is or dampen with water right before use. If you are new to them, this guide walks you through a diaper change from start to finish.

What is a cotton dry wipe?

A dry wipe is a nonwoven cotton sheet that comes dry in the pack. Nothing is pre-soaked, so there is no liquid in the package. You choose how much water to add, and you can use a sheet completely dry for spills, drool, or patting skin dry. Bebesom dry wipes are unbleached, which is why you may notice tiny natural flecks in the cotton. Learn more in our guide, What Are Cotton Dry Wipes?

What you need

• A few cotton dry wipes
• A small cup, bottle, or spray bottle of clean, lukewarm water
• A clean diaper and a changing pad

Step by step

1. Set up first. Pull out two or three sheets and keep your water within reach before you open the diaper.
2. Dampen one sheet. Pour or spray a little water onto a single sheet. It should feel damp, not dripping. Cotton holds water well, so a small amount goes a long way.
3. Wipe front to back. Clean gently, folding the sheet to a fresh side as you go. Use a second damp sheet if needed.
4. Pat dry. Use a dry sheet to pat the skin before putting on the new diaper.
5. Keep the rest dry. Close the pack or pouch so unused sheets stay clean and dry for next time.

On the go

Bring a small water bottle and a handful of travel packs. Our reusable dry wipe pouch clips onto a stroller or diaper bag and has a flip-top lid, so you can pull one sheet at a time.

Tips from parents who use dry wipes

• Dampen only the sheet you are about to use. Wet sheets left in a pack are harder to keep clean.
• Use a dry sheet to blot spit-up and drool, and a damp one for sticky hands and faces after meals.
• If your baby has a skin concern, ask your pediatrician what they recommend for cleaning.

Which pack to start with

If you are trying dry wipes for the first time, the Starter Pack mixes a 100-sheet home pack with 10-sheet travel packs and a pouch. Families who change many diapers a day often choose the Family or Bulk Pack. Compare every option on the Unbleached Cotton Baby Dry Wipes page.

Want to see how dry wipes compare with traditional wet wipes? Read Dry Wipes vs. Wet Wipes. Curious about testing? Our Safety Reports page shows the lab report for our dry-wipe sample, including its scope and limits.