But while wet wipes make you think you're getting your bum cleaner, they can actually cause myriad complications that you likely don't want to deal with in the long run. Apart from being a major environmental concern βwhich is a big dealβwet wipes aren't the best option for the health of your anal region. According to the Food and Drug Administration FDA wipes can be made of materials like polyester, polypropylene, cotton, wood, pulp, or rayon fibers formed into sheets.
Most are moistened with water and other cleansing and moisturizing agents. Some may even have certain ingredients to help prevent mold and bacteria growth. While most wet wipes like baby wipes, for example contain water as the main ingredient, antibacterial wipes will often have alcohol and other chemicals that kill bacteria, per the Environmental Working Group. Products may also be labeled scented, unscented, or fragrance-free, per the FDA, depending on whether certain perfumes or essential oils are added.
The benefits of wet wipes? Most obviously, the convenience factor and a cleaner feel. But there are some downsides to using them more on this below. You may be wondering: "Are wet wipes bad for you? Just like the skin on your face, your anus and its surrounding skin is covered in good and bad bacteria, which work together to find homeostasis and keep your tush in tip-top condition.
When there's an imbalance, you can wind up with irritation, rashes, or fungal or bacterial infections. And, BTW: Even the best wet wipes that are "chemical-free" will do this.
Another big risk with using wet wipes is the moisture factor. If you get something like this, make an appointment with your doctor to see what's going on. What's more, wet wipes can cause major problems for the health of your plumbing, too. Flushable wipes and other waste like grease can accumulate in our sewer system, creating massive "fatbergs" that clog pipes and damage wastewater infrastructure, per Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
