Gynecologists Say Feminine Wipes Are Safe to Use — But You Don't Actually Need Them

Easy to stash in your gym bag or purse, feminine wipes help freshen up down there after a workout or sweaty day before you can shower. Many users also recommend using feminine wipes to help clean up any leakage from menstrual products like period underwear and tampons. Made with materials designed to prevent irritation, some people rely on feminine wipes for the refreshing, clean feel or for the light scent, but note that you don’t necessarily need feminine wipes to be clean as the vagina is self-cleansing.

The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab fiber scientists consulted with leading gynecologists to find the best feminine wipes that are safe to use and will keep you feeling fresh. These picks are based on brands with previous top performance and wipes with rave online reviews.

Are feminine wipes safe to use?

Alyssa Dweck M.D., a leading gynecologist in Westchester County, New York and author of The Complete A to Z for Your V, says that in most cases, feminine wipes are safe to use to freshen up “in a pinch,” such as after an intense workout or sweaty commute. However, “for super sensitive skin, they may wreak havoc.” If you are prone to vaginal infections, it may be best to avoid wipes altogether — particularly scented options.

Some feminine wipes claim to be "pH balancing," but there are many caveats, Dr. Dweck says. The external vulva and vagina each have their own normal pH range, so "if the wipe mirrors that pH, then applying them will maintain a normal pH." If a wipe contains alcohol, it may be called antibacterial, but "this property may not be long lasting and surely will not treat a bacterial infection," according to Dr. Dweck. Therefore, "pH balancing" or "antibacterial" claims on feminine wipes should not be the main reason for purchasing. Keep in mind that all feminine wipes are designed for external use and should never be used internally, "because the normal pH can be altered and thus infection can ensue," says Dr. Dweck.

Lastly, if you have a UTI, Dr. Dweck suggests using "plain water or a cotton washcloth with warm water" instead of feminine wipes . Whether feminine wipes could cause UTIs depends on the "individual and the ingredients of the wipes," as "some women are super sensitive or prone to UTIs," explains Dr. Dweck. What specifically caused the UTI can be tough to know, but it's best not to potentially irritate the region further.

Are baby wipes better than feminine wipes?

If you’re new to wipes, it’s best to stick with traditional feminine wipes before trying baby wipes as a replacement. Baby wipes and feminine wipes many times have similar ingredients, but some baby wipes may be irritating to use in your intimate area. When finding the best feminine wipe for you, Dr. Dweck says for many it can be “trial and error,” so it’s best to try a few different brands.

Do feminine wipes help with odor?

Feminine wipes are best suited to help with odors caused by sweat, and even so, “this is a Band-Aid effect,” according to Dr. Dweck. Every vagina has a natural odor that doesn't need to be masked, but if you’re experiencing unusual odors or any major irritation, Dr. Dweck suggests to consult with your gynecologist to rule out infection.