AIBU to feel guilty about using disposable wipes?

[bubblegumbottles]

These days most of us seem to be making an effort to be kinder to our planet and I've really made a push in the last year or so.

We've stopped buying plastic bottles, don't buy pre packaged fruit/veg, use reusable cups, reusable nappies, shampoo bars, metal straws etc etc

but I just can't seem to kick my disposable wipe habit! I've managed to get rid of face wipes but anti-bac surface wipes I just cannot seem to get rid of, they are so convenient and quick. I know I am BU and probably should get a grip.

Is there anything you fellow MNers KNOW is bad for the environment but just can't seem to stop?!

Yes. Reading the Daily Mail.

Except, I don’t read it. It’s just bad for the planet and all humanity.

Overpopulating the planet

With all the changes you’ve already made, I should think the anti bac wipes would be quite an easy switch to something more eco friendly. I mean, the dedication to cloth nappies is quite something - keeping up with the washing, all the poo mess, etc. But it’s your choice, and if you are happy using them then I think it’s acceptable given you’ve already reduced your plastic waste by so much.

I’ve tried to be much more eco friendly with life in general - cloth nappies, reusable wipes, recycling, eco bricking non recyclable plastics. I just can’t stop using my zoflora and bleach (loo). I’ve tried the Method products and I’ve cut down on the number of different cleaning products but nothing compares to bleach and zoflora.

I have old fashioned knitted dishcloths which I use with kitchen spray and just throw them in the washing machine after a couple of uses (probably use two per day). So they never have a chance to get dirty / germy. Much better for the environment and think of the money you'll save too!

Blue Roll Paper Towels

@VanillaSugarr 😂😂 agreed

@LampShadeHeid I'm trying so hard with the cleaning products but you're right, sometimes the alternative just doesn't compare. I try to save the strong stuff for doing a 'big clean' and feel a bit less guilty..

Get cheeky wipes. If you’re using reusable nappies it’s no more effort to use these instead of wet wipes. Get the white flannelly ones for bums and the multicoloured microcloths for faces/hands. Or buy some flannels and cut them up

Anti-bac wipes are totally unnecessary and are now believed to be harmful because they are thought to contribute to various diseases due to wiping out friendly bacteria as well as unfriendly. Basic hygiene is fine. Use a dishcloth to wipe surfaces with some non-toxic cleaner if needed, then wham it in a wash.

Anti-bac wipes of any sort are a bad idea anyway. Buy a pack of cloths and clean your surfaces with those, using a squirt of spray (or vinegar/soap). And then just chuck them in the normal wash when they are dirty.

From another perspective though OP - none of us are perfect. You've already made significant changes that will have some impact. Don't beat yourself up if you can't change everything.

I try my best but cannot be without wet wipes - I've justified this to myself because my DC is adopted and since the greatest thing you can do for the planet is not to pro-create, I've already checked that off my list so everything else doesn't even compare

Totally second knitted dishcloths and a kitchen spray.