Target Baby Wipes Recall: What Parents Need to Know + Safer Alternatives
Parents across the country are checking their wipe stashes after Target announced a voluntary recall of certain Up & Up Fragrance Free and Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes due to potential microbial contamination. Testing identified the presence of Burkholderia cepacia and Burkholderia gladioli, bacteria that can cause serious infections, particularly in newborns, infants, young children, and those with compromised immune systems. Target has advised consumers to stop using affected wipes immediately and return them for a full refund.
The recall was initiated after customer complaints of discoloration and subsequent testing confirmed contamination. Reports associated with the recalled wipes have included skin irritation, eye irritation, and infections.
Check Your Wipes
Affected products include select lots of:
Up & Up Fragrance Free Baby Wipes
Up & Up Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes
These products were sold nationwide in Target stores and online. If you have Up & Up wipes in your home, check the packaging against the recall information available from Target and the FDA.
Learn More About the Recall
If you think you may have purchased one of the affected products, here are the official resources with lot numbers, UPC codes, photos of the packaging, and refund information:
FDA Recall Notice: FDA Recall Notice for Up & Up Baby Wipes
Target Recall Information and Refund Instructions: Target Product Recall Page
Target Corporate Recall Announcement: Target Recall Press Release
The recall affects certain lots of Up & Up Fragrance Free Baby Wipes and Up & Up Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes sold nationwide in stores and online. Consumers are advised to stop using affected wipes immediately and return them to any Target store for a full refund. FDA testing identified potential contamination with Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioli, bacteria that can cause serious infections in newborns, infants, young children, and immunocompromised individuals.
Looking for Alternatives?
For families who use disposable wipes, one of my personal favorites is Momcozy Water Wipes. They're gentle, giant, and a great option for babies with sensitive skin.
Other options:
When shopping for disposable baby wipes, look for products made with simple, gentle ingredients such as purified water, plant-based fibers, aloe vera, chamomile, or vitamin E. Fragrance-free options are often best, especially for babies with sensitive skin. Avoid wipes that contain added fragrances, alcohol, parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde-releasing preservatives, or harsh detergents, as these ingredients can increase the risk of skin irritation and allergic reactions. Choosing wipes with a short, transparent ingredient list can help you feel more confident about what is coming into contact with your baby's delicate skin.
For cloth diapering families,
This is also a great reminder of why many parents love cloth wipes. Cloth wipes are reusable, customizable, and you always know exactly what is touching your baby's skin.
Some excellent cloth wipe options include:
Homemade cloth wipes made from flannel, cotton, or other soft absorbent fabrics
What Do You Use With Cloth Wipes?
One of the biggest misconceptions about cloth wipes is that they require a complicated routine. In reality, many families simply use water!
Other popular options include:
Wipe bits dissolved in water to create a gentle cleansing solution with baby-safe soap
The beauty of cloth wipes is that you can customize your routine to fit your baby's needs while avoiding unnecessary ingredients and disposable waste.
A Good Reminder for All Parents
Recalls like this can feel scary, but they also serve as an important reminder to stay informed about the products we use every day. Whether you choose disposable wipes, reusable cloth wipes, or a combination of both, regularly checking recall notices and paying attention to product changes such as unusual odors, discoloration, or irritation can help keep little ones safe.
Have you ever switched wipe brands because of a recall or product issue? Let us know what wipes your family loves in the comments!
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