What you should know when choosing non-toxic cleaning wipes on Welpr:

  • Only the cleanest products make it onto Welpr.
  • We use a score called the Welpr Rating to rank each product.
  • The Welpr Rating is based on math, not opinion, ensuring it's free from human bias.
The Welpr Rating is determined by a scoring formula. The formula takes into account the products safety, user satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing. Click here to learn more.
Our Methodology and Ratings

Find Non-Toxic Cleaning Wipes

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.

Disinfecting Wipes, Lemongrass Citrus - Seventh Generation

Disinfecting Wipes, Lemongrass Citrus - Seventh Generation
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.95
/5
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Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-A contain minimal health hazards and provide excellent ingredient disclosure. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners/6963-SeventhGenerationDisinfectingWipesLemongrassCitrus/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
<p>The B Corp certification indicates that a company meets high social and environmental standards. <a href="https://www.bcorporation.net/en-us/find-a-b-corp/company/seventh-generation/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$20.61

Product Details

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  • Convenient disinfectant wipes for daily touch-ups and tough cleaning jobs.
  • Clean and disinfect in one easy step.
  • Kills 99.99% of bacteria and viruses on hard, non-porous surfaces.
  • No rinse required, even on food contact surfaces and children's toys.
  • Formulated with Thymol, an active ingredient derived from Thyme Oil.
  • Lemongrass Citrus Scent made with essential oils and botanical extracts.
  • Environmentally conscious product designed for use around kids and pets.
  • EPA registered disinfectant suitable for multiple surfaces including doorknobs, gym equipment, and bathroom surfaces.
  • Part of the Seventh Generation’s range of environmentally conscious cleaning products.
  • Manufactured in partnership with the CleanWell Company.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Effective
  • Natural
  • Safe

Cons Mentioned

  • Smell

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.


Ingredients: Thymol, Water, Sodium Lauryl Sulfate, Copper Sulfate Pentahydrate (Bluestone), Citric Acid, Sodium Sulfate, Cymbopogon Nardus (Citronella) Oil, Cymbopogon Schoenanthus (Lemongrass) Oil, Rayon, Polyester

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.

All Purpose Surface Wipes, Fragrance Free - Babyganics

All Purpose Surface Wipes, Fragrance Free - Babyganics
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.95
/5
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Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-A contain minimal health hazards and provide excellent ingredient disclosure. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners/5967-BabyganicsAllPurposeSurfaceWipesFragranceFree/?formulation=6958" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>

Highlights

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<p>The Cruelty-Free label indicates that a product says their product is free from animal testing, but without certifications such as PETAs Beauty Without Bunnies or Leaping Bunny, it cannot be verified.</p>

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$15.41

Product Details

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  • Made without ammonia, bleach, phthalates, sulfates, and fragrance-free.
  • Contains plant-derived cleaning agents and other thoughtful ingredients.
  • Durable and non-abrasive wipes suitable for a variety of surfaces.
  • Quick and convenient for cleaning kitchen counters, high chairs, walls, hardwood floors, and fixtures.
  • Not suitable for use on babies or bodies.
  • Product is not tested on animals.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Gentle
  • Effective
  • Non-toxic

Cons Mentioned

  • Dry

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.


Ingredients: Water, Decyl Glucoside (Plant-Derived Cleanser), Trisodium Ethylenediamine Disuccinate (Chelator), Methylisothiazolinone (Preservative)

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.

All Purpose Wipes, Sweet Lavender - Dapple Baby

All Purpose Wipes, Sweet Lavender - Dapple Baby
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.8
/5
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Highlights

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<p>The Cruelty-Free label indicates that a product says their product is free from animal testing, but without certifications such as PETAs Beauty Without Bunnies or Leaping Bunny, it cannot be verified.</p>
<p>The Vegan label indicates that a brand says their product does not contain animal-derived ingredients, but without certifications such as Certified Vegan, it cannot be verified.</p>
<p>The Made in USA label indicates that a product has substantial U.S. content and manufacturing.</p>

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$17.98

Product Details

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  • Quickly cleans grime and sticky fingerprints from surfaces like toys, highchairs, and car seats without harsh chemical residue.
  • Powered by plants for effective cleaning on all surfaces without alcohol or sanitizing wipe residue.
  • Pediatrician and dermatologist tested, hypoallergenic, and free from parabens, sulfates, phthalates, mineral oil, synthetic dyes, chlorine, alcohol, SLS, SLES, MEA, DEA, TEA.
  • Lightly fragranced with natural lavender essential oil, containing no synthetic fragrances.
  • Comes in a convenient travel pack with a resealable pouch containing 30 wipes for on-the-go use and an easy-dispense canister containing 75 wipes for home use.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Moist
  • Durable
  • Pleasant

Cons Mentioned

  • Bulky

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.


Ingredients: Purified Water, Glycerin, Decyl Glucoside, Malic Acid, Gluconolactone, Lavandula Angustifolia (Lavender) Oil, Potassium Sorbate, Sodium Benzoate

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.

All Purpose Surface Wipes, Fresh Citrus - Hello Bello

All Purpose Surface Wipes, Fresh Citrus - Hello Bello
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.8
/5
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Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-B are generally safe and offer good ingredient transparency, even if they have a few moderate-concern components. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners/10530-HelloBelloAllPurposeSurfaceWipesFreshCitrusScent/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
<p>The Leaping Bunny certification assures that products are genuinely cruelty-free, verified through rigorous audits and a comprehensive Supplier Monitoring System. <a href="https://www.leapingbunny.org/brand/hello-bello" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>

Highlights

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<p>The Vegan label indicates that a brand says their product does not contain animal-derived ingredients, but without certifications such as Certified Vegan, it cannot be verified.</p>
<p>The Made in USA label indicates that a product has substantial U.S. content and manufacturing.</p>

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$5.98

Product Details

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  • Formulated with a powerful, plant-based formula that is suitable for everyday use on a variety of surfaces.
  • Effective for cleaning common messes on items such as counters, strollers, high chairs, and toys.
  • Simple application process: wipe surface and let air dry. Spot testing recommended for uncertain areas.
  • Excludes artificial dyes, fragrances, phenoxyethanol, and methylisothiazolinone, making it a safer choice for families.
  • Designed with a commitment to high quality and affordability, aligning with the brand’s mission to offer premium products accessible to everyone.
  • Vegan and cruelty-free, ensuring no animal testing or animal-derived ingredients are used.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Effective
  • Convenient
  • Safe

Cons Mentioned

  • Dry

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.


Ingredients: Water, Sodium Benzoate, Polyaminopropyl Biguanide, Hydroxyacetophenone, Gluconolactone, Citric Acid, Ethylhexylglycerin, Decyl Glucoside, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis Oil, Wipe

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.

Vinegar Cleaning Wipes, Eucalyptus - Aunt Fannie's

Vinegar Cleaning Wipes, Eucalyptus - Aunt Fannie's
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.75
/5
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Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-A contain minimal health hazards and provide excellent ingredient disclosure. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners/6456-AuntFanniesCleaningVinegarWipesEucalyptus/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
<p>The Leaping Bunny certification assures that products are genuinely cruelty-free, verified through rigorous audits and a comprehensive Supplier Monitoring System. <a href="https://www.leapingbunny.org/brand/aunt-fannies" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>

Highlights

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<p>The Vegan label indicates that a brand says their product does not contain animal-derived ingredients, but without certifications such as Certified Vegan, it cannot be verified.</p>
<p>The Made in USA label indicates that a product has substantial U.S. content and manufacturing.</p>

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GOOD user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the bottom third of the best products.
Est. Price
$8.69

Product Details

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  • Contains 35 eucalyptus scented wipes for convenient household cleaning from kitchen to bathroom with a fresh scent.
  • Made with vinegar, plant-based cleansers, and essential oils, safe for use on food surfaces such as counters and high chair trays.
  • Biodegradable and compostable, formulated without alcohol or harsh chemicals.
  • Vinegar wipes are EWG A-rated for safety, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
  • Cruelty-free products that are made with essential oil scents, designed to be people and pet-friendly.
  • Partnership with the Environmental Working Group (EWG) to produce wellness-inspired ingredients that care for homes and the environment.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Effective
  • Natural
  • Safe

Cons Mentioned

  • Smelly

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.


Ingredients: Distilled White Vinegar, Sugar Surfactant (Caprylyl/Myristyl Glucoside), Polyglyceryl-6 Caprylate, Polyglyceryl-4 Caprate, Juniperus Mexicana Oil, Rosemary Oil, Lavender Oil, Eucalyptus Oil, Lavandin Oil

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.

Everything Household Cleaner & Stain Remover Wipes, Lemon - MomRemedy

Everything Household Cleaner & Stain Remover Wipes, Lemon - MomRemedy
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.75
/5
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Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-B are generally safe and offer good ingredient transparency, even if they have a few moderate-concern components. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners/10465-MomRemedyEverythingHouseholdCleanerStainRemoverWipesLemonScent/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
<p>The Green Seal certification signifies that a product has been rigorously evaluated against strict environmental and health standards, ensuring it meets high benchmarks for sustainability and safety. <a href="https://certified.greenseal.org/product/momremedy-everything-household-cleaner-and-stain-remover-momremedy" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>

Highlights

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<p>The Made in USA label indicates that a product has substantial U.S. content and manufacturing.</p>

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$16.02

Product Details

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  • Made with plant-based ingredients and formulated with hydrogen peroxide for a powerful cleaning effect and stain removal.
  • Non-toxic formulation safe for use across various home environments when used as directed.
  • Compatible with multiple surfaces including granite counters, marble, floors, stainless steel, and can also be used on clothing, upholstery, and carpets.
  • Effective in removing household messes, leaving surfaces with a streak-free shine.
  • Contains no added fragrances, sulfates, or phthalates, featuring a natural lemon scent derived from citrus peels.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Effective
  • Versatile
  • Safe

Cons Mentioned

  • Expensive

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.


Ingredients: Water, Alcohols C9-11: Ethoxylated, 1.4% Hydrogen Peroxide, D-Limonene, Wipe

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.

Essentials Disinfecting Wipes, Lemon Orchard - Arm & Hammer

Essentials Disinfecting Wipes, Lemon Orchard - Arm & Hammer
Welpr Rating
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4.75
/5
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Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-B are generally safe and offer good ingredient transparency, even if they have a few moderate-concern components. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners/7819-ArmHammerEssentialsDisinfectingWipesLemonOrchard/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$23.64

Product Details

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  • Kills 99.9% of viruses and bacteria on hard surfaces.
  • Meets the EPA’s criteria for use against virus and bacteria.
  • Uses citrus-based disinfection without harsh chemicals like Quats, bleach, or ammonia.
  • Suitable for multiple surfaces including kitchens, bathrooms, classrooms, pet areas, gyms, car interiors, and dorms.
  • Efficient against MRSA, Strep, Staph, E. Coli, and Salmonella.
  • Safe for use on stainless steel, sealed granite, finished hardwood, tubs and shower walls, toilet exteriors, and hard nonporous surfaces of car interiors.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Effective
  • Fresh-smelling
  • Convenient

Cons Mentioned

  • Sticky

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.


Ingredients: Deionized Water, Alcohols C12-16 Ethoxylated, Sodium Octyl Sulfate, Citric Acid, Isopropyl Alcohol, Fragrance, Limonene, Caprylic Acid, Glycerin, Sodium Bicarbonate

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.

Multi-Purpose Cleaning Wipes, Fragrance Free - Good Life Solutions

Multi-Purpose Cleaning Wipes, Fragrance Free - Good Life Solutions
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.45
/5
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Highlights

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<p>The Made in USA label indicates that a product has substantial U.S. content and manufacturing.</p>

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GOOD user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the bottom third of the best products.
Est. Price
$11.97

Product Details

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  • Plant-based, multipurpose cleaning wipes effective on a variety of surfaces, including countertops, furniture, floors, and car interiors.
  • Fragrance-free and unscented, suitable for users with sensitivities to smells.
  • Biodegradable and durable, made from cotton fabric, designed for multiple uses without disintegrating.
  • Free from harsh chemicals, making them safe for use around children and pets.
  • Designed for use on all hard, nonporous surfaces such as appliances, desks, and bathroom surfaces.
  • Manufactured in the USA with a recyclable packaging.
  • Leaping Bunny certified, ensuring that the product is never tested on animals.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Biodegradable
  • Sturdy
  • Effective

Cons Mentioned

  • Expensive

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.


Ingredients: Water, Polysorbate 20, Glycerin, Cocamidopropyl Betaine, Citric Acid

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all cleaning products on Welpr.

Scentiva Disinfecting Wipes, Pacific Breeze & Coconut - Clorox

Scentiva Disinfecting Wipes, Pacific Breeze & Coconut - Clorox
Welpr Rating
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4.4
/5
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Certifications

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<p>Products rated EWG-A contain minimal health hazards and provide excellent ingredient disclosure. <a href="https://www.ewg.org/guides/cleaners/7158-CloroxScentivaDisinfectingWipesPacificBreezeCoconut/" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>
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User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$16.42

Product Details

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  • Combines Clorox cleaning and disinfection power with the scent of Pacific Breeze & Coconut.
  • Bleach-free and suitable for multi-purpose use.
  • Effective on tough grease and grime.
  • Applicable for use on a variety of surfaces including garbage cans, kitchen countertops, sinks, bathroom surfaces, appliances, and car interiors.
  • Safe to use around pet areas.
  • Eliminates 99.9% of germs.
  • Designed to leave behind a long-lasting, uplifting scent.

Pros & Cons

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Pros Mentioned

  • Scented
  • Durable
  • Cleans

Cons Mentioned

  • Residue

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use this EWG tool.


Ingredients: N-Alkyl (C14, 60%; C16, 30%; C12, 5%; C18, 5%) Dimethyl Benzyl Ammonium Chloride, N-Alkyl (C12, 68%; C14, 32%) Dimethyl Ethylbenzyl Ammonium Chloride, Wipe

Our Product Rating System

Our Product Rating System

First, Camille (co-creator of Welpr) hand picks cleaner product options from a variety of sources.

Next, we collect information about each product's safety, consumer satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing.

Finally, we run all this information through an algorithm that calculates the Welpr Rating.

Welpr Rating:

5.0/5

The Welpr Rating takes into account 3 things:

  1. Product Safety
  2. Consumer Satisfaction
  3. Ethics & Environment
Product safety

Part 1: Product safety

We evaluate safety information from 3rd party organizations (e.g. EWG, Made Safe, etc.). Instead of relying solely on any one of these companies for safety information, we assess all of them.

Consumer satisfaction

Part 2: Consumer satisfaction

We scour the web for consumer ratings and reviews to verify products are not only cleaner options, but also effective. Products can either be Above Average, Average, or Below average for their respective category (e.g. cleaning products).

Ethics & Environment

Part 3: Ethics & Environment

When you buy a product, you’re supporting that company with your dollars. We believe it’s important to support ethical companies, so we pool together certifications that verify a company's ethics and environmental impact.

Common Harmful Chemicals in Cleaning Wipes

Chemical Name

Why it’s harmful

Benzyldimethyl(tridecyl)ammonium chloride

Benzyldimethyl(tridecyl)ammonium chloride is a mixture recognized for its bactericidal properties. It is used topically in medicaments, deodorants, mouthwashes, and as surgical antiseptics, and also function as preservatives and emulsifiers in drugs and cosmetics. However, the EPA's assessment based on industry data suggests that this substance presents a significant risk to human health. Moreover, a peer-reviewed study has indicated that some quaternary ammonium compounds can lead to reproductive toxicity in animals.

Formaldehyde

Formaldehyde is a colorless, flammable gas with a pungent smell that's naturally produced in small quantities in human bodies and is also known as methanal amongst other names. It's used in the production of various items such as fertilizers, paper, plywood, and urea-formaldehyde resins as well as in some foods and household products like antiseptics, medicines, and cosmetics. Exposure to formaldehyde, which can occur through breathing contaminated indoor air, tobacco smoke, or ambient urban air can lead to respiratory symptoms, irritation of the eyes, nose and throat and has been linked to lung and nasopharyngeal cancer as well as leukemia. The EPA considers formaldehyde a probable human carcinogen (Group B1) and inhaling it can cause bronchospasm and pulmonary edema. Commercially, it's sold as formalin in solutions of 37%, 44%, or 50% and long-term exposure can cause first-degree burns, skin sensitization, squamous cell nasal cancer, and chronic pulmonary obstruction.

Methylisothiazolinone

Methylisothiazolinone can reportedly cause allergic contact dermatitis in workers who interact with products containing it. This substance is recognized as a contact allergen for consumers using cosmetics that include it. It can cause skin burns and sensitization, and inhaling it may lead to corrosive injuries in the upper respiratory tract and lungs. Ingesting this substance is harmful, and inhalation is toxic. This preservative is linked to the category of isothiazolinones.

Sources: 
Butylphenyl Methylpropional

Butylphenyl methylpropional, also known as lilial, is a chemical compound commonly used in cosmetics and laundry powders. It is found naturally in crow-dipper and tomato plants and is also produced synthetically in large quantities. In May 2019, the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) deemed its use in cosmetics as unsafe. Following animal studies indicating reproductive toxicity, the EU banned its use in cosmetics by March 2022. Moreover, butylphenyl methylpropional can sometimes serve as an allergen, potentially leading to contact dermatitis in susceptible individuals.

Butoxydiglycol

Diethylene glycol ethers is a chemical that has been found to have hematologic, liver, and kidney effects. Exposure to large amounts, about 250 mg/kg/day, can lead to central nervous system depression and other organ damage in rats and may decrease red blood cell counts. It does not show genotoxic, mutagenic, liver, kidney, blood, or reproductive toxicity in animals or humans, but it is classified as an exceptional allergen. The material can be absorbed through the skin and is identified as a mild skin irritant and a severe eye irritant. Notably, its toxicity is lower than that of ethylene glycol ethers.

Diethylene Glycol Monobutyl Ether

Diethylene glycol ethers is a chemical that has been found to have hematologic, liver, and kidney effects. Exposure to large amounts, about 250 mg/kg/day, can lead to central nervous system depression and other organ damage in rats and may decrease red blood cell counts. It does not show genotoxic, mutagenic, liver, kidney, blood, or reproductive toxicity in animals or humans, but it is classified as an exceptional allergen. The material can be absorbed through the skin and is identified as a mild skin irritant and a severe eye irritant. Notably, its toxicity is lower than that of ethylene glycol ethers.

Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether

Diethylene Glycol Monoethyl Ether, when administered orally or through the skin in doses exceeding 800-1000 mg/kg/day, can cause central nervous system depression and changes to the liver and kidneys in animals. However, it doesn't exhibit significant developmental toxicity at these levels. The chemical is not expected to have adverse effects unless workers are exposed to its heated liquid mists. It is an eye irritant and provokes harm to the central nervous system, liver, kidneys, red blood cells, and reproductive system in animal feeding studies. Despite these potential harms, it is poorly absorbed through the skin.

Galaxolide

Galaxolide is recognized as an established contact allergen in humans, according to the Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety's 2011 report on fragrance allergens in cosmetic products. This compound has been identified as a reproductive effector and acts as a moderate skin irritant, as documented in The Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances (RTECS).

Quaternium-15

Quaternium-15 is a preservative commonly used in cosmetics which is known to significantly contribute to allergic contact dermatitis in users. This condition has been reported in various professions, including hairdressers, machine maintenance engineers at a chicken processing plant, and photocopy workers. Notably, Quaternium-15, as a formaldehyde releaser, increases dermatitis risk. However, rinse-off products typically pose a lower risk of resulting in allergic contact dermatitis.

Sodium Hypochlorite

Sodium hypochlorite is a clear liquid with a strong chlorine odor, predominantly used as bleaching agents or disinfectants in commercial cleaning solutions and water purification systems. Sodium hypochlorite is often used in a dissolved state. It is corrosive to skin and can cause pulmonary edema from high inhalation exposure. Its ingestion can lead to methemoglobinemia, and a 3% to 5% solution causes burnings of the mouth and throat. The anhydrous form of this compound is highly explosive.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate is recognised as a skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant according to ICSC. It may cause allergic reactions and eye irritation as stated by the HSDB. Exposure may even result in eye burns, as per CAMEO. Depending on its form - which may range from a solid (90-98% purity), to a paste (30-41%), or an aqueous solution (28-50%) - it can significantly irritate skin and eyes, with adverse effects escalating with increased concentration. Despite these hazards, it is not a skin sensitizer according to CHEMINFO, while eChemPortal: ERMA and MSDSonline endorse its classification as an irritant.

Sodium Metasilicate

Sodium metasilicate is a type of compound that includes varying amounts of sodium oxide (Na2-O) and silica (Si2-O), and its aqueous solutions are heavily alkaline and corrosive, typically containing weight ratios of silica to sodium oxide between 1.6 to 3.8. It is a strong irritant for skin and eyes and can be toxic if ingested in high doses. In its aerosol form, it can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. The compound, tested at specific molar ratios, has shown corrosive effects on rabbit skin but hasn't shown any sensitizing effects in a local lymph node assay study on mice. Both hydrous and anhydrous forms, including Sodium metasilicate pentahydrate, Sodium metasilicate nonahydrate, Sodium silicate, and Potassium silicate, share similar uses and adverse effects, mainly due to their corrosive effects on metal and tissue resulting from their alkalinity.

Trichloroethylene

Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a colorless, nonflammable liquid primarily used as an industrial solvent, featuring in products like adhesives, paint removers, and correction fluids. It's not natural to the environment but has been found in groundwater and surface waters due to its manufacture and disposal. Exposure to TCE, either short-term or chronic, can impact the central nervous system and cause symptoms such as dizziness, confusion and weakness, while also affecting other organs like the liver and kidneys. It has even been linked to several types of cancer, particularly in the kidneys, liver, cervix and lymphatic system. Although TCE itself poses a low fire hazard, under certain conditions like exposure to flames or other specific metals, it can produce phosgene, a highly toxic gas, or react violently with other strong oxidizers. To handle or transport TCE safely, it should be stored in steel drums in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.

Isopropyl Alcohol

Isopropyl alcohol has been shown to cause narcosis in animals during acute studies, as cited by ACGIH. However, according to research by Zimmerman, it is not hepatotoxic in either experimental animal studies or in human exposures. It's known to be a skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritant, and if inhaled in high concentrations, it can cause CNS depression, as indicated by the ICSC.

Benzalkonium Chloride

Benzalkonium chloride (BAC) is an organic salt known for its robust antimicrobial properties, effective against various bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It is frequently employed in healthcare settings like hospitals for disinfecting instruments and surfaces. Additionally, BAC is present in many consumer items, including hand sanitizers, wipes, eye solutions, nasal sprays, and personal care products such as soaps and shampoos. Although typically safe when used as instructed, BAC can lead to skin and eye irritation, particularly at elevated concentrations.

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About The Author

Camille May

Hey, I’m Camille, co-creator of Welpr and your clean living guide. After selling my last company in the health food space, I went non-toxic to heal an autoimmune condition. It did wonders for my health, but navigating which products to buy wasn’t easy. We created Welpr to make that journey feel a little bit easier. When I’m not working on Welpr, you can find me at the farmers market or unwinding in the sauna, always in bed at 9pm with a good book. I live in my hometown of Austin, TX with my pit bull, Romeo.