9 of the best baby washcloths and sponges 2024
DO YOU NEED A BABY WASHCLOTH OR SPONGE?
Baby washcloths (also called flannels) and sponges are often a lot softer than regular ones so are ideal for a baby’s delicate skin.
The alternatives are to use cotton wool or just rinse your baby with water.
What kind is best?
It’s down to personal preference whether you choose a washcloth or sponge. Some find the water-retaining powers of a sponge useful for rinsing the hair and body. And if you want an eco-friendly option a natural sponge will be a good choice as they are 100% biodegradable.
Baby washcloths are usually made from cotton but there is a growing number made partially or fully from bamboo. Bamboo makes a very soft washcloth and is a sustainable crop which uses a lot less water than cotton to grow. Some also believe it has natural antibacterial properties.
Muslin washcloths are also popular as they are very soft and dry quickly.
How often do you need to wash a baby washcloth?
It’s best to clean a washcloth after each use, especially in the first few months when your baby’s immune system is developing. This is because the damp cloth can become a breeding ground for bacteria.
How do you use a baby washcloth and sponge?
For the first month, they should only be used with plain water. After this you can add a baby body wash or soap. Gently clean your baby’s skin and make sure you get into all the creases.
If your baby hates baths, try placing a warm, wet washcloth over their chest while you wash them.
THE BEST BABY WASHCLOTHS AND SPONGES UK
This list has been narrowed down to the very best with thorough research and the following considered:
Consumer reviews
Best-seller lists
Recommendations from industry experts
Award-winning products
Personal experience and the products loved by other parents.
The list is updated annually. It was last updated on 6 January 2024.
If you buy through a link, we may earn a small affiliate commission. 5% of profits are donated to UK Baby Banks to help parents in need of essentials.
1. John Lewis Anyday baby sponges
A pack of two foam baby sponges.
They measure H9 x W4 x D9cm.
Long-lasting.
Suitable from birth.
2. Ikea Krama washcloths
A pack of ten 100% cotton cloths.
Machine washable.
30 x 30cm
Each has a hanging loop. There are different colours so could be shared amongst a family.
3. Ramer Ultra Soft Baby SpongeS
This pack of award-winning sponges has one to ‘top’ and one to ‘tail’ your baby.
Superfine texture, ideal for a baby’s delicate skin.
Hypoallergenic and dermatologically tested.
They dry hard to discourage bacteria growth.
Machine washable at 40˚C.
Available in three colours.
Made in the UK.
4. Baby Buddy Natural Bath Sponge
An eco-friendly and sustainably harvested natural sea sponge.
100% biodegradable.
Extremely soft and retains a lot of water to make rinsing easy.
Made in the USA.
5. Little Gubbins bamboo washcloths
Six bamboo baby washcloths.
Very soft and suitable for newborns.
Made from 100% sustainable bamboo.
25 x 25cm
6. Cuddledry bamboo washcloths
Set of three soft washcloths.
Made from bamboo and cotton.
Each measures 20 x 20cm.
Machine washable at 40°C and tumble dry low.
7. aden + anais essentials muslin washcloths
Pack of three soft washcloths, each with three layers of 100% cotton muslin.
Each measures 27.5 x 27.5cm.
Hanging loop for drying.
Machine washable.
Comes in a nice box.
Available in different designs.
8. Boots baby washcloths
Three great value baby washcloths.
Made from 75% cotton and 25% polyester.
25cm x 25cm
Machine washable at 40˚C.
9. JOHNSON’s baby top to toe Washcloths
Pre-moistened disposable washcloths for topping and tailing your baby.
Designed for delicate skin.
Paediatrician and dermatologist tested.
No dyes, parabens, phthalates, sulphates, alcohol or soap.
Contains plastic. Do not flush.
MORE OF THE BEST:
Baby baths • baby bath towels • baby body washes and shampoos • bath thermometers • baby lotion • sleepsuits • cots and cot beds • baby blankets • muslin cloths • swaddling • baby monitors • baby wipes
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