You may have heard that some Target brand baby wipes have been recalled. CHOP experts in public health and infectious diseases have put together some questions and answers to help you understand what this news means for your family.  

What is being recalled?

Certain lots of Target Up & Up baby wipes are being recalled, including:

• Up & Up Fragrance-Free Baby Wipes
• Up & Up Fresh Cucumber Scented Baby Wipes  

This recall does not include all baby wipes. It only includes certain Target Up & Up wipes.

Why are these wipes being recalled?

Consumer complaints about discolored wipes and adverse events potentially associated with the product led to a manufacturer investigation. After testing, bacteria were found in some samples.

The bacteria are called Burkholderia cepacia complex and Burkholderia gladioli. These bacteria can sometimes cause infections. Most healthy children who used the wipes and feel well will not need treatment. Children who are very young, have weakened immune systems, or have certain medical conditions may be at higher risk.

What should I do if I have these wipes?

Stop using them immediately. You can return them to Target to receive a full refund.  

If you are not sure whether your wipes are part of the recall, check Target’s recall information or contact Target Guest Relations at 1-800-440-0680.

My child used these wipes. What should I do?

If your child has no symptoms: Stop using the wipes. If your child is acting like themselves and has no symptoms, thankfully, no treatment is needed right now. Watch your child and call your healthcare provider if symptoms develop or if you are worried.

If your child has mild skin irritation: Stop using the wipes. Gently clean the area with water. Call your healthcare provider if the rash gets worse, does not improve, or if you have concerns.

If your child has concerning symptoms (see symptom details below): Seek medical care. This is especially important if your child has a weakened immune system or has a complex medical condition.

Children with certain predisposing conditions, such as cystic fibrosis (but infection in these patients occurs due to inhalation, not topical exposure), are more vulnerable to infection. Again, most children will have mild or no symptoms.

What symptoms should I watch for?

Possible symptoms include:

• Skin irritation, rash, or redness
• Eye irritation
• Fever
• Unusual fussiness

Seek care right away if your child has:

• Fever (especially infants under 3 months)
• Difficulty waking up (lethargy)
• Trouble breathing
• Poor feeding

Who is most at risk?

Some children may have a higher risk of infection, including:

• Children with weakened immune systems  
• Children with certain medical conditions, such as cystic fibrosis. (Of note: infection in these patients occurs due to inhaling it/breathing it in, not topical exposure on their skin).

These groups are more vulnerable to infection. Most children will have mild or no symptoms.

Are all baby wipes unsafe?

No, this recall only affects specific types of Target Up & Up wipes. Other brands and products are not impacted by this recall.

Where were these products sold, and who can I contact for help?

These wipes were sold at Target stores nationwide and online at Target.com.  

For refund or product questions, contact Target Guest Relations at 1-800-440-0680.

For health questions about your child, contact your child’s healthcare provider.