In 2018, the global wipes market was valued at approximately US$ 4,546.5 million and is projected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.8% from 2019 to 2030, ultimately reaching around US$ 16,188.9 million by the end of the forecast period.
A wipe is essentially a small, moist cloth designed for cleaning various surfaces. There is a wide array of wipes available in the market, including baby wipes, makeup removal wipes, cooling wipes, perfume wipes, body wipes, medical wipes, general cleaning wipes, pet wipes, intimate wipes, deodorant wipes, nail polish removal wipes, and antibacterial wipes, among others. These products are typically used with a gentle rubbing motion to effectively eliminate dirt or moisture from surfaces. One of the primary benefits of wipes is their convenience; they offer a quicker and simpler alternative to pouring a liquid cleaner and using a separate cloth or paper towel for cleaning tasks. Wipes cater to numerous personal and household needs. The rapid expansion of the global wipes market can be attributed to several factors, including the growth of the personal care sector in both developed and developing nations, as well as an increased demand for wipes spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, the rising popularity of biodegradable wipes and the growing preference for natural and chemical-free options are expected to create further opportunities for key players in the global wipes market.
The wipes market is categorized by type into several segments: baby wipes, facial wipes, moist flushable wipes, household wipes, and others. In 2018, the baby wipes segment was the largest within the wipes market. Furthermore, the household wipes segment is anticipated to witness significant growth during the forecast period. Factors such as an increasing birth rate, a growing population of working women, and advancements in healthcare practices are driving the global demand for baby wipes. Additionally, the household wipes segment is projected to expand rapidly in the coming years.
North America accounted for the largest share of the global wipes market in 2018. The demand for wipes in North American countries, particularly the United States and Canada, is expected to rise due to heightened awareness regarding specialty wipes and a strong emphasis on cleanliness and sanitation in various settings, including retail establishments, educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and public areas. Consumers, especially in the food service industry, are increasingly concerned about hygiene, quality, and the overall atmosphere of establishments. Negative experiences can lead to customer loss, further driving the demand for cleaning wipes in North America. Additionally, factors such as rapid urbanization and evolving lifestyles have contributed to a surge in the demand for personal care products, including baby wipes and facial wipes. The swift growth of online retail and ongoing product innovations are also playing a significant role in the expansion of the wipes market in North America.
Key players in the global wipes market include Reckitt Benckiser Group Plc, Procter & Gamble, S.C. Johnson & Son, The Clorox Company, Contac Inc., Diamond Wipes International Inc., DuPont de Nemours, Inc., Rockline Industries, Kimberly-Clark Corporation, and Nice-Pak Products, Inc., among others.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Wipes Market
The COVID-19 pandemic, which originated in Wuhan, China, in December 2019, has rapidly spread worldwide. Countries such as China, Italy, Iran, Spain, South Korea, France, Germany, and the United States have been significantly impacted, with high numbers of confirmed cases and fatalities reported as of March 2020. The pandemic has disrupted economies and industries globally due to lockdowns, travel restrictions, and business closures. The overall downturn in the market caused by COVID-19 has also hindered the growth of the wipes market, as factories have shut down, supply chains have been disrupted, and the global economy has faced challenges.
The overall size of the global wipes market has been determined through a combination of primary and secondary research methods. The research process begins with extensive secondary research, utilizing both internal and external sources to gather qualitative and quantitative data related to the wipes market. Additionally, numerous primary interviews are conducted with industry participants and experts to validate the data and analysis. Participants typically include industry professionals such as vice presidents, business development managers, market intelligence managers, and national sales managers, as well as external consultants like valuation experts, research analysts, and key opinion leaders specializing in the wipes market.