| Product use and classification | Define the wipe’s intended use, target user, application area, claims, and destination markets before requesting quotations. | Ask the supplier to identify the product category it is quoting and provide the applicable compliance documents for the intended market. Check requirements with a qualified regulatory adviser where classification is unclear. | Do not assume that all wet wipes follow the same rules. Requirements can vary by use, claims, ingredients, and market. |
| Nonwoven substrate | State the desired fiber composition, substrate type, basis weight in g/m², sheet dimensions, color, texture, and performance requirements. | Request a technical data sheet and representative samples. Compare the stated specifications with test results and the approved sample. | Set acceptance ranges for each measurable property; there is no single basis weight or substrate type suitable for every application. |
| Strength and absorbency | Specify relevant dry and wet tensile strength, absorbency, linting, softness, and dimensional stability requirements. | Request test methods, results, and sample identification. Confirm that testing conditions and methods are stated so results can be compared consistently. | Evaluate the finished wipe, not only the dry substrate. Wetting solution and converting can affect performance. |
| Flushability and disposal claims | State the intended disposal method and whether any flushability claim is required. | Request substantiation for the exact finished product and intended market. Review applicable local guidance and test protocols; do not rely on a substrate claim alone. | Do not describe a wipe as flushable or biodegradable without suitable evidence supporting the specific claim. |
| Formulation and material safety | Request the ingredient or material information relevant to the product category, along with specifications for the wetting solution and packaging that contacts it. | Review safety data where applicable, ingredient documentation, product specifications, and any required assessment for the destination market. Confirm that documents refer to the proposed formulation. | Document requirements depend on product classification and market. A safety data sheet alone does not establish overall product compliance. |
| Quality management | Request current quality-management certificates, the site address, certificate scope, and the manufacturing activities covered. | Check the certificate number, validity dates, issuing body, scope, and facility details with the issuer or its official verification system. Confirm that the relevant production site is covered. | A certificate is useful evidence of a management system, but it does not guarantee that every product or batch meets specification. |
| Cosmetics-related manufacturing | If the wipe is regulated as a cosmetic in the target market, ask about relevant cosmetic good manufacturing practices and supporting records. | For applicable EU cosmetic products, review whether manufacturing follows the relevant good manufacturing practice framework, such as EN ISO 22716. Verify the scope and evidence with the supplier. | Applicability depends on product classification and market. Do not treat a GMP document as a substitute for the required product documentation. |
| Regulatory evidence by market | List each destination market and request a product-specific compliance document set for each one. | For EU products, assess applicable requirements, which may include REACH obligations and, for products classified as cosmetics, Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009. For US cosmetics, check applicable MoCRA requirements and current FDA guidance. | Regulatory obligations depend on product type, ingredients, claims, and role in the supply chain. Confirm current requirements before placing an order. |
| Traceability and batch control | Request a sample batch record format, lot-coding explanation, raw-material traceability process, and change-control procedure. | Ask the supplier to demonstrate how a finished-product lot can be linked to production records and relevant incoming materials. Review a redacted example if records are confidential. | Agree how formulation, substrate, process, and packaging changes will be communicated and approved. |
| Factory capability and capacity | Confirm the production site, converting and packing capabilities, available formats, realistic capacity, lead times, and subcontracted operations. | Use a site audit, qualified third-party audit, or documented virtual assessment. Compare stated capability with equipment, process flow, and production records. | Distinguish the actual manufacturing site from a sales office or trading intermediary, and identify any outsourced steps. |
| Packaging and shelf life | Specify pack format, closure type, label information, shipping configuration, and required shelf life under defined storage conditions. | Request packaging specifications and shelf-life or stability evidence for the proposed formulation and pack. Confirm that the evidence covers the intended storage conditions. | Packaging performance and moisture retention should be evaluated on the finished product and proposed pack configuration. |
| Commercial terms and samples | Obtain a written quotation covering MOQ, tooling or setup charges, sample costs, lead time, payment terms, Incoterms® rule, and quotation validity. | Compare like-for-like quotations and confirm the named seller, manufacturing location, product specification, and responsibility for testing and documentation. | Approve a production-representative sample and a written specification before issuing a purchase order. |