Are Wet Wipes Flushable?
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Are Wet Wipes Flushable?
The simple, authoritative answer from public sources like Water UK is a resounding "no." The vast majority of wet wipes, including many labelled as “flushable,” should never go down the toilet.
Wet wipes are a leading cause of sewer blockages and the notorious 'fatbergs' that cost the UK an estimated £100 million a year to clear. Unlike toilet paper, which is designed to break down quickly in water, most wet wipes contain plastic fibres that remain intact. These wipes snag on pipes and congeal with fats, oils, and grease, creating monstrous, rock-solid masses that cause untold damage to our plumbing infrastructure.
To combat this confusion, Water UK previously introduced the ‘Fine to Flush’ certification. This mark was designed to give consumers confidence that a small number of specific wipes had passed rigorous tests to prove they would disintegrate in the sewer system. However, the certification was phased out in 2024 to simplify the message and avoid public confusion.
Today, the message from water companies and the government is clearer than ever: Bin the Wipe. This simple guidance applies to all wet wipes, from baby wipes and cleansing wipes to moist toilet tissues. Even if a product claims to be plastic-free or biodegradable, it may still not break down quickly enough to avoid causing a blockage.
To protect our sewers and prevent expensive plumbing issues at home, always dispose of your wet wipes in the bin. When in doubt, always bin it.
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