Can Biodegradable Wipes Be Flushed?

Biodegradable wipes are an amazing eco-friendly solution for those looking to reduce their environmental Impact. But it’s important to clear up a common misconception: biodegradable does not mean flushable. Flushing these wipes can cause serious damage to both sewage infrastructure and the environment.

While biodegradable wipes are designed to break down over time, this process is slow—too slow for the conditions found in sewage systems. Unlike toilet paper, which disintegrates quickly in water, biodegradable wipes can take longer to break down, creating blockages and contributing to fatbergs—massive, sewer-clogging accumulations of fat, oil, grease, and insoluble materials.

Biodegradation relies on specific environmental conditions like adequate heat, moisture, and microorganisms, which simply don’t exist in sewer pipes. Compost piles and landfills can provide these conditions, but sewer systems are built to move waste quickly, not to decompose it.

The impact of flushing wipes is far from trivial. According to Water UK, wet wipes are responsible for 93% of materials causing blockages in sewers. These blockages can trigger sewage overflows that spill untreated waste into rivers and oceans, polluting ecosystems and endangering wildlife.

The good news? There are responsible ways to dispose of biodegradable wipes that protect both plumbing and the planet. Our 100% biodegradable wipes, for instance, decompose within 60 days when placed in a compost bin or landfill. In these environments, natural conditions allow the breakdown process to occur safely and efficiently. Composting, in particular, transforms waste into nutrient-rich soil, which is a powerful way to close the loop.

If composting isn’t an option, placing used wipes in the bin is still a much safer choice than flushing. Even in landfills, biodegradable wipes break down far more quickly than traditional alternatives.

Making informed disposal choices helps protect our water systems, reduce environmental harm, and support sustainable living. So next time you reach for a wipe, remember: biodegradable doesn't mean flushable!