Baby wipes, wet towels, naps, whatever you want to call them, they all essentially serve the same purpose and end their useful lives in landfills. Wet wipes may be convenient for you, but no matter how they end up on Earth, they are very problematic for the planet.
Wet wipes are disposable, moist sanitary paper products used for personal hygiene and household cleaning. These handy inventions are often used to clean up during diaper changes, disinfect surfaces in the home or workplace, and even replace toilet paper for extra cleanliness. And since COVID-19, the demand for disposable wipes has only increased.
abandoned
The synthetic fibers that make up wet wipes cannot be composted or recycled. So once you use it, throw it away and head to the landfill. There, they are invisible to most people, but never far from their minds. Because of these pesky synthetic fibers, wipes don’t break down and make up a significant portion of non-biodegradable waste in landfills.
messy
Unfortunately, our trash doesn’t always end up in the trash can. People who use wet wipes on the go often end up discarding used wipes into the environment. A 2023 study found that wet wipe production would increase by 6 percent from 2021 to next year, while a 2014 Marine Conservation Society coastal cleanup found that 50% increase Wet wipes have been littered on British beaches for the past year. We have seen a significant increase in this unfortunate practice amidst the coronavirus pandemic.
Wet wipes that end up in the ocean can be deadly to marine animals, usually settling in their stomachs and leading to starvation. These convenient wipes are quickly becoming major environmental pollutants.
flushed
Some wet wipes are advertised as “flushable,” making them a convenient alternative to toilet paper for those who want to get super clean. In fact, 22% of people surveyed in 2023 said they flush wet wipes, even though wipes are the cause of 75% of drain clogs. The idea that wet wipes can be flushed down the toilet Sewerage authorities objected. Anywhere. As it turns out, these wipes don’t break down the same way as toilet paper and can form solidified clumps that can clog drains and drains. clog the sewer systemplacing a burden on the city government. $441 million annuallyIt goes without saying that chemicals and substances contaminate waterways, oceans, and beaches.
plus! not very healthy
Wet wipes not only have a negative impact on the environment, but can also have a negative impact on human health. Wet wipes contain a mixture of chemicals to enhance their cleaning power. These chemicals are toxic and can be harmful to anyone who comes into contact with them. Many wipe brands contain certain fragrances, preservatives, and cleaning agents that can irritate the skin and cause painful rashes and inflammation. This is a tricky combination since wet wipes are often used in direct contact with the skin.
The price of convenience
This era’s obsession with convenience comes with significant environmental costs, as exemplified by the negative effects of disposable wipes.
A sustainable choice is to move away from convenient disposable products and consider reusing them. There are many great alternatives to wet wipes, including a good old washcloth. We also recommend investing in paperless towels Or you can make your own. Learn about DIY “paperless” towels and find out where you can buy similar eco-friendly products.
Editor’s note: This article was originally published on November 8, 2016 and updated in November 2024.
