Disinfecting Wipes

Trash

Wipes should always be placed in the trash container. They are not recyclable or compostable. Wipes are often a mix of fiber and plastic. Some wipes include chemicals and dyes. 

Never flush wipes, even if marketed as “flushable.”
Wipes cause major blockages (called fatbergs) in sewer systems. A fatberg is a rock-like mass of waste matter in a sewer system formed by the combination of flushed non-biodegradable solids, such as wet wipes; fat, oil and grease (FOG) deposits; menstrual and hygiene products; and more. 

NOflush

Absolutely Not Flushable

Wipes should never be flushed down the toilet even if labeled as “flushable.” Wipes do not break down as they move onto the water treatment plant and clog the filtering screens.

Ways to Reduce

cloth-wipe

Use Cleaning Cloths Instead

Consider switching to reusable cleaning cloths. Cloth wipes are more eco-friendly because they can be washed and reused.

Use Paper Towels Instead

If set on a disposable option, consider switching to paper towels. Paper towels are more eco-friendly because they are plastic-free.

Purchase Natural Cleaners

Consider switching to more eco-friendly cleaners. Chemical cleaners can expose your household to a variety of harmful ingredients and gases. Check out the EWG’s Guide to Healthy Cleaning or follow these easy recipes from Real Simple to make your own natural cleaners.

Use Up Products

Avoid throwing away partially full containers; try to use up the wipes completely before disposing of them. This increases the lifespan of these products, reduces waste and saves money.

Did You Know?

Disinfecting Wipes Can Be Harmful to Your Health

The chemicals in disinfecting wipes are known to trigger asthma, allergies, and other health concerns. Read more from EWG.

Not All Cleaning Wipes are the Same

Did you know there’s a difference between cleaning and disinfecting wipes? While cleaning wipes do help to remove some dirt, bacteria, and germs, disinfectant wipes will kill specific bacteria and germs as indicated on labels. Not all disinfectant wipes can be used interchangeably, so make sure the wipes you are using actually fit your needs.