How to Dispose of Biodegradable Wipes (And What NOT to Do)

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James Miller
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James is an environmentalist, sustainability expert and senior editor at TheRoundup, specializing in testing non-toxic, organic and eco-friendly products. James, his wife and two daughters believe in chemical-free and zero-waste living. They aim to leave the planet in a better state than we found it, for future generations to enjoy.
James Miller
Updated: March 15, 2024

Do you know how to dispose of biodegradable wipes properly?

My Sister-in-law and Alfie were visiting last month, and we got talking about the best biodegradable baby wipes (Miller parties are wild! ????).

I was surprised to hear that some of her mom’s group friends are convinced you can toss biodegradable wipes in the trash, and they’ll magically disappear before they get to the landfill.

After putting the record straight (I MIGHT get a little preachy after one too many glasses of organic merlot!) I thought it would make an interesting article.

Trash? Recycling box? Compost pile? How exactly are you supposed to dispose of biodegradable wipes?

Read on, and I’ll reveal all. And no preaching…promise!

Biodegradable vs Compostable

The terms biodegradable and compostable have become somewhat muddled over the years, with many consumers now thinking they mean the same thing.

Biodegradable

Biodegradable simply means that something can be broken down over time by microorganisms.

Everything is technically biodegradable, but that’s not always a good thing.

For example, a plastic bag could be considered biodegradable. However, it takes hundreds of years and leaches toxins into the ground.

Compostable

Compostable is a bit more specific and is a human-controlled process designed to break down items into all-natural components that can be used back in the soil.

For something to be fully compostable, it must only leave natural, non-toxic components behind.

The conditions need to be just right for composting to be done successfully. This is why home composting can take much longer than commercial composting.

Further Reading

Arabella covers the topic of biodegradable and compostable in more detail in her what does biodegradable mean article.

How to Dispose of Biodegradable Wet Wipes the Eco-Friendly Way

wet wipes

Unfortunately, the only place for most biodegradable wipes is the trash can.

Some might be able to be disposed of in other ways, but it very much depends on the materials and additives used.

Always read the label for full disposal instructions. And, if in doubt, ask the manufacturer. If they’re not helpful, drop me an email, and I’ll see what I can find out about that specific brand.

How to Dispose of Compostable Wet Wipes the Eco-Friendly Way

Home Composting

If the compostable wipes you use are 100% natural, with no added plastic or nasty chemicals, then they should be fine to toss in your compost bin, ready to go on your compost heap.

To help speed up the home composting process, you should cut the wet wipes into small pieces. You also might want to add some of the following to your compost heap:

Commercial Composting

Some compostable wet wipes will only break down fully in commercial compacting facilities.

Ensure you place wet wipes for composting in the compostable/garden/brown bin and not the regular trash.

It’s also worth contacting your local authority to check that they accept wet wipes.

Burning

I don’t like to recommend burning stuff. However, due to the chemical-free nature of genuinely compostable wet wipes, they can be burned with a clear conscience.

This method of burning wipes safely makes the most sense when out camping, as you probably have a campfire roaring every night anyway.

Check that the wipes have dried out first to ensure the most efficient burning.

General Trash

If you have no option but to toss your compostable wet wipes in the waste bin, don’t worry too much.

They will degrade in landfill over time and leave no nasties behind.

Just try to avoid making this a habit.

Four Reasons Why You Should Never Compost Biodegradable Wipes

  • Yes, the primary material used in biodegradable wipes is paper. Yes, paper is composable in certain situations. However, to make the wipes fluffy and durable synthetic fibers are added (usually plastic), and these will contaminate the compost.
  • Cosmetic wipes work best when they’re wet. To make (and keep) them moist, chemicals, lotions, moisturizers, etc., need to be added. These will upset the delicate balance of the composting process.
  • Some antibacterial wipes contain isopropyl alcohol. This will attack and kill the good bacteria in the compose, and the composting process will slow down or even fail.
  • Dirty wipes full of grease, food remnants, and other household cleanup waste will attract vermin to the compost heap. This can lead to the spread of bugs and diseases.

Never Flush Wet Wipes Down the Toilet

do not flush wipes

Most wipes are not designed to break down when flushed in the same way that toilet paper does.

Flushing wipes could result in blockages. Not only would this lead to hefty plumbing bills, but it could also cause flooding and household/personal damage.

Some wipes are designed to be used alongside biodegradable toilet paper. These are usually clearly marked with relevant certifications, such as IWSFG and INDA.

Only ever flush wet wipes marked as flushable. And even then, ensure you follow the packaging instructions and don’t flush too many flushable wipes simultaneously (one at a time is usually the recommendation).

Recycle Wipe Packaging

Don’t forget the outer packaging containing the wipes, which can often be recycled.

Check the packaging for more information. If you’re still unsure, contact the manufacturer or email me.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Honest Wipes Biodegradable?

According to the manufacturer, Honest wipes are 90% biodegradable in 60 days in municipal/industrial facilities according to OECD 311 standards.”

Are Dude Wipes Biodegradable?

No, Dude Wipes are not biodegradable. But they are certified flushable by INDA.

What are the Best Eco-Friendly Wet Wipes?

These wipes came out on top during my tests.

The Final Word

Wipes are a popular product, useful in numerous situations (cleaning up spills, wiping baby’s bum, a ’camping shower’ at a festival (always, face, pits, THEN bits…not the other way round! ????), etc.

So why do wet wipes and baby wipes have such a lousy eco-reputation?

The problem is not necessarily with the product itself but with how we dispose of it.

For example, the number of wet wipes found on coastlines is increasing. According to Andrex, “Out of all the plastic found washed up on coastlines in Europe, around eight percent of it comes from wet wipes.”

Greenwashing companies have fooled many into thinking that their plastic-filled ’biodegradable’ wipes are eco-friendly and can be tossed in the trash without a second thought.

Reusable plastic-free wipes made from organic cotton or other natural materials will always be the best for the planet.

However, if you do need to reach for a wipe, ensure that you’re disposing of it properly.

Get In Touch

Do you use household cleaning wipes? Do you flush them? What is your favorite brand of biodegradable wipe? Drop me a line and let me know.

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James Miller
James Miller
James is an environmentalist, sustainability expert and senior editor at TheRoundup, specializing in testing non-toxic, organic and eco-friendly products. James, his wife and two daughters believe in chemical-free and zero-waste living. They aim to leave the planet in a better state than we found it, for future generations to enjoy.
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