What’s new?
Following the proposal in April 2024, the United Kingdom (UK) has signed in the 18th of November 2025 the law banning the sale and supply of wet wipes containing plastic.
Wet wipes are single-use non-woven fabric pieces saturated in liquid solution, including baby wipes, cosmetic wipes, facial cleansing wipes, and personal hygiene wipes. These plastic-containing wipes degrade into microplastics, which can harm human health and ecosystems. UK surveys found an average of 20 wet wipes per 100 meters of beach, with wet wipes contributing to 94% of sewer blockages.
The approved ban includes:
Coverage: Supply and sale of wet wipes containing plastic across the UK. An 18-month transition period allows businesses to deplete existing stock. Manufacture for export remains permitted.
Exemptions: Medical purposes including supply by healthcare professionals, under healthcare professional direction, or by NHS contractors. Retail pharmacy business can supply upon customer request only, with products not displayed or advertised in-store. Business-to-business supply for operational purposes of businesses or local authorities.
What now?
Legislation will be followed by an 18-month transition period, with the ban expected to come into force on May 19th 2027.