Monitoring report · published 25 March 2025 · reflects the rules at that date

UK-wide ban on plastic-containing wet wipes to be completed with Wales joining

Our monitoring reports record the changes to cosmetics rules in a given period, and we publish one each month. Each one is a dated publication: it reflects the rules on the date it was published and is not updated afterwards. For what applies today, read the latest briefings or ask us.

See what happens after launch

What’s new?

On February 7, 2025, Wales formally notified the World Trade Organization (WTO) about its forthcoming prohibition on plastic-containing wet wipes. This notification completes the UK-wide implementation of the ban, following similar measures already initiated by England, Scotland, and Northern Ireland during 2024.

Wales has taken a different regulatory approach compared to other UK nations. Rather than creating standalone legislation, Welsh authorities have chosen to amend their existing Environmental Protection (Single-Use Plastic Products) (Wales) Act 2023 to incorporate the wet wipes ban. This legislative amendment expands the Act’s coverage to include wet wipes containing plastic materials.

What now?

With Wales finalizing its regulatory approach, the UK now has a comprehensive nationwide framework addressing plastic-containing wet wipes. This completed ban will significantly impact manufacturers and retailers of cosmetic and personal care products.

Companies producing wet wipes for the UK market need to accelerate development of plastic-free alternatives across their product ranges, including baby wipes, cosmetic wipes, personal hygiene products and cleaning wipes.