UK water companies complain to Trading Standards about 'flushable' products

UK water companies have written to Trading Standards over misleading packaging of wet wipes and other sanitary products that claim these items are ‘flushable’.

These so-called 'flushable' products cause misery to millions of people around the world by blocking sewers and contributing to floods in their homes and wider environment.

Toilets are designed for the three Ps only: poo, pee and (toilet) paper. A global statement has been signed by over 247 companies in over 18 countries outlining the water industry's current position regarding flushable labelled products.

The international statement recommends that consumers must be given clear and unambiguous information about appropriate disposal methods of products.

In the UK alone, water companies estimate it costs £88 million a year to unblock sewers, and more than half of blockages are exacerbated by wipes and hygiene products. This does not include the human and environmental impact and cost.

Sarah Mukherjee, Director of Environment at Water UK, said:

"There are strong views from customers and water companies that manufacturers need to take action to stop calling wet wipes “flushable” and help prevent sewer flooding.

"The financial and emotional cost of a sewer flood in your home is awful and surely it is worth taking every step possible to prevent this happening."

Water UK Communications
0207 344 1805