Wet Wipes Ban
A new ban on selling wet wipes made from plastic will be signed into law in England from May 2027. According to the Government, wet wipes containing plastic are a growing source of pollution, with a recent study showing that an average of 20 wet wipes are littering every 100 metres of beach across the UK. The ban has overwhelming public support with 95% of respondents all agreeing with the proposal.
The ban does not mean all wet wipes are wiped out – you are still able to use them, just check that they do not contain plastic, and please do ensure you dispose of them correctly in the bin – when wet wipes are flushed down the toilet, they can break down into microplastics that poison wildlife and enter the food chain. It is important to note that all wet wipes, regardless of if they contain plastics, contribute to blockages and pollution when flushed.
How does this impact Early Years?
Settings will need to stop sourcing conventional plastic-containing wet wipes (e.g. for nappy changes, cleaning up messes, general hygiene) by May 2027 at latest. This means switching to plastic-free wet wipes (e.g. made from cotton, bamboo, cellulose) or alternative hygiene/ cleaning methods. For many nurseries, this will mean updating their purchasing lists, stock, and possibly budgets, particularly those that rely heavily on wipes.
Nurseries will have to ensure that plastic‑free alternatives are safe and suitable for young children (e.g. gentle on skin, hypoallergenic). The shift may require reviewing cleaning and nappy‑change protocols. Some nurseries may choose to go further by using reusable cloths, washable nappies, or even re‑usable towels/cloths for cleaning.
Early Years settings can use the change as a learning opportunity, teaching children (and parents) about environmental responsibility, waste reduction, and sustainable living from a young age. Adopting plastic-free wipes helps embed environmentally responsible practices early in children’s lives.
However, the transition might increase upfront costs. Plastic-free wipes (or reusable alternatives) can be more expensive than bulk synthetic wipes, or require more laundering, storage, and staff time. This needs to be considered when planning for the change to ensure a cost-effective and responsible source is chosen.
What Early Years Settings (and Parents) Can Do to Prepare
• Identify and review which wipes contain plastic. Plan to phase them out in favour of plastic-free or reusable alternatives.
• Update hygiene and disposal policies. Ensure staff know wipes (even biodegradable) should be disposed of in bins, not flushed – even with non‑plastic wipes, flushing can still cause blockages.
• Communicate with parents. Explain upcoming changes, reasons, and any impact on fees or supply.
• Budget for change. Adjust budgets and consider sustainable alternatives (washable cloths, reusable cleaning wipes, etc.).
• Use the change as a teaching opportunity. Involve children (in age‑appropriate ways) in discussions about waste, environment, and care for nature, supporting environmental literacy from early on.
Useful Links
New law bans plastic wet wipes to protect rivers and seas: gov.uk/government/news/new-law-bans-plastic-wet-wipes-to-protect-rivers-and-seas