In a major step to tackle plastic pollution, the UK government has enacted a law banning the sale and supply of wet wipes containing plastic in England, with Wales already having legislated and Northern Ireland and Scotland expected to follow by the end of 2025. The ban, signed into law in November 2025, comes with an 18-month transition period, meaning the regulation will be fully enforced by spring 2027.

 

The legislation applies to consumer retail, while medical professionals and certain professional uses are exempt. A future ban on manufacturing plastic wet wipes may also be considered once the sale ban is in place.

 

Plastic wet wipes contribute heavily to microplastic pollution, harm wildlife, and cause sewer blockages that cost water companies around £200 million annually. UK Water Industry Research estimates that wipes are responsible for 94% of sewer blockages, and government data shows that up to 20 wipes per 100 m of beach litter are plastic. The government is urging consumers: “Bin it, don’t flush it,” for all wipes, not just plastic ones.

 

Retailers like Boots and Tesco have already transitioned to plastic-free options, and manufacturers are expected to accelerate the shift to biodegradable alternatives. Environmental groups, including Thames21, have welcomed the ban as a key measure to reduce microplastic pollution and protect aquatic ecosystems.

 

Environment Secretary Emma Reynolds said: "This ban will put an end to plastic wet wipes which choke our sewers, litter our beaches, and poison wildlife. It’s another example of the government taking strong, decisive action to clean up our rivers, lakes, and seas. But we all have a role to play. Every wet wipe flushed down the toilet risks blocking sewers, causing pollution, and pushing up household bills. The solution is simple: bin wet wipes, don’t flush them."

 

The UK’s new law sets a precedent internationally, with other countries, including Spain, preparing similar bans. This measure is also part of a broader water sector reform, aimed at reducing pollutants entering sewers and improving wastewater and rainwater management.