Wet tissues, including baby wipes, cosmetic wipes, cleaning wipes, and moist toilet tissues, cannot be recycled. Even wipes labeled as flushable should never be flushed.
Proper Disposal of Wet Tissues
The only appropriate method for disposing of wet tissues is to place them in the trash. This prevents clogging of sewer systems and protects the environment. Do not attempt to recycle them in any curbside or specialized recycling program.
- Why not recycle? Wet wipes are typically made from materials that cannot be separated and processed in standard recycling facilities. They often contain plastic fibers that contaminate the recycling stream.
- Why not flush? Flushing wet wipes contributes to significant plumbing problems, causing blockages in sewer systems and wastewater treatment plants. These blockages can lead to costly repairs and environmental damage.
