Flushable wipes are flushable, if they meet international Flushability Standards. We know that wipes offer a level of comfort and hygiene and overall convenience that toilet paper just can not deliver. Flushable wipes take this level of convenience to a whole new level, and consumers love them because of this.
However we also know that wipes which claim to be flushable and are not, are causing huge problems for municipalities and councils the world over in terms of fatbergs and blockages of water systems and treatment plants.
This is why the standards set by the International Water Services Flushability Group (IWSFG) are so crucial for flushable wipes manufacturers, suppliers, retailers and consumers alike.
Their updated standards demand the following –
- They must meet environmental protection standards and not contain intentional plastic fibers
- They must be able to clean toilet and drain lines
- They disintegrate under pressure from hydraulic forces in sewer pipes
- They must pass settling requirements
- They are biodegradable
Only when these criteria are met, are wipes really flushable. Only when these standards are met can consumers truly trust the wipes they are using.
Alongside the IWSFG standards are the EDANA/INDA flushability guidelines.
For these to be met they must must also meet the following criteria –
- The wipes are able to fully clear water pipes and toilets
- Passes through wastewater conveyance systems as well as wastewater treatment, reuse and operational systems without causing blockages, clogging or other operational obstacles
- The wipes can not be found in effluent or waste sludge leaving wastewater treatment plants and systems
The UK has their own Fine to Flush standards, or Water Industry Specification (WIS) 4-02-06. Wet wipes manufacturers can choose to have their wipes tested by WRc, who have their own set flushability standards in line with Water UK standards. Wet wipes manufacturers that pass this testing and meet the criteria will be able to display the ‘Fine to Flush’ symbol on their product.
When it comes to choosing a flushable wipe manufacturer it makes sense to go with one that manufactures according to all of these standards. Albaad, for example, was the first company worldwide to have passed the IWSFG Flushability Standard Test with their moist toilet tissue paper. They also have certification that shows their flushable wipes are in line with EDANA/INDA flushability guidelines and that they meet the Fine to Flush criteria.
How did they do this? They developed their Hydrofine technology in order to manufacture wipes that are truly flushable each and every time. Their innovative wipes are based on a strong and resistant electric-base sheet and are fully biodegradable at the same time.
When it comes to choosing a wet wipes manufacturer it is important to choose one whose wipes are truly flushable. This means choosing one that meets all of the available flushability standards in the global arena, meaning the wipes are approved in every market.