UK To Ban Sale Of Wet Wipes Containing Plastic
The UK Government has confirmed plans to ban the sale and supply of wet wipes containing plastic, with aligned measures set to be implemented across Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
In England, the proposed Environmental Protection (Wet Wipes Containing Plastic) (England) Regulations 2025 were published in July and are under parliamentary review. Once approved, the ban will take effect 18 months later, expected in late 2025 or early 2026.
Wet wipes containing synthetic fibres such as polyester have been identified as a major source of microplastic pollution. The ban forms part of the UK’s broader strategy to cut plastic waste, following measures such as the single-use carrier bag charge.
The regulation will apply to all businesses including retailers, manufacturers, importers, and online sellers and will prohibit the sale, supply, or offer of wet wipes containing any form of plastic. Companies are urged to transition to plastic-free alternatives such as bamboo, cotton, or cellulose-based biodegradable wipes.
Implementation Timeline Across the UK
- England: 18 months after legislation is passed (late 2025 or early 2026)
- Scotland: Legislation by end-2024; ban likely from mid-2026
- Wales: Ban from 18 December 2026
- Northern Ireland: 18 months after adoption; expected mid-to-late 2026
