What Are Flushable Wipes?
Flushable wipes are moist toilet paper alternatives designed to be strong enough to use for cleaning yet break down sufficiently to be flushed away. These disposable wipes are thicker, larger, and more durable than regular toilet paper.
Intended Uses of Flushable Wipes
Flushable wipes serve a variety of bathroom and household cleaning needs:
- Post-bowel movement hygiene
- Freshening up when a shower isn't possible
- Cleaning hard surfaces like sinks or appliances
- Wiping down dirty hands or faces
- Changing baby diapers
The extra scrubbing friction and moisture allow the wipes to grab more dirt, germs and mess than dry toilet paper alone.
Differences from Baby Wipes
While flushable wipes may seem similar to baby wipes, there are some important distinctions:
- Thicker, stronger and larger sheets
- No alcohol, perfumes or other harsh chemicals
- Specifically designed to dissolve safely
- No choking hazard from small remnants left behind
Choosing the Best Flushable Wipes
With so many flushable wipe products available, finding the right brand and style matters based on your particular needs and preferences.
Wet vs Dry Flushable Wipes
Most flushable wipes sold are pre-moistened with a cleaning solution. If you prefer to wet wipes yourself, some brands offer thicker dry wipe sheets instead that activate when saturated with water.
Scented vs Unscented
Fragranced flushable wipes often incorporate soothing natural aromas like aloe, citrus or spring botanicals. Those sensitive to smells or prone to contact dermatitis may favor a fragrance-free wipe.
Soft vs Textured
Flushable wipes are categorized from ultra-soft to tough scrubbing textures. Soft wipes prevent irritation on delicate skin. Textured wipes provide better cleaning power to tackle stuck-on messes.
Septic Safe Options
Homeowners on septic systems need flushable wipes designed without chemicals harsh to septic bacteria. Always verify a product's septic-safe certification before use.
Eco-Friendly Considerations
Seeking out plant-based, biodegradable wipes with less plastic packaging makes an environmentally-conscious choice to lessen landfill waste.
Cost Efficiency
Buying larger value packs reduces the per-wipe cost considerably while stocking up. Just be sure to seal opened packs between uses to prevent moisture loss.
Reviews of the Best Flushable Wipes
Discover which top-rated flushable wipe products on the market check all the boxes for effectiveness, safety, value and desirability based on customer reviews and expert analysis.
Cottonelle FreshCare Flushable Cleansing Cloths
These soft, absorbent wipes cleanse gently without alcohol or fragrances. The rippled texture lifts dirt easily from skin or surfaces. They break down properly after flushing to prevent plumbing issues.
Key Features: Rippled fabric, quick-dissolving, septic and sewer safe, plastic-free canister
Users praise the Cottonelle wipes' strong but silky feel, lack of chemical residue and convenience for travel or public bathrooms. They are on the thinner side requiring a heavier hand while wiping.
Aquarius Flushable Bath and Hand Wipes
These extra thick, soft wipes are ideal for repeated use without falling apart. With naturally soothing botanical extracts, they can clean hands or bodies without irritation. Septic-safe and biodegradable.
Key Features: Extra large sheets, aloe infused, strong and highly absorbent, eco-friendly materials
Fans applaud the perfect balance of scrubbing power and plushness. The generous size easily freshens large areas in one swipe. They have little scent which some miss while others appreciate.
DUDE Wipes Flushable Wipes Dispenser
Uniquely designed with men's needs in mind, DUDE Wipes handle tough messes with a plant-based formula safe anywhere. Dispenses wipes easily with one hand.
Key Features: Masculine branding, durable cloth feel, dispenser combats moisture, aims to cut toilet paper use
Male users give top ratings for the large wipe size, sturdy triple-ply construction and properly dissolving performance. The container keeps wipes damp between bathroom trips. Scent strikes some as too strong.
Balnea Daily Cleansing Flushable Wipes
Dermatologist tested to prevent irritation, these soft cloths with soothing botanical ingredients leave skin clean and refreshed. Septic and marine safe materials.
Key Features: Chemical-free formula, pH balanced for all skin types, made in eco-conscious facility
Sensitive users praise the ultra-gentleness and lack of reaction from these wipes. They have good absorbency and rinse clean. Wipes could be larger or thicker for some preferences.
Proper Use of Flushable Wipes
While flushable wipes offer many benefits, following best practices keeps home plumbing running smoothly and prevents environmental issues.
Use Only When Toilet Accessible
It can be tempting to use a flushable wipe then toss it in the trash far from a toilet when out. But wipes must be flushed when still wet right after use or they may not break down fast enough.
Employ Proper Wiping Technique
Wipe gently rather than aggressively scrubbing to prevent wipe shreds left behind. Use additional fresh wipes if needed instead of overworking one.
Limit Wipes Per Flush
Only flush 1-2 wipes at a time even if your product's label claims more. Flushing too many together slows water flow increasing chances some remnants will snag on pipes.
Alternate With Toilet Paper
Use wipes just for the messy parts then regular TP for the final pat dry. Toilet paper helps push wipes fully down the pipes during flushing.
Never Flush Baby Wipes
It's crucial to understand baby wipes, disinfecting wipes and other household wipes do not break down and must go in the trash. Only specially engineered flushable wipes can go down toilets.
What If Flushable Wipes Cause Problems?
On the rare chance flushable wipes do cause your drains to clog or slow down, take action promptly. Remove any wipes visible in the toilet then follow up with a drain maintainer product containing active enzymes to dissolve any debris caught further down pipes.
Switch to toilet paper only for a week or more to give your plumbing a reset. Always pay attention for proper water drainage rather than continuing to pile more wipes into a compromised system.
If sluggishness persists beyond a few drain cleaner treatments, call a professional plumber to thoroughly check out your pipes with a drain camera and use an auger "snake" to extract embedded remnants.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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