Thames Water urges parents to bin wet wipes, not flush them

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 25 Oct, 20:31 · Archive

Thames Water warns that 31 per cent of parents with young children are flushing wet wipes down toilets, causing sewer blockages.

Thames Water has revealed that 31 per cent of parents with children under four are flushing wet wipes down the toilet, with 10 per cent doing so daily and 26 per cent at least once a month. The practice risks blocked sewers and environmental damage.

The water company is urging a change in behaviour during Unblocktober, a national campaign encouraging the public to avoid flushing wipes and other non-flushable items. Tessa Fayers, director of waste and bioresources at Thames Water, said that wipes marketed as 'flushable' or 'biodegradable' can contribute to blockages because they do not break down quickly enough in the sewer. She urged families to bin all wipes instead, saying this would help prevent sewer blockages and reduce the risk of flooding or pollution incidents in their neighbourhood.

Thames Water explained that wet wipes can create the framework for fatbergs—large, solid masses formed when wipes combine with fats, oils and grease. These blockages can cause sewer flooding, damage treatment equipment, and contribute to pollution in rivers. Research found that 38 per cent of parents aged 18 to 34 admitted to flushing wipes, compared to 26 per cent of those aged 35 to 54.

How it is being reported

• Thames Water warns parents not to flush wet wipes down toiletsThames Water has warned that parents are flushing wet wipes down the toilet, risking blocked sewers.Oxford Mail · 25 Oct, 20:00
• Thames Water warns parents not to flush wet wipes down toiletsThames Water has warned that parents are flushing wet wipes down the toilet, risking blocked sewers.Oxfordshire Guardian · 25 Oct, 20:00

In this story: Thames Water · Tessa Fayers · Unblocktober

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