Can You Flush Baby Wipes?
Nope—and please don’t! Even if the packaging says "flushable," baby wipes don’t break down like toilet paper. Flushing them can clog pipes, damage septic systems, and even contribute to costly sewer blockages. The best way to dispose of baby wipes is to toss them in the trash—your plumbing (and your wallet) will thank you.
Why Can’t You Flush Baby Wipes?
Baby wipes are designed to be strong, soft, and durable, which is exactly what you want for wiping tiny tushies. But that same durability makes them a nightmare for plumbing. Unlike toilet paper, which dissolves quickly in water, baby wipes are built to hold up against moisture. This means they don’t break apart in your pipes, leading to blockages that can cause backups in your home and beyond.
Even “flushable” wipes can cause issues. Many don’t break down fast enough to prevent clogs, and sewer systems around the country report major problems due to wipes being flushed in large numbers. Flushing might seem harmless in the moment, but over time, those little wipes can create big (and expensive) plumbing disasters.
What Happens When You Flush Wipes?
Flushing baby wipes can lead to more than just a clogged toilet. Over time, they can:
- Block household pipes – Clogs start small but can quickly escalate into slow drains, overflows, or complete plumbing failures.
- Damage septic systems – Wipes don’t break down like toilet paper, which means they sit in septic tanks longer and can lead to costly repairs.
- Create major sewer problems – Wipes flushed in large numbers combine with grease and other debris to form massive blockages called “fatbergs” (yes, that’s a real thing), which can wreak havoc on city sewer systems.
Plumbers, city workers, and homeowners spend millions of dollars every year dealing with the effects of flushed wipes. The good news? Avoiding the problem is as simple as throwing wipes in the trash instead.
A Better Baby Wipe Alternative
Since you can’t flush baby wipes, it makes sense to choose ones that are better for the planet in other ways. That’s where Hello Bello’s baby wipes shine.
Made with 99% water and a blend of gentle, plant-based ingredients, our wipes are designed to be soft on sensitive skin while still tackling the messiest messes.
Unlike some big-brand wipes that rely on harsh chemicals, Hello Bello’s wipes are made without alcohol, synthetic fragrances, or parabens—just simple, soothing ingredients like aloe and chamomile to keep your little one’s skin happy.
And while they still shouldn’t be flushed (seriously, no wipes should!), they’re biodegradable in landfills, making them a more responsible choice for families who care about sustainability.
How to Dispose of Baby Wipes the Right Way
The best way to get rid of used wipes? Toss them in the trash. If you’re on the go, stash them in a sealable bag until you can dispose of them properly.
For those looking to cut down on waste even further, consider reusable cloth wipes—just toss them in the wash and use them again.
The Bottom Line
Flushing baby wipes—even ones labeled “flushable”—can cause serious plumbing and sewer issues. The safest bet? Throw them away and keep your pipes flowing smoothly.
If you want wipes that are gentle on your baby and better for the planet, Hello Bello’s baby wipes are the way to go—strong enough for big messes, soft enough for delicate skin, and made with simple, plant-based ingredients you can feel good about.
