Biodegradable Wipes
Within every industry, there is always a moment when timing partners with innovation to create the ultimate product, and in recent years, everything has aligned around the development and demand for biodegradable wipes. These eco-friendly products are perfect for a wide range of uses, whether that be sensitive skin, removing bacteria, wet wipes, makeup removal wipes, pet wipes, or personal hygiene wipes. Biodegradable wipes have transitioned from a niche type product to a product that is used every day in households, across the length and breadth of the country.
In addition to a large range of jobs they are suitable for, they are also convenient, portable, and easy to use. Biodegradable wipes have taken over from disposable wipes because of the drive towards an environmentally friendly lifestyle. Let’s examine in more depth what biodegradable really means, and help to educate you on why purchasing your biodegradable wipes from Davis & Moore is an excellent choice for your home and business needs.
The Problem With Traditional Wipes
Most, although not all, traditional wipes are made from synthetic fibres, normally polyester or polypropylene. These materials, which are essentially a type of plastic, were predominantly chosen because they are strong, flexible, and inexpensive; however, the downside to these materials is that, as with most plastics, they do not typically break down in the environment. In fact, if they are flushed down the toilet, which is not how they should be disposed of, but what many consumers do, the wipes can have a lifespan of years if not decades.
The consequences of these types of wipes are hugely damaging and significant. Sewage systems can become blocked by a buildup of wipes, grease, and debris, which then require extensive and costly removal and maintenance. In marine environments, microfibres shed microplastics with significant evidence of microplastic pollution appearing everywhere, from Arctic ice to the deepest ocean trenches. Even if these wipes are not flushed down the toilet but are disposed of in landfills, the same issues arise because conventional wipes remain largely intact. This means they take up an increasing amount of space, slowly releasing microplastics into the air rather than truly decomposing. As the public becomes more aware of environmental issues, demand has grown for alternative products that meet sustainable, eco-friendly goals, which is where biodegradable wipes have become the de facto solution.
What Are Eco-Friendly Biodegradable Wipes?
Eco-Friendly biodegradable wipes from Davis & Moore are designed with the environment in mind. They are specially engineered to break down more quickly and completely than conventional wipes whilst still delivering effective cleaning results.
Typically, they are made from plant-based fibers such as viscose (derived from wood pulp), bamboo, cotton, or other cellulose-rich materials. These fibres are significantly more amenable to microbial degradation than synthetic plastics used in conventional wipes.
It is, however, important to note that in theory, at least, all materials are in fact biodegradable. The key difference is how long it takes a given product to degrade, depending on the conditions.
Some wipes are formulated to biodegrade in industrial composting facilities, where heat, moisture, and microbial activity are carefully controlled. Others claim to biodegrade in soil or water. Fewer still are designed to break down safely in home compost systems, which are typically cooler and less biologically active.
The Big Confusion Regarding Wet Wipes: Does Flushable Mean Biodegradable?
Whether it is for marketing or a lack of understanding from the general public, there is a huge amount of confusion when it comes to flushable and biodegradable. After all, it might seem logical that if a wet wipe is marketed as flushable, then naturally it must be biodegradable ? Unfortunately, many wipes which are marketed as flushable are not truly safe for sewerage systems, even if they may eventually, given enough time, biodegrade. Toilet paper, for instance, is designed to disintegrate rapidly once it comes into contact with water, whereas wipes are designed to clean grime and so need to be tough, which means they cannot immediately disintegrate when exposed to water.
Biodegradability does not automatically imply flushability. A wipe might biodegrade over months or years in composting conditions, yet still cause immediate problems in pipes and pumps. Industry standards for flushability are evolving, but enforcement and labeling remain inconsistent..
For environmentally conscious consumers, this distinction is critical. The most responsible option is still to dispose of wipes—biodegradable or not—in the rubbish bin, unless the manufacturer provides clear, independently certified evidence of true flushability. Although Davis & Moore does not currently manufacture flushable wipes, that does not mean that we are not fully committed to environmental advancement. In fact, as you can read here, we have numerous environmental policies and procedures in place. But as with everything we do at Davis & Moore, we do not wish to release any product without standing fully behind it, which is why some of our wipes are biodegradable, but we do not claim that they are flushable.
Materials and Manufacturing: A Greener Profile?.
The real advantage of using biodegradable wipes is in the raw materials that are used in the manufacturing process. Plant-based fibres are renewable, and indeed, when sourced responsibly, they can also reduce reliance on fossil fuels, which is never a bad thing.
In addition, some biodegradable wipes avoid harsh chemical binders and synthetic resins, instead relying on mechanical entanglement of fibers (hydroentanglement) to create strength. This can result in a product that is not only more environmentally friendly but also gentler on skin.
That said, the environmental profile of a wipe is shaped by more than just its fibers. Lotions, preservatives, fragrances, convenience, and packaging all contribute to the overall impact. A wipe made from biodegradable fabric but saturated with persistent chemicals or wrapped in multilayer plastic is only a partial solution.
Customer Behaviour – Work With Davis & Moore to Protect The Environment and Stay Feeling Fresh Even For Those With Sensitive Skin
To some extent, however sustainable a product is, it can still fail if used irresponsibly. Wipes are, after all, a disposable product, which encourages single-use behaviour. Whilst it is fair to say that biodegradable wipes do reduce the environmental burden per unit, they do not and cannot eliminate the more significant issue of waste generation.
There is also the risk of “green guilt relief,” where consumers feel justified using more wipes simply because they are labeled biodegradable. This rebound effect can undermine the net environmental benefit.
A more sustainable approach involves not only choosing better products, but also using fewer of them. Reusable cloths, washable makeup pads, and simple soap-and-water routines remain the lowest-impact options in many contexts.
Contact Davis & Moore today to Discuss Your Wet Wipe Needs and Requirements
At Davis & Moore, we are passionate about all things wet wipe related. We want to ensure that our customers are thrilled with their purchases, and we are committed to outstanding customer service. If you have any questions whatsoever about wipes, package sizes, or prices, please do not hesitate to contact our friendly customer service team today on 0161 848 8008
