A new ban on supplying wet wipes containing plastic to consumers in Wales begins on 18 December.
Businesses should check which products are affected, whether an exemption applies and what needs to change before the rules take effect.
Welsh Government guidance says the ban applies to supplying or offering to supply wet wipes containing plastic, including for free. It applies to online and in-person sales to consumers. The legislation was made in June 2025 and comes into force on 18 December.
Examples of affected products include baby wipes, face and make-up removal wipes, cosmetic face sheet masks, moist toilet tissue, antibacterial hand wipes, personal hygiene wipes and household cleaning wipes. Businesses should check product information to see whether the wipes they supply contain plastic.
Not every wet wipe is banned. Reusable wipes and plastic-free wipes are not included. There is also an exemption for wipes designed or manufactured for medical care or treatment.
Business-to-business supply is not affected. Welsh Government guidance gives the example of care homes and nursing homes continuing to get wet wipes containing plastic from wholesalers or suppliers. The consumer-facing ban needs to be considered separately.
Businesses supplying consumers should review products, check with their if they are unsure, move to plastic-free or reusable alternatives where necessary and ensure employees understand the changes.
For remaining stock that can no longer be supplied, the Welsh Government advises contacting suppliers, local authorities or trade associations about disposing of them correctly. Businesses may have to meet the disposal costs, and wet wipes should not go into recycling.
Further advice is available from Business Wales on 03000 603 000 or at BusinessSupport@gov.wales.
Businesses can find out how to prepare here: https://www.gov.wales/ban-wet-wipes-containing-plastic-guidance-businesses
