Get the Flushing Facts

What can & can’t be flushed?

Kleenex Flushable Wipes are Certified Flushable

Update: After extensive input from public wastewater bodies and industry experts including Kimberly-Clark Australia (the maker of Kleenex® Flushable Wipes), Standards Australia published a new, AU & NZ-specific, Flushable Products Standard (AS/NZS 5328:2022). The Standard details clear testing criteria that need to be met for manufacturers to use a “flushable” label in accordance with the Standard.

We welcome the introduction of the new Standard and are proud to announce that Kleenex Flushable Wipes meet and exceed the requirements of the Australia/New Zealand Flushable Products Standard (AS/NZS 5328:2022)

Get The Facts

The technology behind Kleenex® Flushable Wipes allows them to lose strength and break up after flushing. Below are answers to some of our FAFQs (frequently asked flushing questions).

What common household items should NOT be flushed?

Even though it may surprise you, the following household items are not designed to break down after you flush them down the toilet:

  • Paper towels and facial tissues
  • Baby and house-hold cleaning wipes
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Kitchen waste, such as oil, grease or fats

It is important to note that sewerage systems and stream flow conditions are different door-to-door. Kleenex Flushable Wipes are only suitable for use in properly maintained sewerage systems and commercial septic systems. Flush a maximum of 2 wipes at a time.
Sewerage blockages can occur for a number of reasons. Finding out what is and is not OK to flush, is an important way to make sure we are all part of the solution.

flushability

How can I be sure it is ok to flush Kleenex® Flushable Wipes?

Our Kleenex® Flushable Wipes have undergone a series of tests to determine their flushability and meet & exceed the requirements of the Australia and New Zealand Flushable Product Standard (AS/NZS 5328:2022) - the local industry guideline for determining if products are suitable for flushing down a toilet.

The Australia/New Zealand Flushable Products Standard requires that wipes:

  • Clear the toilet and household drain line
  • Don’t foul household sewage pumps
  • Disintegrate quickly so it doesn’t cause sewer blockages
  • Don’t foul municipal (water utility) pumps
  • Settle out in sewage plant
  • Biodegrade
  • Don’t contain plastics

How do I know if my wipes can be flushed or not?

There are a number of non-flushable wipes on the market, such as baby wipes, beauty wipes, and household cleaning wipes. They must never be flushed as they can contribute to sewer blockages and fatbergs and should be disposed of in a bin instead. All non-flushable wipes should carry the ‘Do Not Flush’ label on their packs.

We encourage everyone to read the labels on packs carefully before disposing thoughtfully of their wipes.

Kleenex® Flushable Wipes are clearly labelled “flushable”. Flush a maximum of two wipes at a time. Wipes only suitable for use in properly maintained sewerage systems and commercial septic systems. Our wipes are designed to break down over time when passing through plumbing systems.

Is there someone I can talk to if I have more questions?

Of course! We are glad to speak with you and answer any questions you may have.
You can use our online contact form, here.
Or you can call us free of charge on 0800 733 703.