UK water companies have written to Trading Standards over misleading packaging of wet wipes and other sanitary products that claim the items are 'flushable'.

Water UK, the organisation which represents all the UK water companies, said the so-called 'flushable' products cause misery to millions of people around the world by blocking sewers and contributing to floods in their homes and wider environment.

A global statement has now been signed by over 247 companies in over 18 countries outlining the water industry's current position regarding flushable labelled products. The international statement recommends that consumers must be given clear and unambiguous information about appropriate disposal methods of products.

UK industry watchdog the Consumer Council for Water is supporting the global statement which calls for consumers to be provided with accurate and consistent advice on what not to flush down the loo.

 Steve Grebby, Policy Manager at the Consumer Council for Water, said:

“It’s vital consumers are given clear, accurate and consistent advice about what they can safely flush down the loo.”

 “Our research shows many households are still confused but we have a really simple message for consumers – only flush the 3Ps down your loo - pee, poo and paper. That way we can all reduce the risk of sewer flooding and the untold misery it causes thousands of households and businesses every year.”

In the UK alone, water companies estimate it costs £88 million a year to unblock sewers, and more than half of blockages are exacerbated by wipes and hygiene products. This does not include the human and environmental impact and cost.

Sarah Mukherjee, Director of Environment at Water UK, said:

"There are strong views from customers and water companies that manufacturers need to take action to stop calling wet wipes "flushable" and help prevent sewer flooding.”

"The financial and emotional cost of a sewer flood in your home is awful and surely it is worth taking every step possible to prevent this happening."