Disposable cleaning wipes are now a staple in people’s lives. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit the world in 2020, disposable disinfectant wipes became even more in demand. These have become essential commodities that are often hoarded as people try protecting themselves, their families, and their homes and businesses from contamination of this deadly virus.
Unfortunately, disposable wipes may be convenient, but they also pose risks to the planet. Every single year, billions of disposable wipes end up in oceans and landfills, most of which have plastic content that doesn’t break down, not to mention the harsh disinfecting chemicals that leech into waterways. Flushing disposable wipes down toilets are also the main cause of massive clogs that affect and compromise sewers.
Due to these concerns, an alternative for disposable cleaning wipes was introduced. Compostable cleaning wipes are made from natural materials meant to break down in compost. These new types of wipes are considered as an environment-friendly counterpart of those plastic packets or canisters that most people use in offices for quick and easy cleanup jobs.
But there is still one lingering question – are these compostable cleaning wipes worth your money in the first place?
What are Compostable Wipes?
The compostable wipes are meant to feel and look like other types of disposable cleaning wipes. These wipes resemble cloth and are pre-soaked in a cleaning solution. Similar to other wipes, these are also sold in watertight plastic containers that dispense one wipe at a time.
What makes them different from traditional wipes is the fact that they are made from a special plant-based and compostable cloth that breaks down and degrades completely under normal conditions. These compostable wipes follow the set requirements for compostable items. To adhere to these standards, a product should be composted under aerobic conditions in aerobic composting facilities.
Are Compostable Wipes Worth It?
Do compostable wipes clean and disinfect surfaces, too? Unfortunately, the answer is no. Unlike disinfectant wipes that are presoaked with a special solution, compostable wipes cannot kill viruses or bacteria on surfaces.
However, even if compostable wipes are not antiviral or antibacterial, these are suitable for most office cleaning jobs, such as wiping down desks, tables, and countertops, and cleaning up after messes and spills. But to truly disinfect surfaces, you might need to use another product.
At the end of the day, compostable wipes are an eco-friendlier option compared to traditional disinfectant wipes. These can also perform several quick cleanup tasks and at the same time, reduce the ecological disruption brought about by the tons of wipes that crowd into landfills.
But just like anything else in the world, compostable wipes also have their own set of disadvantages. They cannot disinfect surfaces, so they might not be the choice if you want to ensure health and safety on your premises.
If you want to take your cleaning efforts to the next level, Courtesy Building Services Inc focuses on handling all types of cleaning to let you and your team focus on more important things.