New Jersey Lemon Law Lawyer Blog
Flushable Wipes Class Actions
Flushable wipes have been a popular household item for years, but recently, class action lawsuits have been filed against companies manufacturing them. The lawsuits allege that the wipes are not actually flushable and can cause plumbing problems.
The main issue is that the wipes do not break down quickly enough when flushed and can clog pipes or even damage septic systems. This can lead to expensive repairs and other costly issues for homeowners. In some cases, the plaintiffs claim that the companies knew about this issue but did not inform consumers or provide adequate warnings.
If you have experienced plumbing problems due to flushable wipes, you may be eligible to join a class action lawsuit. It is important to contact an attorney as soon as possible in order to protect your rights and ensure you receive any compensation you may be entitled to.
Sources
• https://www.rfmu.org/1016/Flushable-disposable-wipes-clog-pipes
• https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/are-flushable-wipes-flushable-37178955
• https://www.cityofalbany.net/pw/wastewater/wipes
Flushable wipes class actions have been filed in multiple states, including New York, California, and Florida. In April 2022, Kimberly-Clark agreed to pay up to $20 million to settle two lawsuits that claimed its flushable wipes were not actually flushable. The settlement includes better labeling of the wipes and other relief for consumers.
Sources
• https://www.nonwovens-industry.com/contents/view_breaking-news/2022-04-08/k-c-to-settle-flushable-wipes-litigation/
• https://topclassactions.com/lawsuit-settlements/lawsuit-news/kimberly-clark-class-action-lawsuit-and-settlement-news/kimberly-clark-to-pay
There have been several reports of flushable wipe defects, including issues with the product’s design, quality, and packaging. Some of the most common defects reported by consumers include:
1. Failure to break down: Although marketed as “flushable,” many flushable wipes do not break down in water like toilet paper. This can lead to clogged pipes, sewer backups, and other plumbing issues.
2. Skin irritation: Some consumers have reported skin irritation and allergic reactions after using flushable wipes due to the chemicals and fragrances used in the product.
3. Packaging defects: Some consumers have complained that flushable wipes packaging is difficult to open, or that individual wipes are not folded properly and do not come out of the packaging easily.
4. False advertising claims: Some flushable wipe manufacturers have faced legal action for false advertising claims, including claims that the product is safe for septic systems and won’t cause plumbing problems.
If you have experienced any of these issues with flushable wipes, I would recommend contacting the manufacturer directly or seeking legal assistance from a licensed attorney who specializes in consumer protection and class actions