The Environmental Protection (Wet Wipes Containing Plastic) (Scotland) Regulations 2026
The Scottish Government is introducing a ban on selling or supplying wet wipes that contain plastic. This ban follows the same approach taken for other problematic single‑use plastic items, such as plastic‑stemmed cotton buds, balloon sticks and cutlery.
What the ban covers
The ban will make it illegal for businesses in Scotland to sell or supply wet wipes that contain plastic.
The ban does not apply to:
- Retail pharmacies supplying plastic wet wipes for medical purposes
- Plastic wet wipes supplied for medical use in any setting
- Supply to businesses
- Supply to local authorities
Members of the public who genuinely need plastic‑containing wet wipes for medical care will still be able to request them from retail pharmacies.
A UK‑wide approach
All four UK nations are taking a coordinated approach to this issue. Each government has introduced aligned rules and provided an 18‑month transition period to allow manufacturers and retailers time to prepare.
- Scotland’s ban will come into force on 11 August 2027
- Wales introduced its legislation in June 2025 – coming into force 18 December 2026
- England and Northern Ireland introduced their legislation in November 2025
- Northern Ireland: 18 May 2027
- England: 19 May 2027
Further information
The Environmental Protection (Wet Wipes Containing Plastic) (Scotland) Regulations 2026