Plastic-Free Patient Dry Wipes Calculator
Did you know the NHS throws away 133,000 tonnes of plastic every year? Much of it from single-use items? This contributes significantly to carbon emissions and environmental waste.
At NHS Supply Chain, we’re proud to announce that all Patient Dry Wipes supplied through our upcoming Skin Cleansing Disinfection and Hygiene framework, launching in February 2026, will be 100% plastic-free.
This proactive move supports the NHS’s aim to reduce single-use plastic and aligns with the UK’s proposed ban on plastic wet wipes.
We are taking the lead to ensure that our clinicians continue to receive high-quality, clinically assured products without incurring environmental costs.
Why this matters
- Environmental impact: Switching to plastic-free wipes could help a typical acute trust eliminate several tonnes of plastic waste annually.
- Compliance: This change positions trusts ahead of regulatory requirements and sustainability targets.
- Clinical assurance: Our clinical team has rigorously reviewed all plastic-free wipes to ensure they meet infection prevention standards and maintain patient safety.
While plastics are just one part of the wider sustainability challenge in the NHS, this shift to plastic-free patient wipes marks a meaningful step toward reducing environmental impact and driving system-wide change.
Together, we’re making sustainable choices that protect both patient care and our planet.
Tools to support your transition
To make adoption easier, our category team has developed:
- A National Switching Impact Analysis – providing a comprehensive financial overview.
- A Plastic Reduction Calculator – can estimate your trust’s plastic usage and savings.
Request access to these tools by contacting your ICS Manager or our expert:
Links section
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Acute Team
Contact details for our Integrated Care System Managers (ICS Managers) and regional leads.
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Skin Cleansing and Disinfection
The framework agreement for the supply of skin cleansing and disinfection products.
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Sustainability
Supporting the NHS to become the world’s first carbon net zero national health system.