Charmin Flushable Wipes has always had the reputation of being a top product in the toiletry industry. They have been produced for decades and are trusted by millions around the world. Many people choose to use them each day, but have you ever wondered if the wipes are really safe to use?
The latest lawsuit against the company claims that the wipes contain chemicals that cause immediate intoxication, along with headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. The lawsuit claims that these products were improperly sold as flushable, septic, and anti-bacterial safe for sew and sewer systems. The lawsuit seeks a preliminary court order to prevent the alleged selling practices from continuing and require charmin to sell their products only to certified sewer/septic installers. In addition to these supposed dangers, the plaintiffs also claim that the company failed to warn consumers of the dangers associated with their toilet paper. It is not uncommon for manufacturers of toilet paper to include flushing instructions or warnings with the paper when it is purchased. The plaintiffs say that the manufacturer did not indicate that the paper should only be used by certified sewer contractors, and that the company failed to warn purchasers of the danger of using the product other than as directed.
No one disputes the basic safety features and functions of Charmin flushable wipes. These wipes are designed to dry quickly and suds up while absorbing up to two cups of water per wash cycle. The fact that the moisture is expelled from the wipes means that there is no chance of water damage to personal property or infrastructure, which is what caused the current lawsuit. The wipes are also safe for the environment, because they are biodegradable and do not contain any petroleum-based ingredients. This is certainly a valid point, but the plaintiffs are claiming a different benefit: a settlement in a class action lawsuit.
The plaintiffs argue that the company knowingly and negligently sold their toilet and bathroom cleaning supplies to consumers without disclosing that the products contained ingredients that could cause health problems if used excessively. As evidence, the plaintiffs point to statements in the company’s literature that state that the product is appropriate for use in “all areas of the home.” Further, the manufacturer’s website openly states that the wipes are “suitable for use in toilets and homes.” The lawsuit contends that the company knew that the claims were false, yet still filed the suit against Hanes.
The complaint points to several other examples of misleading claims. For example, one of the product’s claims is that the wipes moisten carpeting. The complaint further contends that this claim was false because the product’s description specifically states that “charmin” flushable-wipes moisten carpets only as long as they are in direct contact with the “charmin” ingredient. Finally, the complaint asserts that one of Hanes’ claims regarding the effectiveness of the product is also misleading. The complaint notes that the “efficacy study” provided by Hanes does not compare wet wipes with other toilet paper products and Hanes does not acknowledge that their claims about the effectiveness of the product are false.
If the Class-Action Lawsuit ultimately wins, Hanes will be required to repay all monies paid to Hanes and if Hanes is found to have negligently and intentionally wrongfully sold Hanes toilet and bathroom cleaning products to consumers, they could be liable for more than just damages for their wrongful acts. This would be in addition to actual monetary damages which include: punitive damages, profits lost due to the sale of Hanes toilet and bathroom cleaning products to the public, etc. The Class-Action Lawsuit also would likely uncover strong defamatory or slander issues, as well as other unethical business tactics on the part of Hanes. In the event a settlement between Hanes and the plaintiffs is reached, Hanes will be ordered to cease selling the products they defamed and they will also be required to take measures to ensure they do not defame or harass others in the future. If you have proof of purchase when it comes to Hanes when it comes to the wipes, you may obtain up to much-needed financial relief from this Class-Action Lawsuit.