Whats the difference between Biodegradable, Flushable and Compostable?

Offshoot offers BIODEGRADABLE Wipes. All of Offshoot's Wipes are certified Biodegradable, are all made from 100% Natural Materials and are Biodegradable in landfills, provided the landfill creates the correct conditions for breakdown of organic material. To be classified as biodegradable, the item must break down under natural microbial action within a specific time frame. All our biodegradable wipes are clearly labelled as biodegradable. Flushability Our range of wipes are Not Flushable. We believe that no wipe should ever be flushed, even if they are 100% biodegradable. When wipes get flushed, they do not have enough time to breakdown and end up interfering with sewerage pipe flow causing major blockages and damaging sewerage processing equipment. This build up is also known as a Fatberg. In our opinion and since there are strict enough guidelines in NZ for flushable wipes, even wipes classified as 'flushable' should not be flushed. They do not break down properly and end up causing costly blockages. Compostability We promote our Wipes as Biodegradable rather than compostable. Landfills provide better conditions for breakdown of our wipes than composting stations, so we advise against disposing of our wipes at commercial composting stations unless otherwise stated in one of our specific wipes.

What does Compostable mean?

We’ve all heard of a compost heap, right? Composting is a natural process of recycling organic waste through decomposition so that it can eventually be put back into the soil as a nutrient rich compost. The composting process creates certain conditions that allow the organic matter to decompose. Although compostable products break down naturally in the composting process, they do not always breakdown naturally in a landfill. This is because compostable products require certain conditions to break down and these conditions are often not found in landfills, especially those landfills which are "air locked". Compostable products are great for the environment, but it is important to make sure that they are disposed of in the right way using Commercial Composting Facilities. Our wipes break down well under landfill conditions.

What does Biodegradable mean?

Simply put, something is “biodegradable” if it can be disintegrated by bacteria, fungi, or some other natural biological process. If you look at the word itself, the meaning is right there. “Bio” meaning “life,” “degrade” meaning to break down, and “able” of course meaning that it can happen. The term "Biodegradable" is used a lot however, not all biodegradable products are created equal. A key factor in somethings biodegradability is the time it takes to breakdown. The faster it breaks down the more biodegradable it is. An apple core for example may only take a few months to break down whereas wool socks may take a few years. Both are biodegradable products. The longer something takes to break down, the longer it persists in landfills and the more space it takes up. Space is a major problem with landfills so its important to choose products with a faster breakdown time.

What's the main difference between Compostable & Biodegradable?

The primary difference between compostable and biodegradable is that compostable products require specific conditions to break down, whereas biodegradable products break down naturally. Typically, industrial composting is a faster process as the conditions are tightly controlled and optimised for breakdown. The time taken for something to biodegrade varies significantly depending on the material and the conditions the material is under. Both compostable and biodegradable products are better for the environment than plastic products which can take hundreds of years to disintegrate.

What happens to our wipes in landfill?

Offshoot Biodegradable wipes are made from either 100% Viscose or 100% Bamboo. All our materials break down completely in landfill. If the gas was captured (as it is in some landfills), then one dry tonne of said materials would produce about 2MWHrs of sustainable electricity. Bamboo material is is a short cycle derived carbon, so their degradation does not contribute to climate change.

How long will it take for our wipes to breakdown in landfill?

Offshoot has undertaken a specific test to ensure their wipes breakdown in landfill. The ASTM D5511 test is a Standard Test Method forDetermining Anaerobic Biodegradation of Plastic MaterialsUnder High-Solids Anaerobic-Digestion Conditions. The result of this ongoing test is as follows: Offshoots VISCOSE wipes reached an 100% Biodegradation rate after only 90 days in Landfill. Offshoots BAMBOO wipes reached an 100 % Biodegradation rate after only 90 days in Landfill. To further back up our results, we also conucted an in house burial test with SGS for more visual data of the wipes biodegrading as per below.

How many wipes will I go through?

Offshoot's Dispensers are designed to pull one wipe at a time to help limit the number of wipes people take. Typically, a person who wants to use the wipes will take 1 - 2 wipes at a time depending on the application, however not everyone will opt to use the wipes. There are a number of factors that influence wipes usage including; how many people use the wipes, the application (e.g. gym, supermarket, office), how many dispensers you have and the general mindset people have around hygiene. If you want to discuss this in more detail get in touch and we are happy to provide more guidance. Here is an example of a couple of different GYM's using both our Wall Mounted and Free Standing Dispensers.

Offshoot's wipes are not as wet as some other wipes. Are they still doing the job?

Our biodegradable wipes are a fabric-based wipe and carry a lot of moisture. Generally, the thicker the wipe is, the more moisture it can carry. There is a perception that ‘wetter is better’ but this is not necessarily the case. Wetter can sometimes mean that the ingredients are diluted and not as effective. All our wipes are designed to be effective surface sanitisers and they are effective even if they aren't completely wetting the surface.

Why do Offshoot's Gym Wipes not absorb sweat?

In general, antibacterial wet wipes are designed for sanitising the equipment surfaces by killing bacteria, germs & viruses, not for soaking up sweat. They already carry the antibacterial formula and so they generally cannot absorb anything more. Offshoot Wipes help prevent the spread of disease and make the gym a pleasant and safe place for members. Ideally members put their towels down before working out or use their towels to remove sweat.

What is the BEST WIPE Offshoot offers?

The most premium wipe we have to offer is our BAMBOO Wet Wipes. Offshoot's Bamboo Wipes are strong, thick, hold plenty of moisture, are completely biodegradable and are produced from sustainable resources. Bamboo is the top choice for many wipe manufacturers because of its natural properties and its environmental benefits. WHY BAMBOO?

• Bamboo is highly absorbent and able to absorb up to three times its weight in water.

What is the BEST DISPENSER Offshoot offers?

Our Hand & Hygiene Free Standing Dispensers are our most popular dispensers because they provide the most flexibility, they stand out and have an internal bin. These units are portable so can easily be positioned wherever you like. This means you can experiment with the best position or easily rearrange their positioning as you need. As they are free standing, they do not need to go on a wall, so can be positioned in places where there are no walls available. No need to drill into your existing building. These dispensers are available in a choice of colours and you can opt to put customised branding and marketing on the top to really make them fit in with your business. These dispensers are all in one unit, featuring an internal bin and hold large rolls of wipes up to 1,000 wipes at a time. E: sales@offshootwipes.co.nz

What is the BEST SOLUTION for my Gym?

This is a very common question and until we know more about you, your gym and your members habits, it is very hard to answer. In our eyes, the best solution is the one you feel the most comfortable with for you and your members. Do you want to provide an eco-friendly option? Are you cost conscious? Are you a large gym or a small gym? Do you have wall or space restrictions? If you are looking for a new cleaning system for your gym the best thing to do is to get in touch with us and we will be happy to discuss the options and help find a system that works best for you. E: sales@offshootwipes.co.nz

How many Dispensers will I need?

This question is a common one and is hard to answer. There are a few factors to look at:

1. What is your budget?
2. H ow many members / staff do you have?
3. Would you prefer a dual system to save costs? (Wet Wipes and Paper Towels)
4. How big is your business?
5. How many people come through your business each day?

Why do you provide the dispensers for FREE?

Offshoot adopted a "free on loan" model when we first started in 2012 and have maintained this model because of how well it works for our customers. The free on loan model means that we will loan you as many dispensers as you need for free, as long as you are purchasing our wipes. This has a several benefits:

• Reduces the capital outlay for our customers as you do not need to buy dispensers if you want to use our wipes.
• Ensures you and your customers have the best experience possible as our wipes are designed to work best in our dispensers.
• Our customers do not feel locked into using us if they decide they no longer want to. We believe customers should want to work with us rather than be forced to.

Why do you not have Term Contracts like other companies?

Since starting Offshoot in 2012 we have not held term contracts with our customers. We believe in developing great relationships with our customers through great service and innovative products. We prefer that you want to work with us because of this service and the products we offer, rather than feeling forced to. We therefore do not want to hold any customer to a term contract.

If I'm not happy with my units, can I return them?

As we do not have any fixed contracts, you can return the dispensers to us whenever you like. You might be closing down, you might not like the system, you might want to change systems, or you might just not be 100% happy with them. Whatever the reason, we respect your decision and are more than happy to have the dispensers returned to us.

What chemicals do you use in Offshoot's Sanitising Wipes?

All our Antibacterial Wet Wipes use an accredited Antibacterial Formula created specifically for Offshoot for effective Sanitising. The main ingredient used in our wipes is BENZALKONIUM CHLORIDE which is a powerful Quaternary Ammonium Compound. This ingredient is used in most Sanitising and Disinfecting products on the market for its efficacy against germs, bacteria and viruses. This allows us to have a completely ALCOHOL-FREE wet wipe whilst providing the most effective sanitising from a wet wipe. As our wipes are Alcohol Free, it also means they are safe on skin and all surfaces. If you have any questions regarding the ingredients in our wipes, please do get in touch.

Are Offshoot's Sanitising Wipes safe for people?

Health and Safety is extremely important to us. Offshoot wipes have been tested and accredited to New Zealand, Australian and European standards for safety. They are accredited as a sanitiser for both surfaces (MPI C32) and hands (MPI C44), as well as AssureQuality Passed, so you have peace of mind that it is safe for all users. They have all had a Skin Sensitivity Test completed. Please refer to each products SDS for more info or contact us directly for more info.

Where can I find the SDS for each product?

Please click HERE for the individual safety data sheets.

Will Offshoot's Wipes damage my GYM equipment and/or electrical screens?

Our GYM Wipes are designed to be used on gym equipment of all types including screens found on Treadmills, Exercycle's, Rowing Machines and other equipment. Gyms often use our wipes because they want to protect their equipment from rust and moisture damage caused by members spraying cleaners directly onto the equipment instead of using overly wet cloths. As Offshoot Wipes are not saturated, they dry quickly, and there is no risk of fluid dripping down into the equipment causing rust or damage. ​ Offshoot wipes are made of fine non-abrasive fibres which are soft to the touch and will not damage or scratch any equipment. Additionally, our wipes are alcohol free so they are not harsh on fabrics and surfaces like alcohol based cleaners can be. If you have any concerns or want to clarify anything, please get in touch and we will be happy to help. E: sales@offshootwipes.co.nz

Offshoot's Water Wipes are made from only 97.5% Water. Why not 99.9% like other companies?

As our Water Wipes have 450 wipes per roll and made from 100% Bamboo, we need to ensure that the wipes do not go mouldy and start to biodegrade too quickly. Most water wipes are designed in packets of 80, allowing the user to go through them quickly. (Mould is the start of biodegradation.) We have ensured that the other ingredients we have added to our Water Wipes are all naturally derived ingredients and are not harsh.

What are the other ingredients used in Offshoot's Water Wipes?

• Glycerol - a colourless, sweet, viscous liquid formed as a by-product in soap manufacture. It is used as an emollient and laxative, and for making explosives and antifreeze. Glycerol is a NATURALLY occuring chemical.

• Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Extract - Aloe-derived material has fungicidal, antimicrobial, and antiviral activity, and has been effective in wound healing and infection. Is is deemed safe to use as a cosmetic ingredient and is derived from NATURAL SOURCES.

• Chamomilla Recutita Extract - a flower extract that helps bind moisture to the skin. Helps soften and make skin suppler. Frequently used in cosmetic products and derived from NATURAL SOURCES.

• D-Panthenol - is a nutrient from the B vitamin family that helps manage the negative results that oxidative stress can have on our skin, such as redness, fine lines, skin roughness and more. Because D-Panthenol is derived from pantothenic acid (known as vitamin B5), which is often extracted from honey, it is a sustainable, environmentally friendly product.

• Cereal Extract Antibacterial Agent - A.SAP is a natural organic antimicrobial deodorant, with soybean extract as the main component. It is used to stop the production on mould in our wipes.

How do I set up my new Hand & Hygiene Wet Wipe Dispenser?

How do I empty the bin in my Hand & Hygiene Wet Wipe Dispenser?

My Hand & Hygiene Dispenser isn't FEEDING WIPES like it did when I first got it. How do I fix it?

How to REPLACE your Sticker on your Hand & Hygiene Wet Wipe Dispenser

How do I set up my new Stainless Steel FREE STANDING Wet Wipe Dispenser?

How to empty the bin in your FREE STANDING Stainless Steel Dispensers

My wipes are not feeding smoothly. How can I fix?

I've just had my Wipepod Wall Mounted Wet Wipe Dispenser installed for me. How do I refill and empty them?

My wipes are not feeding smoothly. How can I fix?

INSTALLATION - How to install / fix Wipepod Wall Mounted Wet Wipe Dispenser if needed.