Fibre-based packaging for washing pods

Who doesn’t love a washing tablet? Quick and convenient, these compact gel- or powder-filled pouches makes it a lot easier to do the dishes or laundry. And now these washing tablets come in fibre-based packaging too.

The washing pods used for both washing machines and dishwashers have typically been packaged in plastics pouches or rigid plastic. That is changing as fast, as

Walki have developed extrusion-coated PE-liner paper solutions to enable producers of corrugated board and solid board boxes for washing tablets to make the switch from plastics pouches to fibre-based boxes. These boxes can be recycled in the paper stream instead of contributing to the growing problem of plastic waste in landfills and oceans.

Growing market for washing tablets

So, how much impact could the switch from plastic- to paper-based packaging have? Considering the rate of growth of the dishwasher tablet market, the answer is quite a lot. According to Allied Market Research (AMR), the global market size for washing tablets was valued at USD 596.1 million in 2018, and is anticipated to reach USD 990 million by 2026, registering a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6.8% during the forecast period.

Multiple studies show that consumers prefer fibre-based packaging over plastic. Meanwhile, according to a consumer report by Drapers Bespoke Research, 64% of consumers have made a conscious decision to be more sustainable.

“With these new solutions we are offering, manufacturers are appealing to a growing number of consumers – especially young people – who want non-plastic alternatives when shopping,” explains Elke Wolf, Walki’s Sales Manager, Barrier Lining & Ream Wrapping in Steinfurt, Germany.

“Walki’s barrier coated liner allows for 95% plastic-free packaging, making it compliant with the current EU recycling regulations,” she continues.

As detergent tablets need protection from moisture and water, Walki’s solution is not only removing excess moisture from the box but also provides a protective barrier against moisture and water from the outside.

“Without the barrier liner, it would not be possible to make the switch from plastic to paper-based packaging, explains Wolf.

“This protective barrier is the single most important feature required by the packaging manufacturers, since liquid has the power to destroy corrugated board or solid board boxes. It is a must for distribution, transport and storage and also adds a level of child safety,” comments Wolf.

“If a liquid tablet breaks in the box, the barrier liner ensures that the liquid doesn’t leak out or cause the box to fall apart,” says Wolf.

Walki’s PE-lined board solutions for washing tablets are available for both corrugated board and solid board and are marketed as Walki®Line Aqua, Walki®Line Solid and Hydraplex TM and Reelplex TM.