Costco, the popular warehouse retailer, recently agreed to a $2 million settlement over its Kirkland Signature wet wipes after claims surfaced that the product’s “flushable” label was misleading.
This settlement, set aside for eligible customers, highlights how product claims can land companies in hot water if they fail to meet expectations. If you’re an eligible shopper who bought these wipes between July 1, 2011, and May 31, 2017, especially in New York, now’s the time to act— the claim period ends soon.
Background
The settlement follows a class-action lawsuit alleging that Kirkland Signature wet wipes marketed as “flushable” were anything but. Customers argued that the wipes, rather than disintegrating in water, damaged plumbing, septic systems, and sewer lines. Many faced costly repairs due to clogs and blockages from attempting to flush these supposedly “flushable” wipes.
Why Customers Were Misled
Despite Costco’s flushable claims, the wipes didn’t break down like traditional toilet paper, resulting in significant damage to pipes and septic systems. Buyers insist that had they known the wipes weren’t truly flushable, they’d have avoided them—or at the very least, avoided flushing them. This lawsuit underscores the impact of misleading advertising on consumer trust and the unexpected costs that can arise from seemingly minor purchases.
Costco’s Settlement Terms
While agreeing to the settlement, Costco hasn’t admitted to any wrongdoing. Instead, the $2 million settlement allows the company to avoid further legal proceedings. Eligible customers who purchased the wipes between 2011 and 2017 can now claim compensation. Payouts range from $1.30 per pack purchased, with minimum payouts of $7.50 and a cap at $55.90 per person, covering up to 43 purchases. While this might not cover costly repairs, it helps offset the original purchase cost.
How to File a Claim
To claim compensation, customers need to submit a claim form by August 9, 2024. Fortunately, proof of purchase isn’t required, making the process simpler for those without receipts. Here’s a quick overview of what eligible customers should know about the filing process:
| Claim Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Deadline | August 9, 2024 |
| Proof of Purchase | Not required |
| Payout Range | $7.50 to $55.90 (based on quantity purchased) |
| Max Products | 43 products |
| Settlement Website | Visit to access the form and follow filing instructions |
If a customer disagrees with the settlement or wants to exclude themselves, they must also act by August 9, 2024. After this deadline, they won’t be able to sue Costco for additional damages or pursue separate legal action for plumbing repairs caused by these wipes. The settlement approval hearing is scheduled for August 30, 2024, which will determine the final outcome and whether compensation is released.
Long-Term Implications
The Costco settlement is a wake-up call to consumers regarding the “flushable” labels on various products. Even though the payout doesn’t cover plumbing repairs, the agreement gives consumers more leverage when negotiating with insurance companies if they’ve suffered damages from flushing these wipes. Plus, the settlement serves as a reminder to carefully examine marketing claims, particularly for products that can impact home infrastructure.
For those who haven’t experienced plumbing issues, this settlement offers an opportunity to check pipes and septic systems, preemptively avoiding costly repairs by removing existing blockages. It’s a small step toward ensuring that consumers aren’t unwittingly causing long-term damage to their home plumbing by trusting “flushable” claims that aren’t always reliable.
Final Steps
With the August 9, 2024 deadline fast approaching, it’s essential for eligible Costco customers to act quickly if they want to claim their share of the $2 million settlement. The process is straightforward and requires no proof of purchase, making it accessible for a broad range of eligible buyers.
Key Steps to File a Claim:
- Visit the official settlement website to access the claim form.
- Submit the form before the August 9, 2024, deadline.
- Ensure all provided information is accurate to facilitate a smooth process.
The settlement stands as a reminder for companies to deliver on product promises and for consumers to stay vigilant about marketing claims. Taking advantage of this compensation can help cover some costs, while reinforcing the importance of being cautious with flushable labels on everyday products.
FAQs
Who can claim Costco’s settlement?
Customers who bought Kirkland wipes from 2011 to 2017.
When is the deadline to file a claim?
Claims must be filed by August 9, 2024.
Do I need proof of purchase?
No, proof of purchase isn’t required.
How much can I receive from the settlement?
Eligible payouts range from $7.50 to $55.90.
Where can I file my claim?
File on the designated settlement website.
