Why Flushable Wipes Shouldn't Be Flushed
American toilets are backing up as people at home are flushing more baby wipes and disinfectant wipes down the drain. Folklore lends that wipes labeled "flushable" can be flushed and that they will break down like toilet paper. Unfortunately, flushable wipes are named because they will go down the drain, but they won't break down the way toilet paper does.
As plumbers who see the not-so-fun aftermath of clogs and plumbing damage, we want to talk about why wipes labeled as "flushable" should not be flushed, nor should paper towels, disinfectant wipes, hygiene products or really anything other than toilet paper. Here's why:
They can get caught going down
The durability of sanitary wipes is the sheer reason they can cause blockages. Toilet paper can not clean up kitchen messes, nor can it be used to disinfect countertops. It seems silly when you think of it. Toilet paper definitely cannot get a baby's bum sparkling clean during the afternoon diaper change. These reasons tell us why wipes (labeled flushable or not) should not go down the toilet. They are designed to withstand breaking and tearing while they clean up messes TP cannot.
So even though the packaging says they're flushable, wipes do not break down like toilet paper. In fact, they can get caught on certain fittings or build up and create a clog.
They make residential plumbing problems worse
Homes with old plumbing or previous plumbing problems are the most likely to have issues with flushable wipes. If you have pre-existing issues, then wipes can make it worse and cause back-ups much quicker. Any wipes, feminine products, or other foreign objects are especially bad for septic systems.
They can cause city blockages
Across the country, sewer lines and toilets are clogging as the result of an increase in flushable wipe use. Hence, waste workers have to remove the buildups manually, which exposes those workers to hazardous waste. This is a tedious and dangerous job that can be avoided by consumers not putting wipes down the toilet.
What to do instead
Any sanitary item other than toilet paper does not belong in the toilet. To keep sewers flowing freely and clogs from happening, use discretion when disposing of wipes or paper towels and put them in the garbage.
If it seems like a stinky solution, use a bin that can be covered or bring the bathroom trash out daily. Adding a few extra steps to your routine can cause much less stress on your home and city plumbing.
Frontier Plumbing of Las Vegas is a full-service commercial and residential plumbing company offering a full spectrum of plumbing services. We are determined to exceed your expectations! Call 702-602-6705 today!