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Your toilet is designed to handle only certain types of waste, and flushing the wrong items can lead to clogs, backups, and costly plumbing repairs. At Atlas Plumbing & Rooter, we’ve seen firsthand the chaos that improper flushing can cause. To help you avoid plumbing disasters, here’s a simple guide to what you should NEVER flush down your toilet.
1. Wipes (Even if Labeled “Flushable”)
Disposable wipes might claim to be flushable, but they don’t break down like toilet paper. These wipes can become lodged in your pipes or combine with other debris to create large blockages. Over time, they can contribute to massive clogs known as “fatbergs” in municipal sewer systems.
What to Do Instead: Toss all wipes, including baby wipes, makeup wipes, and cleaning wipes, into a trash bin.
2. Paper Towels and Tissues
Unlike toilet paper, which is specifically designed to dissolve in water, paper towels and tissues are more durable and can easily cause clogs.
Pro Tip: If you need an alternative in an emergency, use toilet paper substitutes sparingly and dispose of them in the trash instead of the toilet.
3. Feminine Hygiene Products
Tampons, sanitary pads, and other feminine hygiene products should never be flushed. These items absorb water instead of breaking down, leading to blockages in both your plumbing and the sewer system.
Alternative Disposal Method: Wrap used products in toilet paper and place them in a wastebasket lined with a disposable bag.
4. Cotton Balls, Swabs, and Pads
Cotton products might seem harmless because they're small, but they don't disintegrate in water. Instead, they tend to clump together, creating mass obstructions in your pipes.
Proper Disposal: These items belong in the trash. Keep a small waste container in your bathroom for easy cleanup.
5. Dental Floss
Dental floss might appear harmless, but it’s surprisingly strong and can wrap around other debris in your pipes. Over time, it contributes to significant blockages.
Better Practice: Dispose of floss in the trash to keep your plumbing running smoothly.
6. Grease and Oil
Although most people wouldn’t think to pour grease or oil down the toilet, it’s worth a mention. These substances can harden in your pipes, leading to blockages over time.
Tip: Instead of flushing or pouring grease down any drain, allow it to cool and solidify, then throw it away in the garbage.
7. Hair
Hair might slip down the toilet easily, but it’s a significant contributor to plumbing problems. Once it’s flushed, it can tangle with other debris and form stubborn clogs.
Quick Solution: Gather loose hair and throw it in the trash or compost it if possible.
What Happens If You Flush the Wrong Thing?
Flushing improper items isn’t just bad for your plumbing; it can also impact the environment and your wallet. Here’s what you risk:
- Costly Repairs: Blockages in your pipes can require professional cleaning or pipe replacement, which can be expensive.
- Sewer Backups: Flushed materials can lead to backups that affect your home or the entire neighborhood.
- Environmental Damage: Some items, like wipes and hygiene products, can end up polluting rivers, oceans, and aquatic ecosystems.
How to Protect Your Plumbing
To avoid these consequences, adopt these simple habits to keep your toilet running smoothly:
- Stick to the Basics: Only flush toilet paper and human waste.
- Have a Bathroom Trash Bin: Make it easy for family members and guests to dispose of non-flushable items.
- Educate Your Household: Ensure everyone knows what belongs in the toilet and what doesn’t.
When to Call the Professionals
Even with proper habits, plumbing problems can still arise. If you’re experiencing frequent clogs or slow drainage, it might be time to call in the experts. At Atlas Plumbing & Rooter, we specialize in clearing blockages, fixing damaged pipes, and keeping your plumbing in top shape.
Don’t wait until a minor issue becomes a major disaster. Contact Atlas Plumbing & Rooter today to schedule an inspection or a quick repair. Your home’s plumbing system will thank you!