Many homeowners question whether flushable wipes are safe to flush down their drains or if they’re causing hidden damage to their plumbing system. Although flushable wipes are marketed as sewer- and septic-safe, they may not be as flushable as they claim.
Today, we’ll look into what can happen when you flush these wipes, how they compare to toilet paper, and whether they’re safe for your home’s plumbing system. By the end, you’ll have the facts you need to make an informed decision about what should and shouldn’t go down your drains.
Why Are Flushable Wipes Labeled “Flushable”?
Manufacturers label certain wipes as “flushable” because they claim to have designed these products to break down quickly in water, similar to toilet paper. However, despite the name and intention, flushable wipes often lead to clogged pipes, plumbing backups, and costly repairs.
Flushable wipes can be harmful to your plumbing for many reasons. Although they claim to break down quickly, they often stay intact for longer periods and can create blockages in your pipes, requiring professional drain cleaning.
What Does Flushable Mean?
The term “flushable” suggests that an item is designed to quickly and efficiently disintegrate once flushed. However, this isn’t always true of wipes.
In addition to clogged drains and pipes, flushable wipes can build up for homeowners with septic systems, resulting in potential system failure. Over time, they can lead to larger municipal sewage blockages, creating a hassle for many homeowners.
What Not To Flush Down the Toilet
Though convenient, it’s important to refrain from flushing most wipes down your toilet. You should always do your research, even if the product is marked as flushable. Opting for the trash is your best bet at preventing costly, frustrating plumbing issues down the line. Some other items you should avoid flushing include:
- Feminine products
- Diapers
- Paper towels
- Cotton balls and swabs
- Hair
- Medications
- Cigarette butts
- Cooking grease
Alternatives to Flushable Wipes
If flushable wipes are an important part of your routine, don’t fret — alternative similar options exist without the risk of damaging your plumbing system. Some useful and eco-friendly alternatives include:
- Reusable washcloths: Once used, washcloths can easily be thrown into the dirty laundry.
- Compostable wipes: Some manufacturers make compostable wipes made from natural materials that can be disposed of in the trash.
- Wet wipes: You can still use wet wipes as long as you properly dispose of them in the trash.
- DIY wipes: Another environmentally friendly solution is making your own wet wipes by mixing water and gentle soap and using the mixture with soft cloths.
Call Bowman’s for All Toilet & Pipe Clogs in the Sterling, VA, Area
“Flushable” wipes aren’t as flushable as they claim to be, so disposing of them properly or implementing better alternatives is critical. Proper plumbing maintenance is also essential to preserving the health and efficiency of your plumbing system.
When issues strike, Bowman’s Plumbing, Heating, Air Conditioning & Electrical, Inc. offers exceptional toilet and pipe clog removal for our Sterling community. Established in 1989, our company takes pride in remaining a one-stop shop for full-service plumbing work.
We’re here to help. Schedule professional plumbing services with our team today!
