5 Things NOT to Flush Down the Toilet

Flushing the wrong items down the toilet can cause serious plumbing issues and environmental damage. Many people mistakenly believe that toilets can handle all types of waste – but this is far from the case.

It’s crucial to understand that you should only flush toilet paper and human waste. Other items, no matter how small, can harm your plumbing system and pollute water sources. This article highlights five common items you should never flush down the loo.

#1 – Wet Wipes

Wet wipes, even those labelled flushable wipes, do not break down easily in toilet water. Unlike toilet tissue which disintegrates quickly, wet wipes are typically made from non-woven fabrics like polyester. They generally remain intact and can cause severe blockages in plumbing and sewage systems. These toilet blockages can lead to backups and overflows, resulting in costly repairs.

The environmental impact when you flush baby wipes is significant. When they reach waterways, they contribute to pollution and pose a threat to marine life. Wet wipes often end up in rivers and oceans, where they can be ingested by fish and other wildlife, causing injury or death.

Proper disposal of wet wipes is essential. Always throw them in the bin instead of flushing them down the toilet.

#2 – Cotton Buds and Cotton Pads

Cotton buds and cotton pads may seem harmless, but they can accumulate and create significant blockages in plumbing systems. Unlike paper towels, these items do not dissolve in water and can easily get stuck in pipes, leading to clogs that require professional intervention to fix.

Flushing buds and other cotton products down the toilet also contributes to environmental pollution. These items generally end up in the waste water system, adding to the growing problem of microplastic pollution. Once in the environment, they can break down into smaller particles, posing a threat to aquatic ecosystems and wildlife.

Proper disposal of cotton buds and pads is crucial for both plumbing and environmental health. Always place them in the bin rather than flushing them.

#3 – Medications

Flushing medications down the toilet poses serious health and safety risks. Pharmaceuticals can contaminate water supplies, as wastewater treatment plants are not designed to remove these substances. This contamination can affect both human health and wildlife.

Medications that enter water systems can disrupt aquatic ecosystems. Many drugs, even in small quantities, can be harmful to fish and other aquatic organisms. The presence of pharmaceuticals in waterways can lead to long-term ecological damage, affecting reproduction and growth in wildlife.

To dispose of medications safely, return them to pharmacies or participate in local take-back programs. These options ensure that medications are handled appropriately and do not pose a threat to health or the environment. By following proper disposal methods, you contribute to a safer and cleaner community.

#4 – Cooking Oils and Grease

Pouring cooking oils and grease down the toilet can lead to severe plumbing issues. These substances solidify as they cool, causing blockages in pipes. Over time, these blockages can grow, leading to costly repairs and potentially damaging your entire septic system.

Cooking oils and grease can also have a detrimental effect on the environment. When they enter the sewage system, they can reach waterways, creating a layer of film on the surface that blocks oxygen exchange. This can harm aquatic life by reducing the oxygen available in the water, which is essential for the survival of fish and other organisms.

Proper cooking oils and grease disposal involves letting them cool and solidify before placing them in a sealed container and throwing them in the bin. However, it’s not just oil and grease, as you should never be flushing food. This simple practice helps protect both your plumbing and the environment.

#5 – Hygiene Products

Flushing hygiene products, such as dental floss and sanitary pads and other feminine products, can clog toilets and cause severe blockages in plumbing systems. These products are designed to absorb water and therefore do not break down easily, leading to clogs that can be difficult and costly to remove.

The environmental impact of flushing these products is significant. They can end up in waterways, where they contribute to marine pollution. These items do not decompose quickly and can persist in the environment for many years, harming wildlife and ecosystems.

To dispose of hygiene and other menstrual products properly, always wrap them in toilet paper or a biodegradable bag and place them in the bin. This practice helps prevent plumbing issues and reduces the amount of non-biodegradable waste entering the environment, contributing to a cleaner, healthier planet.

Other Items to Keep Out of the Loo

Here’s a quick list of other things you should never flush down the toilet:

• Paper towel
• Cat litter or kitty litter
• Cigarette butts
• Chewing gum

Putting these products and materials in the rubbish bin, instead of flushing them down the loo, will help to protect your plumbing and the planet.

Take Care with What You Flush Down Your Toilet

Preventing plumbing issues and protecting the environment starts with understanding what should not be flushed down the toilet. Wet wipes, cotton buds, medications, cooking oils, and hygiene products all pose significant risks to both plumbing systems and the environment.

Disposing of these items correctly allows you to avoid costly repairs and contribute to a healthier ecosystem. Spread awareness among family and friends about the importance of proper waste disposal. Together, we can maintain a clean and efficient plumbing system and help preserve our natural resources for future generations.

Please note: Thanks for reading our blog “5 Things NOT To Flush Down The Toilet”. This information is provided for advice purposes only. Regulations differ from state to state, so please consult your local authorities or an industry professional before proceeding with any work. See After Hours Plumbing’s Terms & Conditions here.