Alright folks, it’s time to talk about a topic that might make you a little squeamish, but it’s important: what should and shouldn’t go down your toilet.
Now, we know you’re all grown-ups and you’ve got this whole toilet thing figured out, but you’d be surprised at how many people are flushing things they shouldn’t be.
The flushable wipe fallacy
One of the biggest culprits of toilet clogs and plumbing problems is the so-called “flushable” wipe. Despite what the packaging may claim, these wipes are not actually flushable. They don’t break down like toilet paper and can quickly lead to a nasty clog. The same goes for paper towels, tissues, and any other paper product that isn’t specifically designed for toilet use.
Hair today, clog tomorrow
When hair goes down the drain, ANY drain, it can quickly form a net that catches all sorts of other debris, leading to a major blockage. So, as tempting as it may be to flush stray hairs, resist the urge and toss them in the trash instead.
Feminine products are a no-go
Sanitary hygiene products should never be flushed down the toilet. Even if the package says they’re flushable (sensing a theme here?), they’re not. These products are designed to absorb liquid and expand, which is the exact opposite of what you want happening in your plumbing.
Anything that’s not biodegradable
As a general rule, if it’s not biodegradable, it doesn’t belong in your toilet. This includes things like dental floss, cotton swabs, Q-tips etc. These items can take years to break down and can wreak havoc on your plumbing and the environment in the meantime.
Also, there are some materials that are technically biodegradable, like paper towels, but the same logic applies to them as to “flushable” wipes – it takes them weeks to break down, at best, and that means they can still cause a clog either in your own plumbing, or contribute to clogs for your city.
When in doubt, throw it out
If you’re ever unsure about whether something can be flushed, err on the side of caution and toss it in the trash. Your plumbing (and your wallet) will thank you in the long run. Again, we’re not trying to make anyone feel silly or embarrassed about what they have or haven’t been flushing. There are a lot of things in life that people might not know and are too afraid to ask about, and that’s okay! We’re here to help, not to judge.
If you’re dealing with a clogged toilet or damaged pipes, don’t hesitate to give Weather Master a call for professional drain cleaning services in the Raleigh area. Our expert plumbers are ready to help with all your drain and plumbing needs. Contact us online or call us at (919) 853-7910!