.2504210712097.jpg)
Your toilet is one of the hardest-working fixtures in your home, but it’s not a catch-all garbage disposal. Flushing the wrong items can lead to clogged pipes, damaged plumbing, and costly repairs. To keep your system running smoothly, it’s crucial to understand what can and cannot go down your toilet.
Here’s a practical guide to help you avoid plumbing disasters by making better flushing decisions.
Why Flushing the Wrong Items Causes Issues
Toilets are designed to handle only specific types of waste. When other items are flushed, they don’t break down easily and can get stuck in your pipes or sewer system. Over time, this creates blockages that may result in slow drains, backups, or even flooding in your home.
Many problematic items are deceptively labeled as flushable. Despite marketing claims, they often don’t disintegrate as toilet paper does, staying intact as they accumulate in your system. Misusing your toilet this way not only affects your home but can also put a strain on public sewer systems and wastewater facilities.
Items You Should Never Flush
Personal Hygiene Products
Tampons, sanitary napkins, cotton balls, and wipes (even "flushable" ones) are some of the worst offenders. These items are not biodegradable and can quickly cause a clog in your system.
Paper Towels and Tissues
Unlike toilet paper, paper towels and tissues are not designed to break down in water. They are thicker and can easily block your toilet or pipes.
Grease and Oils
While it may seem harmless to pour leftover cooking grease into the toilet, these substances cool and solidify in pipes, forming stubborn blockages.
Dental Floss
Though it’s small, dental floss is non-biodegradable and can form net-like tangles that trap other debris in your plumbing.
Cotton Swabs and Ear Buds
These small items may slip through initial pipe structures but can build up further along the system, especially in narrower drains.
Medication
Flushing old pills and other medications is not only bad for your plumbing but can also harm the environment. Chemicals in the drugs can end up in waterways, contaminating ecosystems.
Miscellaneous Items
Plastic, hair, cigarette butts, bandages, and diapers are all major no-nos. These don’t dissolve and can wreak havoc on both your plumbing and your local sewage systems.
Better Flushing Habits Start at Home
To ensure your plumbing remains in tip-top shape, stick to flushing only human waste and toilet paper. Using a waste bin for other items is the simplest way to avoid unnecessary damage or repairs. If you live in a home with kids, consider teaching them what can and can’t go into the toilet to avoid accidental clogs.
Additionally, stay proactive about maintaining your plumbing system by scheduling regular checks and keeping an eye on slow drains or unusual gurgling sounds.
When Problems Strike, We’re Here for You
Despite your best efforts, clogs and plumbing issues can still occur. That’s where Delco Storm & Sewer Services comes in. With professional expertise and a focus on reliable solutions, we’re here to address your plumbing concerns and get your home back in order.
If you’re dealing with a stubborn clog or want to prevent disasters before they happen, don’t hesitate to reach out. Contact Delco Storm & Sewer Services today for expert assistance and peace of mind!