The commode seems like a great catch-all for disposing of things (mostly gross things). However, there’s an old adage that says, “Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.” There is actually quite a list of items you shouldn’t flush. Here’s our list of top 9 things you should never flush down the toilet.
Don’t Flush It #1: Grease, Oil, Or Fat
Think of your pipes are arteries in your body. While these items may go in a liquids, they will eventually solidify. The long term effects of flushing grease, oil, or fat means it will accumulate on your toilet’s plumbing, which can cause leaks. Gross. In fact, we recommend not flushing food at all.
Don’t Flush It #2: Personal Products
Yes, ladies and gentlemen. We recommend that you dispose of personal products in the waste basket. This includes bandages, diapers, feminine hygiene products, and condoms. This is for two reasons: (1) some products are designed to be absorbent, which can cause clogs (2) they aren’t biodegradable.
Don’t Flush It #3: Wipes Of Any Kind
Though it may say “flushable” on the package, these wipes are causing a big stink (literally). Turns out that these disposable wipes aren’t disintegrating as they’re marketed. Do you sewer a favor and toss them in the trash.
Don’t Flush It #4: Dental Floss
Dental floss isn’t biodegradable. While one string doesn’t seem to make a big difference, if you’re flossing daily (are you?), it adds up over time.
Don’t Flush It #5: Medication
This one is difficult. For various reasons, some people don’t feel comfortable throwing away medication. Perhaps someone in their life is an addict or they worry about small children finding them. So, flushing expired medications, is the easiest thing, right? Unfortunately, no. Adding pharmaceuticals and OTC medications to the water supply is dangerous to the environment. Check with your local pharmacy or the Midland County Sheriff’s Office to find out if there is a medication disposal drop-offs available.
Don’t Flush It #6: Kitty Litter
It’s all clumped already, right? Wrong. Cat litter usually contains clay, which helps in the clumping process. Over time, the clay can clog your toilets. However, you can always teach your cat to go in the toilet. Seriously.
Don’t Flush It #8: Hair
Just…don’t. Have you ever seen what a bathroom p-trap looks like after removing a clog? It’s the stuff of nightmares. Flushing hair (such as what’s removed from a hairbrush) down the toilet creates a “nest” in the pipes over time. Toss it in the trash!
Don’t Flush It #9: Paper Towels And Facial Tissue
Though these items are paper products, they aren’t toilet paper – and they can’t be expected to disintegrate like toilet paper. Another pro tip? The fancy quilted papers actually don’t dissolve like they should. Make sure you use thinner paper, especially in older homes where clogs are more likely.
Do you flush any of these things? We recommend stopping as soon as possible. If you’re concerned that your pipes may be clogged due to flushing some no-no items, give us a call. We’re pros at solving sticky, icky toilet problems!