While the toilet may seem like a convenient solution for getting rid of various waste items, not everything is suitable for flushing. Certain materials can wreak havoc on our plumbing systems, leading to costly repairs and potential environmental damage. To prevent clogs, backups, and other plumbing issues, it is essential to understand what we shouldn’t flush and find alternative disposal methods. Here is a list of items you should never put in the toilet.
- Non-Biodegradable Items
One of the most important things to avoid putting down the toilet is anything that isn’t biodegradable. These are materials that do not break down naturally in the environment. Things like plastic wrappers, disposable diapers, sanitary pads, cotton swabs, and plastic bags should never be flushed down the toilet. These items can clog the pipes and cause blockages in the sewage system. Furthermore, they can end up in rivers, lakes, and oceans, posing a significant threat to marine life and ecosystems.
- Wet Wipes and Baby Wipes
While wipes may claim to be “flushable,” they still aren’t appropriate for our plumbing systems. They are typically made of synthetic materials that do not disintegrate easily. Even if they flush down the toilet without causing an immediate clog, they can accumulate in the sewer pipes and contribute to blockages over time. Instead, experts recommend disposing of wipes in the trash bin.
- Cooking Grease and Oils
Pouring grease and cooking oil down the toilet is a common mistake that can have serious consequences. When these substances cool and solidify, they can coat the inner walls of the plumbing system, causing blockages and reducing water flow. Over time, the buildup can lead to complete clogs that require professional intervention. It’s best to dispose of grease and cooking oil in a proper container and throw it in the trash or recycle it, if possible.
- Hair
While it may seem harmless to flush hair down the toilet, it is best to avoid doing so. Hair can accumulate in the pipes and combine with other substances to create blockages. In addition, hair is not easily broken down by bacteria, further exacerbating the problem.
- Dental Floss and Cotton Balls
Dental floss and cotton balls may seem small and harmless, but they can cause significant damage to plumbing systems. These items do not break down easily and can get tangled up in pipes, leading to clogs and blockages.
- Cat Litter
Avoid flushing cat litter down the toilet at all costs. Cat litter often contains clay, sand, or other materials that don’t break down in water. Additionally, cat feces can contain a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii, which can survive water treatment processes and pose a risk to marine life.
- Paper Towels and Tissues
While toilet paper is specifically designed to break down in water, paper towels and tissues are not. These materials are more durable and can cause clogs and blockages in the plumbing system. Always dispose of paper towels and tissues in the trash bin instead of flushing them down the toilet.
- Medications and Pharmaceuticals
Flushing medications and pharmaceuticals down the toilet may seem like a convenient way to dispose of them, but it can have negative effects on the environment. Wastewater treatment plants are not designed to remove all types of pharmaceutical compounds, which means these substances can end up in bodies of water and potentially harm aquatic life. Instead, check with your local pharmacy or healthcare provider for safe disposal options such as take-back programs or special collection events.
- Chemical Drain Cleaners
It might be tempting to use chemical drain cleaners to clear a clogged toilet, but these products can be highly corrosive and damaging to your plumbing system. They can weaken pipes and cause leaks over time. Instead, use a plunger or a plumbing snake to remove the clog. If the problem persists, call a professional plumber with the tools to do the job safely.
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