Flushable wipes might seem easy, but are they safe for your plumbing?
Many people believe they can be flushed without worry.
Yet, these wipes can cause serious problems.
This article explores why you might think twice before flushing them down the toilet.
Key Takeaways
- Toilet paper breaks down quickly in water, making it safe for plumbing.
- Flushable wipes are thicker and don’t dissolve easily, causing plumbing problems.
- Wipes can combine with grease and waste to create large blockages in sewer systems.
- “Flushable” does not mean the wipes will dissolve like toilet paper.
- Research shows flushable wipes can travel through pipes without breaking down.
- Flushable wipes can clog toilets and block pipes, leading to costly repairs.
- Many manufacturers claim wipes are safe to flush but can still cause issues.
- Always dispose of wipes in the trash instead of flushing them to avoid plumbing problems.
- Alternatives to wipes include toilet paper, bidets, reusable cloth wipes, and natural cleaning products.
- Regular plumbing maintenance can help prevent blockages caused by wipes.
Flushable Wipes Vs. Traditional Toilet Paper: A Simple Guide
Here is a detailed comparison between flushable wipes and traditional toilet paper.
This guide explains how they differ in dissolvability and plumbing safety.
It also highlights why toilet paper is safer and the problems flushable wipes can cause.
Keep reading to learn more!
Biodegradability (Reusable) And Dissolvability (Breakable)
Toilet paper is made to break apart quickly when it gets wet.
This helps it dissolve in water and flow smoothly through pipes.
Also, this makes it safe to flush because it doesn’t stick to pipes or block water flow.
It is also biodegradable, as it naturally breaks down over time in the environment.
Flushable wipes are stronger and thicker.
They don’t fall apart easily in water.
A few brands claim they are biodegradable.
Yet, they take much longer to break down than toilet paper.
They can get stuck in pipes and combine with grease and other debris, creating large clogs.
This can cause problems in plumbing systems.
Common Plumbing Problems Caused By Flushable Wipes
Here are four common plumbing problems caused by flushable wipes.
1. Clogged Toilets
When flushable wipes don’t break down, they can block your toilet.
This results in backups and messy overflows.
2. Blocked Pipes
Wipes can build up inside pipes, especially in narrow and older ones.
This can slow water flow or completely block it, requiring expensive repairs.
3. Sewer System Issues
In city sewer systems, wipes can mix with fat and other waste to create huge blockages called “fatbergs.”
These are difficult and costly to remove.
4. Damaged Pipes
Pressure from blockages can crack and damage pipes, leading to leaks.
Fixing these problems can cost a lot of money.
5. Real-Life Examples
Many cities have faced issues with wipes in sewer systems.
London found a huge “fatberg” of wipes and grease in its sewers.
It weighed several tons and took weeks to remove.
Homeowners often call plumbers to fix clogs from wipes, which can be expensive.
The Marketing Claims Vs. Reality: Flushable Wipes
Here is a comparison between marketing claims and the reality of flushable wipes.
Although they are promoted as safe, most don’t break down like toilet paper and can cause plumbing issues.
1. What Manufacturers Claim
Companies that make flushable wipes often say their products are safe to flush.
They claim the wipes are reusable, dissolve in water, and do not cause plumbing problems.
These marketing messages make people believe wipes are as safe as toilet paper.
2. What Research Says
Studies and tests show a big difference between toilet paper and flushable wipes.
Toilet paper dissolves quickly in water, but most flushable wipes don’t break down easily.
Some wipes stay perfect for weeks, travelling through pipes without breaking apart.
This can cause clogs and blockages in home plumbing and city sewer systems.
3. Misunderstandings About “Flushable”
“Flushable” only means the wipe can go down the toilet.
It doesn’t mean it will dissolve like toilet paper.
Many people think “flushable” wipes disappear after flushing.
Yet they stay solid and can cause problems later.
Practical Advice For Homeowners
If flushable wipes are causing problems in your plumbing, follow these steps.
1. Call A Plumber
If you notice clogs and slow drains, it’s best to call a plumber.
They will inspect and fix the issue better.
Contact us at OP Plumbing Hub for expert help and advice.
2. Avoid Further Flushing
Stop flushing wipes immediately to prevent the problem from worsening.
Dispose of them in the trash to avoid causing further blockages in your plumbing system.
3. Use A Plumbing Snake Or Plunger
You can use a plunger or plumbing snake to clear the pipes for minor clogs.
Yet, this may only provide a temporary fix.
4. Check Your Septic System
If you have a septic tank, flushable wipes can cause blockages.
Have a professional inspect the tank to make sure it’s working properly.
Alternatives To Flushable Wipes For Personal Hygiene And Household Cleaning
Here are some better alternatives to flushable wipes.
- -Toilet Paper: Stick to regular toilet paper, designed to dissolve easily in water.
- Bidets: A bidet is a water-based alternative that cleans without wipes or toilet paper.
- Reusable Cloth Wipes: For those who prefer a wipe, you can use cloth wipes that can be washed and reused.
- Natural Cleaning Products: For cleaning surfaces in your home, use reusable cleaning cloths or natural sanitisers.
Tips For Managing Wipes In Your Home
To prevent plumbing problems, follow these simple tips:
1. Dispose Of Wipes In The Trash
Always throw wipes in the trash instead of flushing them.
Keep a trash can nearby for easy disposal.
2. Educate Your Household
Ensure everyone in your home knows not to flush wipes, even if labelled “flushable.”
3. Use A Disposable Bag For Wipes
For easiness, you can keep a small, disposable bag next to the toilet for wipes.
4. Regular Plumbing Maintenance
Have your pipes checked regularly to ensure no hidden blockages caused by wipes.
Conclusion
This article discusses whether flushable wipes are safe for your plumbing.
They don’t dissolve easily and can cause clogs and damage to pipes.
Homeowners should avoid flushing wipes and consider alternatives like toilet paper or bidets.
Share this information with others to help protect your plumbing and the environment.