When it comes to your toilet, knowing what to flush can save you a lot of headaches. There are several everyday items that might seem harmless but can cause serious plumbing issues if flushed down the toilet.
It’s easy to overlook certain products when you’re in a hurry, but being mindful can make a big difference. In this article, you’ll learn about common items that should never enter your toilet, keeping your household running smoothly and efficiently.
1. “Flushable” wipes
You might think “flushable” wipes are safe to toss down the toilet, but that’s not the case. Despite what the packaging says, these wipes don’t break down like regular toilet paper.
They can lead to serious clogs in your plumbing. Many homeowners have learned this the hard way, facing costly repairs after flushing these supposedly “flushable” products.
Stick to toilet paper and keep your plumbing clear!
2. Paper towels
You might think that paper towels can just be tossed in the toilet, but that’s not a good idea. They don’t break down like toilet paper does. When you flush them, they can easily cause clogs in your plumbing.
Instead of flushing them, just toss used paper towels in the trash. This simple switch can help keep your plumbing system running smoothly.
3. Cotton swabs
You might be tempted to flush cotton swabs after using them, but it’s a bad idea. They don’t break down in water like toilet paper does. Instead, they can easily clog your toilet. Over time, this can lead to bigger plumbing problems.
To keep your pipes happy, toss those swabs in the trash instead. Trust me, your plumbing will thank you later!
4. Dental Floss
You might think dental floss is harmless, but flushing it can cause big problems. Floss doesn’t break down like toilet paper. Instead, it can tangle with other debris.
This creates serious clogs in your pipes. Flushing floss can also contribute to environmental issues, as it can end up in waterways.
So, when you’re done flossing, toss it in the trash instead of the toilet. Your plumbing will thank you!
5. Hair strands
Flushing hair down the toilet might seem harmless, but it can lead to big plumbing problems. Hair doesn’t dissolve in water.
Instead, it tends to clump together, creating stubborn blockages in your pipes. Next time you’re cleaning up, toss those hair strands in the trash instead. Your plumbing will thank you!
6. Sanitary products
You might think it’s okay to flush sanitary products like tampons and pads, but it’s not. These items don’t break down in water like toilet paper does.
Even products labeled as “flushable” can cause problems. They can lead to clogs and damage your plumbing. Instead, wrap them in toilet paper and toss them in the trash. Your pipes will thank you!
7. Diapers
Flushing diapers down the toilet is a big no-no. They’re designed to absorb liquids, which means they don’t break down easily in water.
When you flush a diaper, it can quickly lead to clogs. This not only creates a mess but can also require a costly plumber visit to fix the problem. Always dispose of your diapers in the trash. It’s a simple step that keeps your plumbing in good shape.
8. Cooking grease
Flushing cooking grease down the toilet is a bad idea. When it cools, it hardens and sticks to pipes, leading to serious clogs. You might think it’s safe since it’s liquid at first, but don’t be fooled.
Instead of flushing, let the grease cool and pour it into a container. Once it solidifies, you can throw it away in the trash. Keeping your plumbing clear means fewer headaches later on!
9. Cat litter
Flushing cat litter is a common mistake. Even if some brands claim to be flushable, it can cause real plumbing problems. Most toilets don’t use enough water to move the litter through your pipes properly. This can lead to clogs and costly repairs.
It’s better to dispose of cat litter in the trash. Your pipes will thank you, and you’ll avoid unwanted plumbing issues. Keep your toilet happy and healthy by sticking to what’s safe to flush!
10. Chewing gum
Flushing chewing gum is a mistake. It doesn’t dissolve in water, which means it can lead to clogs in your plumbing. When gum goes down the toilet, it sticks to pipes and collects debris. This can create bigger blockages over time.
The best way to dispose of gum is in the trash. Keep your toilet free from unnecessary problems by just tossing it away.
11. Medication
You should never flush medication down the toilet. Toilet water doesn’t break down those drugs properly. Instead, they can end up in waterways, causing environmental harm.
If you’ve got old or unused pills, find a local drug take-back program. They are designed to dispose of medications safely.
Following proper disposal methods keeps both your home and the environment safe. It’s an easy choice that makes a big difference.
12. Band-aids
You might think it’s convenient to flush a used Band-aid, but it’s not a good idea. Band-aids are mostly made of plastic, which doesn’t break down in water. Flushing them can lead to clogged pipes and bigger plumbing issues down the line.
Instead, toss your used Band-aids in the trash where they belong. Keeping your plumbing clear is worth the extra effort!
13. Contact lenses
You might think it’s harmless, but flushing contact lenses can cause serious problems. Those tiny lenses are made of non-biodegradable materials that contribute to microplastic pollution.
When you flush them down the toilet, they can end up in water systems, harming marine life. Instead, throw them in the trash where they belong.
Keep your plumbing in check and protect the environment by disposing of your contact lenses properly. It’s a simple step you can take to make a difference.
