What Flushable Wipes Do To Your Plumbing

Have you ever been tempted to use flushable wipes instead of toilet paper in your bathroom? Maybe you’ve heard that they do a better job at cleaning and smell nicer? Well, before reaching for that packet of wipes, you should know the truth about how these products can actually be quite detrimental to your plumbing. In this blog post we will take an in-depth look into why it is important to steer clear of using them regularly. Find out what effects they have on your plumbing systems and the consequences it might bring if too many are flushed down the drain!

What are flushable wipes and why are they bad for plumbing

Flushable wipes are advertised as being safe for septic systems, but are they really? Flushable wipes may seem like a convenient and hygienic alternative to toilet paper, but they can cause serious problems for your plumbing and the environment. These moist wipes do not break down as easily as toilet paper, leading to clogs and blockages in pipes and sewer systems. This can lead to costly repairs and even damage to your septic tank. Furthermore, overuse of flushable wipes can upset the delicate balance of bacteria in your septic system, which helps to break down waste.

Environmental Cost

Many wastewater treatment plants have reported large amounts of flushable wipes causing significant damage to their systems. Even if the wipes do make it through the plumbing, they can contribute to sewer backups and pollution in our waterways. It’s important to remember that just because something is labeled as “flushable”, it doesn’t mean it’s safe to flush. It’s best to stick to using toilet paper and dispose of any other hygiene products in the trash.

Fatberg Effect

The fat berg effect is when flushable wipes combine with grease, fat, and other particles that are already trapped in pipes. This creates a formation similar to an iceberg. Formations like these can cause major clogs in drains and pipes. Fatbergs can become as long as 10 feet or longer and even weigh as much as 100 pounds. These clogs are often found in homes and result in huge plumbing repair costs. A smaller version of this clog is called a softball clog and is just as destructive.

All in all, while flushable wipes may seem like a convenient solution, it’s important to use them sparingly and prioritize toilet paper to avoid any unwanted consequences.