Flushable wipes have gained popularity in recent years as a convenient alternative to traditional toilet paper. They are marketed as being safe to flush down the toilet, but are they truly flushable? As a Yonkers plumber at Flotechs Plumbing, we’re here to shed light on the subject and explain why flushable wipes could be doing more harm than good to your pipes.
Are Flushable Wipes Really Flushable?
The short answer is NO. Despite their name and the claims made by manufacturers, flushable wipes are not as flushable as they may seem. Unlike toilet paper, which quickly dissolves in water, flushable wipes are made from materials that are more durable and that do not break down as easily. This leads to clogs and blockages in your plumbing system.
Are Flushable Wipes Septic Safe?
Even if you have a septic system, it’s important to note that flushable wipes are NOT septic safe either. Septic systems rely on the natural breakdown of waste, and flushable wipes disrupt this process. They can accumulate in the septic tank and cause backups, leading to costly repairs.
What Does “Plumber Approved” Mean?
You may come across products labeled as “plumber approved,” suggesting that they are safe to flush. However, it’s essential to understand that these labels are not regulated and can be misleading. Plumbers, like myself, advise against flushing any wipes, including those labeled as flushable. It’s always best to stick to toilet paper for flushing and dispose of wipes in the trash.
The Consequences of Flushing Flushable Wipes:
Flushing flushable wipes can have several detrimental effects on your plumbing system. They can cause blockages in your pipes, leading to slow drains or complete backups. This can result in unpleasant odors, water damage, and the need for costly repairs.
Flushable wipes can also contribute to sewer line clogs in your neighborhood’s sewage system. These clogs can affect not only your home but also the entire community, leading to sewer backups and environmental hazards.
What Can You Do to Avoid A Plumbing Emergency?
To avoid plumbing issues caused by flushable wipes, follow these recommendations:
Stick to toilet paper: Use only toilet paper when flushing waste down the toilet. Toilet paper is specifically designed to break down easily in water and is less likely to cause clogs.
Dispose of wipes properly: Instead of flushing flushable wipes, dispose of them in the trash. This helps prevent clogs and protects your plumbing system.
Educate others: Spread awareness about the potential hazards of flushable wipes. Inform your family, friends, and community about the importance of proper waste disposal to avoid plumbing problems.
Flushable wipes may promise convenience, but they pose significant risks to your plumbing system. Despite their claims of being flushable and plumber approved, these wipes can lead to clogs, backups, and expensive repairs. It’s crucial to use only toilet paper when flushing waste and dispose of wipes in the trash. By taking these precautions, you can protect your pipes and maintain a healthy plumbing system.
Remember, if you ever encounter plumbing issues or suspect a clog caused by flushable wipes, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional plumber. At Flotechs Plumbing, we offer services such as video pipe inspections, drain cleaning, and general plumbing repairs to keep your plumbing system in optimal condition.
Flotechs Plumbing & Heating is a Yonkers plumbing company that serves residential, commercial and building management companies with heating, cooling and plumbing services. We service the county of Westchester and are open 24/7 for plumbing emergencies and general plumbing repairs, new boilers, hot water heaters and gas leak testing.
