WHAT CAN I FLUSH DOWN THE DRAIN?

Flushing the toilet or washing your hands may seem like mundane and repetitive tasks when it comes to your daily routine. However, it is important to know that what you choose to send down the drain can have big impacts on both your plumbing system and the environment.

WHAT IS SAFE TO FLUSH?

 

There Are 3 Things You Can Flush Down the Toilet:

#1, #2, and toilet paper. That’s it.

WHAT IS NOT SAFE TO FLUSH AND WHY?

 

Baby Wipes and Flushable Wipes

While baby wipes and “flushable” wipes may be convenient, they wipes do not disintegrate quickly when exposed to water. They can build up and create blockages in your pipes, leading to expensive repairs.

Dental Floss

While it may seem harmless, dental floss is surprisingly sturdy. It is not biodegradable and can create issues in your plumbing. When dental floss combines with other debris, like hair or soap scum, it forms a tangled mass that clogs your pipes.

Medications and Pharmaceuticals

Flushing medicine down the toilet can introduce foreign chemicals into your surrounding ecosystem, harming aquatic life and even affecting your drinking water. Check for local medication take-back programs or drop-off locations to safely dispose of medications.

Hair and Personal Care Products

The hair and personal care products can accumulate in pipes, leading to blockages and reduced water flow. Simply toss them in the trash instead of flushing.

Feminine Hygiene Products

These can lead to serious plumbing and sewage system damage. These products are designed to absorb moisture and do not break down quickly in water. Dispose of them in the trash to avoid clogs and repairs.

Cotton Balls and Swabs

Cotton balls and swabs also do not break down in water like toilet paper. Flushing them can result in clogs and plumbing issues.

Hazardous Chemicals

Flushing hazardous chemicals can contaminate local water supplies and harm the environment. It’s important to always follow local regulations for the proper disposal of hazardous chemicals, which usually require using designated collection sites.

Cat Litter

Cat litter, even the clumping variety, should never be flushed. It can combine with water to create dense masses that quickly block pipes. Always dispose of cat litter in a sealed bag in the trash.

Paper Towels and Tissues

While toilet paper is designed to break down in water, paper towels and tissues are not. Flushing these items can lead to serious clogs.