It’s a topic that might not often come up in casual conversation, yet it’s one every homeowner should take seriously—the potential pitfalls of flushing the wrong items down the toilet. This blog will dig deeper to unearth some of the lesser-known items that pose risks to your plumbing and why they’re best kept away from your toilet bowl.
The Eco-Unfriendly Offenders
“Flushable” Personal Hygiene Products
Despite being marketed as flushable, items like personal hygiene wipes and feminine products don’t disintegrate quickly enough, posing an environmental hazard as well as a plumbing risk.
Cigarette Butts
Not only do they cause plumbing blockages, but flushing cigarette butts down the toilet is also highly detrimental to the environment.
Cleaning Pads and Sponges
These items contain synthetic fibers and chemicals that neither degrade quickly nor are eco-friendly.
The Sneaky Items You Never Thought About
Chewing Gum
Gum doesn’t disintegrate in water and can stick to the insides of pipes, leading to blockages.
Fruit Peels and Pits
Though organic, fruit peels and pits take a long time to decompose and should never be flushed down the toilet.
Diapers and Baby Products
Their absorbent nature makes them expand in water, causing severe blockages.
Steps to Safeguard Your Plumbing
- Information Labels: Consider attaching a list of items not to flush next to the toilet as a reminder.
- Consult Professionals: If you suspect a clog, don’t attempt to fix it with chemicals immediately, as they can harm your pipes. Instead, consult a plumbing professional.
- Eco-Friendly Disposal: Learn about eco-friendly ways to dispose of harmful items, like medications and chemicals, to protect both your plumbing and the environment.
Conclusion
The toilet is a plumbing fixture that’s often taken for granted until something goes awry. By being mindful of what goes down the drain, you can spare yourself the headache of plumbing issues and contribute positively to environmental conservation. Keep your plumbing healthy by ensuring that only appropriate items are flushed away.