Are Flushable Wipes Ok To Flush?
What you need to know before using this popular bathroom product
If you are someone who routinely uses one of today’s top brands of flushable wipes, you’re already well-acquainted with the benefits. For a variety of reasons, it is easy to see why so many individuals purchase this common bathroom staple.
By now, you’ve probably heard that these wipes are not as flushable as they are marketed to be. However, is this true? If you are curious about whether or not you should be flushing wipes, learn more from our pros.
Should you flush “flushable” wipes?
The short answer to this question is a resounding “no.” While manufacturers of these wipes continue to encourage disposal by flushing, any plumbing or sewer professional would strongly disagree with this guidance.
While you may be able to get away with the occasional use of these wipes, frequent and prolonged wipe flushing will almost definitely result in a clog. Why? Unlike toilet paper, bathroom and feminine wipes are not made from materials that disintegrate within 24 hours. Instead, they are made from synthetic fibers that take weeks to break apart.
The risks are even worse if you have tree roots close to your home. Since tree roots can grow through a home’s underground pipes, these wipes can get tangled in the tree roots. This can lead to a serious blockage that needs emergency servicing.
Why are these wipes marketed as being flushable?
If flushable wipes are anything but flushable, why are they marketed that way? Ultimately, this comes down to a technicality. A flushable wipe WILL pass through the toilet so ‘technically’ it will flush. Much in the same way you could flush a golf ball. It might pass through the toilet but it’s definitely going to cause some problems with your plumbing. PSA: Do NOT attempt to flush a golf ball. Doing so could result in an expensive emergency service call.
What is the worst-case scenario if you frequently flush wipes down the drain?
Continuous use of flushable wipes can result in major clogs and costly damage to your home’s septic system. In the event that your pipes become totally blocked, emergency services are needed to restore water flow. Even if flushable wipes have not yet clogged your personal septic system, they can jam up city sewer systems. In various cities across the country, flushable wipes have been blamed for causing unsanitary blockages – resulting in millions of dollars in damages.
In order to protect your home’s pipes, stop flushing all wipes immediately. Only flush toilet paper and natural waste to ensure that your sewer system remains flowing at all times.
If you have been using flushable wipes on the regular, scheduling a routine drain cleaning is a wise choice. Offering affordable, expert services, we can help restore your drains and eliminate clogs. Contact our team at Austin today at 262-367-3808 to book your service.
