What you should never flush down the toilet: Avoid these mistakes to protect your plumbing

September 3rd, 2024

Toilets are an essential part of our homes, often considered just a means of waste disposal. However, many people don’t realize that toilets are not trash cans. Flushing certain items can not only damage your plumbing but also cause environmental problems. Here’s a guide on what you should never flush down the toilet and why it’s important to avoid these mistakes.

1. Disposable wipes

– Why not: Even those labelled “biodegradable” or “flushable” do not break down as easily as one might think. They can accumulate in pipes, causing clogs that lead to serious blockages. In severe cases, they contribute to the formation of “fatbergs,” large masses of grease and solid waste that block sewers and require costly interventions to remove.

2. Feminine hygiene products

– Why not: Tampons, sanitary pads, and applicators should never be flushed. These products are designed to absorb moisture and can expand upon contact with water, creating clogs in pipes. Even small pieces can build up over time, blocking pipes and causing unpleasant backups.

3. Medications

– Why not: While it may be tempting to dispose of expired or unused medications by flushing them, this can have harmful environmental effects. Chemicals in medications can contaminate water, affecting aquatic life and potentially returning to drinking water supplies after treatment. It’s best to return unused medications to a pharmacy for safe disposal.

4. Hair and fur

– Why not: Although they may seem harmless, hair and fur do not break down easily and can accumulate in pipes, creating stubborn clogs. They can also mix with other substances in pipes, worsening blockages. It’s better to throw hair in the trash rather than flushing it.

5. Grease, oil, and food scraps

– Why not: Grease and oil may appear liquid when hot, but they solidify as they cool, leading to clogs in pipes. Food scraps, even small ones, can also contribute to debris accumulation in pipes. Dispose of grease, oil, and food scraps in the trash or compost.

6. Cotton swabs and makeup remover pads

– Why not: These small items may seem harmless but can easily get stuck in pipe and cause blockages. They do not decompose quickly and can build up over time, worsening plumbing problems.

Protecting your plumbing is crucial to avoid costly repairs and household inconveniences. By avoiding flushing these items, you also help protect the environment and ensure the proper functioning of sewer systems in L’Île-Perrot. Take the time to educate your family and friends about these best practices, as a small action today can prevent major problems tomorrow. If you have concerns about your plumbing in L’Île-Perrot, contact Plomberie Richard et fils.