Flushable wipes are a convenient and popular household item, especially for families with babies or small children. They are marketed as a quick and easy solution to maintain cleanliness and hygiene in the bathroom. However, as many plumbers will tell you, these wipes can cause serious damage to your plumbing system. In this blog post, we’ll explore why flushable wipes are bad for your plumbing, the problems they can cause, and what you can do to prevent issues from happening.
What are Flushable Wipes, and Why Are They Not Flushable?
Flushable wipes are made of non-woven materials and are soaked in various cleaning solutions, such as alcohol or soap. They are designed to be used for personal hygiene purposes, such as wiping after using the toilet or cleaning up spills. However, despite the “flushable” label, these wipes are not meant to be flushed down the toilet.
Unlike toilet paper, which dissolves easily in water, flushable wipes take much longer to break down. They can get caught on other debris in the sewer system, leading to clogs and backups. Even wipes that claim to be biodegradable can pose a problem since they take months or even years to break down completely.
The Problems Flushable Wipes Can Cause
If you flush flushable wipes down your toilet, you’re likely to encounter some plumbing problems. These include:
• Clogs: Flushable wipes can clog your pipes and lead to backups. Over time, these backups can cause sewage to back up into your home, leading to water damage and health risks.
• Damage to Your Plumbing System: When flushable wipes clog your pipes, they can also cause damage, such as cracks, leaks, and corrosion. These types of issues can be expensive to fix and can result in a complete need for repiping.
• Environmental Damage: When flushable wipes make it past your pipes, they can cause damage to the environment. They can end up polluting waterways, resulting in environmental harm.
Prevention Tips to Keep Your Plumbing Safe
The best way to prevent plumbing problems caused by flushable wipes is to avoid flushing them down the toilet. Instead, dispose of them in the trash can. You should also avoid using other items that are not meant for toilets, such as paper towels and feminine hygiene products, which can also cause clogs.
If you already have a clog caused by flushable wipes, it’s best to contact a professional plumber, like Bodenheimer Plumbing Services, to help you resolve the issue. A good plumber will be able to clear out your pipes safely and efficiently.
What Should You Do if You Have a Plumbing Issue Related to Flushable Wipes?
If you have a plumbing issue related to flushable wipes, your best bet is to call a professional plumber to help you fix the problem. They can assess the situation, locate the clog, and remove it safely. They can also provide tips and advice on how to avoid problems from happening in the future.
While Convenient, Flushable Wipes Can Cause Serious Damage to Your Plumbing
Flushable wipes may seem like a convenient solution to maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in the bathroom. However, they can cause serious problems for your plumbing system. If you’re using flushable wipes, it’s best to avoid flushing them down the toilet and dispose of them in the trash instead. If you’re experiencing plumbing issues due to flushable wipes, don’t hesitate to contact a professional plumber for help. Avoiding flushable wipes altogether maintains the efficiency and sustainability of your plumbing system, helping you avoid costly repairs and damage to the environment.
Bodenheimer Plumbing Services: Serving Triad Families Since the 1930’s
At Bodenheimer Plumbing Services, we specialize in all types of plumbing repairs and installations. Whether you’re having trouble with your toilet due to flushable wipes or just need regular maintenance, our experienced plumbers are here to help. We take the time to assess each situation and provide an effective solution that meets your needs. Get in touch today to learn more about how we can help you keep your plumbing system running smoothly.
