Avoid Toilet Repair: 18 Things to Never Flush Down Your Toilet

Safeguard Your Plumbing

Toilet clogs and subsequent repairs are not just inconvenient; they can also lead to costly plumbing issues. Many of these problems stem from flushing items that your toilet and sewer system aren’t designed to handle. Understanding what not to flush down your toilet can save you from unnecessary headaches and keep your plumbing system functioning properly. Here are 18 items to avoid flushing to maintain a healthy plumbing system.

Non-Flushable Items That Threaten Your Plumbing

1. Wipes (Even Those Labeled “Flushable”): Despite marketing claims, most wipes don’t disintegrate like toilet paper and can quickly lead to clogs.
2. Paper Towels & Tissues: These are designed to absorb moisture and won’t break down in water, contributing to blockages.
3. Cotton Balls & Swabs: They may seem small, but they can accumulate and obstruct pipes.
4. Dental Floss: It’s not biodegradable and can wrap around other debris in your pipes, exacerbating clogs.
5. Hair: Like dental floss, hair can entangle with other items and form significant blockages.
6. Feminine Hygiene Products: These products are highly absorbent and designed to expand, which means disaster for your plumbing.
7. Condoms: Made from latex, condoms are not biodegradable and can cause plumbing blockages.
8. Diapers: Their size and absorbency make them a definite no for flushing.
9. Cigarette Butts: Chemicals and filters can damage your sewage system and pollute waterways.
10. Medications: Flushing them can contaminate water supplies and harm aquatic life.
11. Cat Litter: Even “flushable” cat litter can clump and cause blockages, besides being a source of toxoplasmosis.
12. Cooking Grease/Fat: It may go down as a liquid but solidifies upon cooling, sticking to pipes and causing clogs.
13. Band-Aids: Made from non-biodegradable plastic, they contribute to sewer blockages.
14. Plastic Wrappers: All forms of plastic are non-biodegradable and can lead to significant plumbing issues.
15. Chewing Gum: It’s sticky and can easily adhere to pipes, causing clogs.
16. Baby Wipes: Similar to personal wipes, they are notorious for causing blockages.
17. Food Scraps: Even small bits can accumulate and create blockages, especially without a garbage disposal.
18. Paint: Besides potentially clogging pipes, paint can release harmful chemicals into the sewage system.

Protect Your Plumbing and Environment

Flushing inappropriate items not only risks clogs and plumbing damage but can also have adverse effects on the environment. Sewage treatment facilities are not designed to filter out many of these items, leading to environmental pollution and harm to wildlife.

By being mindful of what not to flush down your toilet, you can avoid unnecessary repairs, save money, and contribute to environmental protection. Remember, the toilet is not a trash can. If you’re ever in doubt, opt for the trash bin over the flush.

Need Help with Your Plumbing?

If you’re facing plumbing issues or want to learn more about maintaining a healthy system, Plumbing Masters in Phoenix is here to assist. Our team of experts can provide you with the knowledge and services to keep your plumbing in top condition. Contact us today for all your plumbing needs!