Plumber Wellington: What Not to Flush Down the Toilet – Laser Plumbing Wellington East
Plumber Wellington: What Not to Flush Down the Toilet – Laser Plumbing Wellington East
Many people assume that if something fits down the toilet, it’s safe to flush. However, this is not always the case. Flushing non-flushable items can cause blockages, damage your plumbing, and contribute to environmental pollution. To help you keep your plumbing system in top condition, here’s a list of common items you should never flush down the toilet.
Items You Should Never Flush
1. Paper Towels and Napkins
While paper towels and napkins are made from paper, they are designed to be highly absorbent and durable. Unlike toilet paper, they do not break down quickly in water, increasing the risk of blockages.
Proper Disposal: Dispose of paper towels and napkins in the rubbish bin or compost heap.
2. Facial Tissues
Facial tissues contain chemical binders that prevent them from dissolving as easily as toilet paper. When flushed, they can accumulate in your pipes and contribute to clogs.
Proper Disposal: Toss them in the rubbish bin or compost heap.
3. Newspaper and Regular Paper
Although paper does eventually break down, it does not dissolve as quickly as toilet paper. When flushed, it can form clumps that lead to blockages in your plumbing system.
Proper Disposal: Recycle newspaper and paper waste or dispose of them in the compost heap.
4. "Flushable" Wipes
Many wipes marketed as "flushable" do not actually break down like toilet paper. They contain synthetic fibers such as rayon or viscose, which do not disintegrate in water. These wipes frequently clog pipes and damage wastewater treatment systems.
Proper Disposal: Always throw wipes in the rubbish bin.
5. Pasta and Rice
Flushing leftover pasta or rice might seem harmless, but these foods absorb water and expand, creating a sticky mess that can clog your plumbing system.
Proper Disposal: Discard food waste in the rubbish bin or compost.
6. Hygiene Products (Tampons, Pads, and Wrappers)
Hygiene products, including tampons, sanitary pads, and their wrappers, are designed to absorb moisture and expand. When flushed, they can cause serious blockages in toilets and sewer systems.
Proper Disposal: Always wrap and dispose of them in the bin.
7. Hair
Hair does not dissolve in water and can easily tangle with other debris in the pipes, creating stubborn clogs.
Proper Disposal: Throw hair into the rubbish bin instead of flushing it.
8. Vegetable Oil and Grease
Pouring vegetable oil or grease down the toilet may seem convenient, but these substances solidify as they cool, leading to pipe blockages.
Proper Disposal: Allow oil to cool, then dispose of it in a sealed container in the bin.
Why Proper Disposal Matters
Flushing non-flushable items can cause:
- Blocked Toilets: Many materials do not break down properly and can clog your toilet’s plumbing.
- Pipe Damage: Items like wipes and grease can stick to pipes, leading to costly repairs.
- Sewer Backups: Clogged pipes can lead to sewage backups, creating a health hazard in your home.
- Environmental Harm: Items flushed down the toilet often end up in waterways, polluting the environment.
Common Questions About Flushing
Can Kleenex be flushed down the toilet?
No. Kleenex tissues are more durable than toilet paper and do not break down easily, increasing the risk of blockages.
Will tissues clog a toilet?
Yes. Unlike toilet paper, tissues do not dissolve quickly and can cause clogs when flushed in large amounts.
Can tampons be flushed?
No. Tampons absorb liquid and expand, making them a leading cause of toilet and sewer blockages. Always dispose of them in a bin.
Can hair go down the toilet?
No. Hair does not break down in water and can tangle with other debris, creating major plumbing issues.
Can vegetable oil be flushed?
No. Oil solidifies in pipes and causes severe blockages. Dispose of it in a sealed container in the rubbish bin.
Final Tip: If in Doubt, Throw It Out!
To keep your plumbing system functioning properly, only flush toilet paper and human waste. When in doubt, dispose of non-flushable items in the bin or compost. If you're experiencing plumbing issues or need expert advice, Laser Plumbing Wellington East is here to help. Contact us today for professional plumbing solutions!
Laser Plumbing Wellington East
4A Wakefield Street
Alicetown Wellington 5010
New Zealand
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