Did you know that there are some things you should never flush down the toilet?
While most people are aware of the fact that you shouldn’t flush diapers, wipes, or other solid waste items, many people don’t realize that some other items can also be harmful to sewer systems and septic tanks. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the items you should never flush down your toilet.
Stay safe and avoid costly plumbing repairs!
Is your toilet clogged because you accidentally flushed something down it? Don’t panic! You can visit this website to get in contact with the best plumbers in Tempe, AZ.
Table of Contents
Never put these 7 items in your toilet
We highly suggest that you avoid flushing these types of items down your toilet:
Food or food scraps
One of the things that you should never flush down the toilet is food. Even if you think that the food has been completely digested, there can still be small pieces that will clog up your pipes. Additionally, food can attract pests, such as rats and cockroaches, which can then enter your home through the sewer system.
Paper
Another thing that you should avoid flushing down the toilet is paper. This includes paper towels and napkins. While most types of paper are designed to break down in the water, it can still take a long time for them to do so. Additionally, if you have a septic tank, flushing paper products can cause problems with the bacteria that help to break down waste.
Feminine products
Feminine hygiene products, such as tampons and pads, should also not be flushed down the toilet. These products can absorb water and swell, which can then cause them to block your pipes. Additionally, feminine products can contain harmful chemicals that can pollute water sources.
Diapers
Diapers are another type of product that should not be flushed down the toilet. Like feminine products, diapers can absorb water and swell, causing them to block your pipes. Additionally, diapers often contain harmful chemicals, such as dioxins and furans, which can leach into the environment when they are flushed down the toilet.
Medications
Medications should also never be flushed down the toilet as they can contaminate water supplies. When medications are flushed down the toilet, they end up in sewage treatment plants where they are not always removed effectively. As a result, traces of medications can end up in our drinking water and pose a risk to human health.
Hazardous or harmful chemicals
Hazardous chemicals shouldn’t be flushed down the toilet due to the fact that they can cause serious environmental damage. When these chemicals are flushed down the toilet, they end up in our waterways where they can pollute the water and harm aquatic life.
Cat litter
Cat litter shouldn’t be flushed down a toilet as it can clog pipes and cause sewage backups. Additionally, cat litter often contains harmful bacteria that can contaminate water supplies. If you need to dispose of cat litter, it is best to scoop it into a plastic bag and throw it in the garbage.
3 things that you can safely flush down your toilet
You can safely flush the following items down your toilet:
Toilet paper
Toilet paper is designed to break down very quickly in liquids, so it’s safe for you to flush down your toilet.
Human waste
Human waste, such as urine and feces, can be flushed down the toilet without causing any damage.
Flushable wipes
Flushable wipes are designed to break down quickly in water, so they are safe to flush down the toilet.
Who can you call if your toilet is clogged by one of the items listed above?
If your toilet is clogged, you need to assess the situation. Is the water level rising in the bowl? If so, you may want to turn off the water supply to prevent overflow. Is there an object blocking the drain? If so, you may be able to remove it yourself. However, if the blockage is severe, you may need to call a plumbing professional.
Plumbers have the tools and training necessary to quickly clear even the most stubborn clogs. In addition, they can assess the condition of your pipes and make sure there is no damage that could cause future problems. So if your toilet is giving you trouble, don’t hesitate to give your local plumber a call.
Also Read: 7 Reasons Why Proper Mold Remediation Starts From The Basement
7 things you shouldn’t flush down the toilet — Conclusion
While we’ve covered some of the things you should never flush down your toilet, it’s important to remember that there are many other items that can cause clogs and backups.
If you have any questions about what can and cannot be flushed, please contact a professional plumbing service for assistance.