Let’s face it, wipes have almost become a necessity for everyday life. They’re highly convenient, and there’s a wipe for almost every aspect of your life. We tend to believe that due to their resemblance to toilet paper or their packaging being labeled as “flushable” that it’s safe to flush them down the toilet. However, this is a big mistake, and we’ll explain why.
What are Wipes Made of?
A majority of wipes on the market, regardless of their purpose, are made from a non-woven fabric of polyester or polypropylene and are moistened with water or other liquids. Compare that to the materials that make up toilet paper, which are the pulp of hardwood, softwood, and water. The materials that make up toilet paper make it easier for it to dissolve once flushed down the toilet, while the materials used to make cleansing wipes don’t break down as easily.
How They Affect Your Plumbing
The materials that make up wet wipes are the reason why, regardless of what the packaging says, it isn’t safe to flush them down the toilet. Believe it or not, your plumbing system is very fragile and most are not equipped to handle materials other than toilet paper. Wipes don’t break apart, and that can leave you with:
- A wall of wipes
- The ‘Fatberg Effect’ (congealed mass in a sewer system)
- Sewer system damage
Each one of these results can leave you having to pay hundreds of dollars worth of plumbing repairs. Even if they manage to get past your drains, they still pose a threat to your main sewer line and possibly even your entire sanitation system.
Is it Ever Safe To Flush Wipes?
The short answer is no. Manufactures have provided test results that seem to support that flushable wipes are safe. However, the test is usually done under perfect conditions. Your pipes and sewer systems are not perfect. To avoid costly repairs, even when the packaging claims to be “flushable”, do not risk it. The best way to dispose of these wipes is to put them in the trash.
Do You Have a Clog?
If you’re experiencing a clog in your home or commercial property, Michael Runk Plumbing and Heating is here for you. Our Westminster plumbing repair experts will identify the problem and give you advice on how to avoid plumbing issues in the future. To learn more or to set up an appointment, call or contact us today!