Are Flushable Wipes Really Safe to Flush?
In today’s world, flushable wipes are marketed as a convenient and hygienic solution for personal care, household cleaning, and even baby care. At Abel Plumbing, we get a lot of questions about flushable wipes and whether they’re really safe to flush. While they’re marketed as convenient and hygienic, the truth is, flushable wipes can cause serious issues for your plumbing. Let’s break down why these wipes aren’t as safe as they seem and offer some alternatives to keep your plumbing running smoothly.
What Are Flushable Wipes?
Flushable wipes are made from nonwoven fabric, designed to break down when exposed to water. They’re advertised as an easy-to-use product that can be flushed down the toilet after use, eliminating the need to throw them away. However, this claim has become a point of contention for many homeowners, plumbers, and environmental experts alike.
Why Flushable Wipes Are a Problem
Flushable wipes are made from synthetic materials that don’t break down easily in water, unlike regular toilet paper. This can lead to:
Clogs: Wipes can get stuck in pipes and create blockages, especially in older homes with narrow plumbing.
Costly Repairs: If wipes cause a clog, you could be facing expensive plumbing repairs, including clearing out blockages or even replacing pipes.
Septic System Damage: If you have a septic system, flushing wipes can disrupt the breakdown process and damage your system, leading to costly fixes.
Environmental Impact: Wipes that don’t break down can pollute our waterways, harming aquatic life with plastic and synthetic fibers.
What to Do if You’ve Already Flushed Wipes
If you’ve used flushable wipes and are noticing slow drainage or clogs, it’s essential to act quickly to avoid further damage.
Try to Clear the Clog Yourself – If you’re comfortable doing so, you can attempt to clear minor clogs with a plunger or a drain snake.
Call a Plumber – If the clog is severe or affecting the overall plumbing system, it’s best to call a professional like Abel Plumbing to avoid further damage.
Avoid Flushing Wipes in the Future – To prevent future clogs, avoid flushing any type of wipe, even those labeled "flushable." Instead, dispose of them in the trash to keep your pipes and septic system safe.
Is There an Alternative to Flushable Wipes?
To avoid clogs or damage that can be caused by flushable wipes, a bidet offers a cleaner and more eco-friendly solution. A bidet can replace the need for wipes entirely and save the cost of flushable wipes and the potential costly repairs resulting from their use. Abel Plumbing can install a bidet in your home, saving you money and saving the environment.
While flushable wipes may seem like a convenient and hygienic solution, they can cause major problems for your plumbing, septic systems, and the environment. If you’re experiencing clogs from flushable wipes or are having any other plumbing problems, contact Abel Plumbing today! We’re here to help, whether it’s to clear clogs, install a bidet, or help with any of your plumbing needs.