
Unseen Heroes: The Role of Septic Tanks in Liquid Waste Removal
January 17, 2025The convenience of modern plumbing systems often leads us to take for granted the magic of flushing away our waste. However, not everything is meant to be flushed down the toilet. In this blog post, we’ll explore the common items that should never make their way into the toilet bowl, providing insights into why responsible flushing habits are essential for maintaining both personal plumbing and the larger wastewater infrastructure.
Wet Wipes:
Despite some wipes claiming to be “flushable,” they don’t disintegrate as readily as toilet paper. Wet wipes can accumulate in pipes and sewers, forming stubborn blockages that are expensive and challenging to remove. Dispose of wet wipes in the trash to preventplumbing issues.
Feminine Hygiene Products:Tampons, pads, and other feminine hygiene products should never be flushed down the toilet. These items do not break down easily and can cause blockages in both household pipes and municipal sewage systems. Dispose of these products in the trash.
Paper Towels and Tissues:
While toilet paper is designed to break down quickly in water, paper towels and tissues are not. Flushing these items can lead to clogs and backups. Always dispose of paper towels and tissues in the trash.
Cotton Balls and Swabs:
Cotton balls and swabs may seem harmless, but they can accumulate in pipes and create blockages over time. Dispose of these items in the trash to prevent plumbing issues.
Dental Floss:
Dental floss is non-biodegradable and can wrap around pipes, creating a web that captures other debris. It’s better to discard dental floss in the trash to avoid potential blockages.
Hair:
Hair can clump together and combine with other substances in the pipes, creating clogs that impede water flow. Use drain screens to catch hair and dispose of it in the trash.
Cooking Grease and Oil:
Pouring cooking grease or oil down the toilet may seem like an easy solution, but it can solidify in pipes and lead to blockages. Dispose of grease and oil in a designated container, allowing it to solidify before discarding it in the trash.
Medications:
Flushing medications down the toilet can contribute to water contamination. Follow proper disposal methods, such as using designated drop-off locations, to ensure the safe and environmentally friendly disposal of medications.
Cat Litter:
Cat litter is often made from materials that do not break down in water. Flushing it down the toilet can lead to clogs. Dispose of cat litter in the trash.