Flushing the wrong items down the drain can lead to serious plumbing issues, environmental harm and costly repairs. While it might be tempting to use your toilet or sink as a convenient disposal method, many materials can cause blockages, damage pipes and harm local water systems. With this in mind, Everywhere Plumbing discusses ten things that you should never flush down the drain.
10 Things You Should Avoid Flushing Down The Drain
1. Grease and Oil
When hot, grease and oil may be liquid, but as they cool down, they solidify and can stick to the insides of pipes, leading to severe blockages. An alternative idea is to allow the grease and oil to cool and solidify in a container, then dispose of them in the trash.
2. Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds don’t break down easily and can accumulate in pipes, causing clogs over time. A more suitable method of disposal would be compost coffee grounds or to throw them in the garbage.
3. Eggshells
Eggshells can contribute to blockages, as the membrane within the shell can get tangled and cause build-up.An alternative disposal strategy would be to add eggshells to your compost bin or trash can.
4. Flushable Wipes
Despite being labeled as “flushable,” these wipes do not break down like toilet paper and can cause significant blockages in plumbing and sewer systems. It is better to dispose of the wipes in the trash.
5. Paper Towels and Tissues
These items are designed to be absorbent and do not disintegrate quickly in water, leading to potential clogs. We rather recommend throwing paper towels and tissues in the trash.
6. Feminine Hygiene Products
Sanitary pads, tampons, and other feminine hygiene products do not break down in water and can expand, causing major blockages. Wrap these products in toilet paper and dispose of them in a bin.
7. Hair
Hair can easily become tangled and form large clumps that block pipes. It is better to clean hair out of brushes and shower drains and dispose of it in the trash.
8. Medication
Flushing medications can introduce harmful chemicals into the water supply, affecting wildlife and water quality. It is sensible to take unused or expired medications to a local pharmacy for proper disposal or use a medication take-back program.
9. Cooking Flour and Dough
When combined with water, flour and dough can create a sticky paste that clogs pipes. You should dispose of flour and dough in the trash.
10. Chemical Cleaners
Harsh chemicals can corrode pipes and cause environmental damage when they enter the water supply. For alternative disposal, follow local guidelines for hazardous waste disposal or take them to a designated disposal facility.
What Are The Consequences Of Flushing The Wrong Items Down The Drain?
Flushing inappropriate items down the drain can lead to several adverse effects:
Clogged Pipes: Blockages in your plumbing system can cause backups and overflows, potentially leading to water damage in your home.
Sewer System Damage: Items that do not break down can clog municipal sewer systems, leading to costly repairs and environmental harm.
Water Pollution: Harmful substances and non-biodegradable materials can contaminate water sources, affecting wildlife and human health.
What Are Some Useful Tips For Maintaining Healthy Drains?
To keep your plumbing system functioning smoothly, follow these tips:
- Use Drain Screens: Install screens over drains to catch hair, food particles, and other debris.
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your drains regularly with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar followed by hot water. For the most effective results, book professional drain cleaning with experts.
- Mindful Disposal: Be conscious of what you’re flushing or washing down the drain. When in doubt, throw it out.
- Professional Inspections: Schedule regular plumbing inspections to identify and address potential issues before they become serious problems.
The Bottom Line
Proper disposal of waste is crucial for maintaining a healthy plumbing system and protecting the environment. By avoiding flushing these ten common items down the drain, you can prevent blockages, reduce the risk of plumbing emergencies, and contribute to a cleaner water supply. Remember, when it comes to your drains, it is better to be safe than sorry—dispose of waste responsibly and keep your plumbing system running smoothly.
