The term "flushable wipes" can be misleading, as many consumers believe they are safe for toilets and sewer systems. While these wipes might disappear down your drain, they often cause significant plumbing issues and environmental concerns in the long run. C. Lee Services specializes in drain cleaning in Akron, OH, and we'll explain why it's best to dispose of these products in the trash rather than flushing them down the toilet.
What Really Happens After You Flush These 'Flushable' Wipes?
In truth, flushable wipes don't break down as quickly or as completely as toilet paper does. These wipes are often made of synthetic materials or fibers designed to maintain their structure, which means they don't disintegrate in water. Over time, this can lead to blockages in your pipes and clogs in sewer systems that can be challenging to address without expert drain cleaning services.
Discussing Environmental Impact
Beyond plumbing issues that start from a clogged drain, flushing these wipes poses environmental risks. Many wipes that reach wastewater treatment plants are filtered out and often sent to landfills. Some wipes that don't get captured can end up polluting waterways, damaging ecosystems, and harming aquatic wildlife. By eliminating wipes from your flush routine, you can help protect the environment from unnecessary waste and pollution.
What Should You Do Instead?
We’re by no means suggesting that you stop using wipes altogether. They are incredibly convenient and useful for various tasks, especially when cleaning up after a messy diaper change or wiping off makeup. However, disposal is a different matter. Instead of flushing wipes down the toilet, consider throwing them in a trash can or designated receptacle for disposable items. While it's fairly easy to let professional technicians perform drain snaking or hydro jetting to address any household clogs, preventing drain issues in the first place is still a better route.
Proactive measures can save you from costly and unpleasant plumbing problems. Still, when clogs happen, C. Lee Services is the local drain cleaning company you can turn to for reliable and efficient solutions. Our experienced professionals utilize industry-leading techniques to provide top-notch service for all your drain-related needs. Call us today or fill out our online form to learn more.