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October 25, 2024We’ve all seen the packaging – flushable wipes that promise convenience and a clean finish. But are flushable wipes actually flushable?
The idea of just tossing them down the toilet sounds ideal, but many people are starting to question whether it’s truly safe for their plumbing.
Well, if you’ve ever had a toilet that doesn’t flush properly after using one of these wipes, know you are not alone! In the following article, let’s look at the facts and discover whether these so-called flushable wipes are really as harmless as they claim.
Spoiler alert: if you are thinking about toilet repair services due to a blockage, the suspected culprit may just be flushable wipes!
What are Flushable Wipes?
Let’s now begin to talk about what these flushable toilet wipes are: tougher, moist, and advertised for its easy disposal down the toilet compared to traditional toilet paper.
But here’s something to note that so-called flushable wipes are manufactured from a combination of synthetic fibres and biodegradable materials. Even though they are being referred to as “flushable,” the materials they are made of do not break down as easily as toilet paper does.
Furthermore, that;s not the case in reality – toilets can’t really handle what these wipes are capable of. Your toilet is counting on quick disintegration of materials so as not to block it; while the packaging might say they are safe to flush, they often sit in your pipes much longer than you’d expect.
So, while these wipes are pretty convenient, they aren’t always as friendly to your plumbing as you might think. Stick around to see if you should keep using them or if there’s a better solution out there!
Are Flushable Wipes Really Flushable?
Now, onto the big question: are flushable wipes really flushable?
And the answer may surprise you – it’s not quite as simple as you’d want it to be. Sure, you can technically put flushable wipes down the toilet, but they don’t degrade like regular old toilet paper. As a matter of fact, they often can cause more problems.
When flushed, you may not see those wipes again, but they actually remain very much present, lurking in your plumbing.
Unlike toilet paper – which breaks down quickly when exposed to water – flushable wipes are made of thicker material and hence do not degrade. In other words, they remain more solid than typical toilet paper.
Here’s what can occur when you flush these wipes:
- Clogged Pipes. Wipes can build up in your plumbing over time and most end up clumping in the piping with other debris, such as hair and soap residue. These buildups create blockages that are often hard to clear. What was once a simple problem multiplies and increases into a highly nightmarish plumbing issue!
- Blocked Drains. These wipes can easily get caught on bends and turns in your plumbing. They may create a blockage in the pipes, causing slow drainage and even backup in the sinks or showers.
- Sewage Backup. This may be the worst of worst-case scenarios. If enough wipes build up in your plumbing, they can block the main drain line. That blockage can cause raw sewage to back up into your home — a situation nobody wants to experience., indeed!
In fact, some people try to overcome these clogs by pouring boiling water to empty the toilet bowl, but that is usually temporary. This is simply because the wipes are the root of the problem.
But that’s not all! A few more things you should be considering are as follows:
- Environmental Impact. Most of the wastewater treatment plants are not designed to handle such non-biodegradable waste, which is a financial expense and ecological concern. When the wipes do make it to the treatment plants, they could clog the machinery and lead to more complications within the process of getting rid of the waste
- Septic System Damage. The frustration with wipes is even worse for those who have a septic system in the house. Septic systems are designed to break down organic waste and toilet paper; however, flushable wipes disturb this process. They clog the system and result in costly repairs or even complete system replacement.
So, can you flush flushable wipes?
The answer is a cautious no – in that yes, you can, but doing so will probably bring a host of plumbing problems. If you truly value the health of your plumbing system and, of course, the environment, it’s best to find an alternative method for disposal.
4 Alternatives to the Flushable Wipes
Now that we have addressed whether or not flushable wipes are actually flushable, let’s move on to the better options available for your cleaning needs.
Fortunately, there are many varieties that won’t put your plumbing or the environment through a wringer.
Let’s dive into the effective alternatives that will keep both your bathroom fresh and your plumbing safe. So, next time you think of reaching for that flushable wipe, consider these options!
1. Wet Washcloths
One of the easiest options out there is to use a wet washcloth. Just wet a soft cloth and hang it in your bathroom. Here’s why that’s such a great option:
- Reusable. Use, wash, reuse and repeat! This is why they are more environmentally friendly when compared to disposable wipes.
- Gentle on Skin. A washcloth is a lot more gentle on the skin than a disposable wipe, particularly when it comes to more sensitive areas.
- Effective Cleaning. A wet washcloth is effectively able to clean up, taking any residue with it, using just a bit of soap.
2. Bidets
Those who want to have an even more luxurious and efficient cleaner would consider getting a bidet installed. Here’s what makes them great:
- Thorough Clean. Bidets offer a more thorough cleaning, without needing wipes, to leave you fresh and clean.
- Water-Efficient. Most modern bidets are designed for minimal water quantity while still providing a refreshing clean.
- Less Waste. By utilising a bidet, you will be reducing your consumption or use of toilet paper and wipes, hence giving your plumbing a break, besides being eco-friendly.
3. Biodegradable Wipes
If you prefer the convenience of a wipe, opt for biodegradable ones.
- Eco-Friendly. Biodegradable wipes are supposed to break down in the environment and not clog up your pipes.
- Safe for Your Skin. Biodegradable wipes are made from natural ingredients that most of the time make them safer for your skin and the planet.
Note that you should always read the labels to ensure they are truly biodegradable and safe to flush, as not all products marketed as flushable are equal.
4. Toilet Paper
Of course, classic would be good old toilet paper. Here’s why it remains a staple:
- Designed for Flushing. Toilet paper is specifically designed to break down in water, reducing the risk of clogs.
- Widely Available. It’s easy to find and comes in a variety of styles and strengths to suit your taste.
- Cost-Effective. Toilet paper is generally cheaper than most of the alternatives that are given as options over the wipes, hence cost-effective.
Moreover, one positive way to avoid using flushable wipes is by informing all the members of your home about the effects brought about by these products on plumbing systems.
Put a reminder near the toilet to remind all to throw away wipes and all non-flushables into the trash. Then, demonstrate to family members alternatives that you use, since this will make it easier for them to adopt new habits as well.
By switching to these alternatives, you will not only be able to keep your plumbing system in the best condition but also help clean up the environment.
So, Are Wet Wipes Flushable?
The short answer to “Are wet wipes flushable?” is no.
While they may disappear from sight after one flushes, the problems they cause not only in your plumbing system but also in the environment are not something worth the convenience.
They are better off in the trash or replaced with more eco-friendly alternatives. If you have flushed them already and the clogs are what you are experiencing, then this may be a good time to seek professional intervention.
And if you do happen to have problems with slow drain, blockages, or other issues where the toilet will not flush correctly, give your local plumbers at Neighbourhood Plumbing Melbourne a call today! With our professional plumbers on the job, they can fix the problems you may have due to flushable wipes or any other plumbing mishap.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation today for more information!
About the Author
From unclogging the toughest drains to repairing leaking toilets, Ricky is a seasoned plumber who has brought his craftmanship to homes across Melbourne. He is passionate about sharing plumbing tips just as much as he is about fixing your plumbing issues. So, when your taps or pipes begin leaking, you know who to call.
