Ensuring we keep both our drains and the sewer system free from clogs is important. In this article, we look into the issue of toilet wipes and how best to dispose of them.
Flushable wipes are a popular choice for many people, as they are often considered more hygienic and gentler on the skin than toilet paper. However, there is a growing body of evidence that would suggest that flushable wipes are not actually flushable, and can, in fact, cause serious problems for your plumbing system.
Avoid clogging your toilet and plumbing system by following our handy advice
What are flushable wipes?
Flushable wipes are typically made from synthetic materials, such as polyester or polypropylene. These materials are designed to be strong and absorbent, making them ideal for cleaning delicate skin. However, this also means they are very slow to break down in water and can easily clog your pipes.
Why are flushable wipes bad for your plumbing?
When flushable wipes are flushed down the toilet, they don’t break down as quickly as toilet paper. They can easily begin to cause issues, which could mean needing to unblock your toilet. In some cases, flushable wipes can even build up in your pipes and create a blockage that requires professional removal.
Flushable wipes may not be as flushable as they seem
What can you do instead of using flushable wipes?
If you are looking for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to flushable wipes, there are a few options available to you. You can simply use toilet paper that is made from recycled materials or even consider installing a bidet, which could help cut down on the amount of paper you need to flush. If you use flushable wipes for cleaning around the toilet itself, why not check out our handy guide, showing you how to make eco-friendly reusable bathroom wipes?
Here are some of our own top tips for keeping your pipes clear:
- Only flush toilet paper and human waste down the toilet
- Throw away all other waste, such as sanitary products, paper towels and cooking grease, into a rubbish bin
- Use a plunger to clear any small clogs that do occur
- Have your pipes professionally cleaned every few years
By following these tips, you can help to keep your pipes clear and prevent costly repairs.
Keep your toilet and plumbing in great condition by following this simple advice
Conclusion
Flushable wipes may seem like a convenient option, but they are not worth the risk of clogging your pipes. If you are looking for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative, there are a number of better options available to you.
Handy bathroom advice
If you’re looking to keep your bathroom (and plumbing!) in tip-top condition, look no further than all the handy bathroom advice right here at Victoria Plum.
If you’re considering alternative options to flushable wipes, we’ll explain how bidets are making a comeback in UK bathrooms. For more toilet-specific information, find out how best to clean a toilet and discover how a toilet flush actually works. Ever wondered where toilet waste goes or how a toilet drain works? We’ll answer those questions too!
Finally, if you’re looking to keep your bathroom in mint condition, why not follow our toilet cleaning and bath cleaning guides, complete with easy-to-follow instructions.
