Are Flushable Wipes Harming Your Plumbing?

In this brief article brought to you by your trusted plumbing company, Service Hero, we shed light on the deceptive labeling of flushable wipes, the serious risks they pose to plumbing systems, and the best alternatives for keeping your pipes clear.

The Deceptive Naming of Flushable Wipes

The term "flushable" is a marketing trick rather than an assurance of a product’s safety for your plumbing.

Unlike toilet paper that is designed to break down rapidly in water, most wipes are made from nonwoven materials containing synthetic fibers that don’t disintegrate as quickly as traditional toilet paper.While these wipes may technically fit down your toilet’s drain, they don’t break apart in the same way.

Sure enough, municipal wastewater treatment facilities have long sounded the alarm about the damage caused by flushable wipes. In many cities, sewer blockages and overflows have been traced back to these stubborn materials.

The Threat to Your Plumbing System

It’s not just the public sewer system that’s at risk. Flushable wipes can wreak havoc on your residential or commercial plumbing system as well. While they may start as a minor inconvenience, issues caused by flushable wipes can quickly snowball into a full-blown plumbing disaster. Consider:

• Clogs and Blockages: Flushable wipes remain intact for an extended period. As they move through your pipes, they can snag on rough surfaces or combine with grease, hair, and other debris to create stubborn blockages.
• Damage to Septic Systems:If your home relies on a septic system, these wipes pose an even greater risk. They do not break down efficiently and can accumulate in your tank.

The risk isn’t just about clogged pipes or overloaded septic systems; it’s about the potential costs associated with repairs and replacements. No one wants to deal with an emergency plumber visit. Remember, prevention is always more affordable than repair.

What Are the Best Alternatives?

If flushable wipes are a plumbing hazard, then what should you use instead? Fortunately, there are several alternatives that provide the same level of hygiene and convenience without the risk of blockages. Consider:

• Bidets and Attachments: Bidets are an excellent alternative for those looking for extra hygiene. Modern bidet attachments are affordable, easy to install, and provide a refreshingcleaning without waste.
• Compostable Wipes: If you prefer wipes, then look for compostable versions that break down more easily. Just be sure to dispose of them in the trash rather than flushing them.
• Wet Toilet Paper: Some brands now offer moist toilet paper that is engineered to be flushable and break down more effectively than traditional wipes.

By switching to one of these alternatives, you can maintain hygiene without compromising your plumbing system.

Keep Your Drains Clean with Routine Maintenance

Even if you avoid using flushable wipes, there are other household debris that can still build up in your pipes over time. Regular drain cleaning is essential to keeping your plumbing system flowing seamlessly.

At Service Hero, we employ hydro jetting drain cleaning to thoroughly scour away soap scum, grease, hair, and small debris from the drains. The pressurized water is capable of breaking through stubborn blockages consisting of even dried concrete and tree roots.

Scheduling a professional drain cleaning once a year or year-and-a-half is a proactive way to keep things running smoothly. Contact Service Hero to learn more, schedule an appointment, or request urgent assistance today.