Are Flushable Wipes Really Flushable?

Are Flushable Wipes Really Flushable?

Who doesn’t love a flushable wipe? They provide a more refreshing and cleaner sensation than toilet paper. Flushable wipes are just like regular disposable wipes, except they claim to be septic system “safe” and safe to flush.

What most people don’t realize is that flushable wipes are not made for plumbing because they don’t disintegrate. Wipes are made from a type of paper pulp that is held together with non-degradable materials, therefore they stay intact. As for toilet paper, when it gets wet it falls apart quickly. Toilet paper is made to dissolve, so it’s made so that it doesn’t clog the drain.

Are Flushable Wipes Septic Safe?

If you have a septic system instead of a city sewer system you may want to know how flushable wipes will affect your septic tank. Flushable wipes are not good for the sewer system or your septic system. Non-dissolvable wipes will build up in the part of the septic tank where solids collect, potentially clogging your pipes and leading to more frequent septic pumping. This can increase your plumbing cost as well because flushable wipes clog pipes.

Manufacturers like to tell a different story to keep selling their products, but the experts at Eastern Plumbing have the experience to know that is not the case. If you’ve been using flushable wipes, you could definitely experience a clogged toilet as a result.

Here’s a guide on how to unclog a toilet clogged with flushable wipes:

• Start with a plunger. Using a plunger can help loosen a clog and force the wipes down through the sewer pipe.
• Try a toilet snake. You can use the toilet snake to grab the wipes blocking the pipe and pull them back up through the toilet, then dispose of them in the trash can.
• Call the professionals at Eastern Plumbing. Sometimes the only way to unclog your toilet, is to call a licensed plumber.

Don’t Ever Flush Wipes Down the Toilet

Most homeowners don’t realize how bad flushable wipes are for their plumbing because they don’t break down like toilet paper. This can cause serious damage to your plumbing and/or septic system leading to expensive repairs. You should avoid flushing anything down the toilet, other than toilet paper, even if it’s marked as flushable.

If you and your family have been using flushable wipes and experience clogged pipes, drains or toilets, don’t panic, Eastern Plumbing can help! Give us a call today at 252-758-7579.