Don’t Flush Feminine Products (Really!)

Listen up ladies! Here is a public service announcement for you: do not flush feminine products down the toilet. We know, we know, it says “flushable” right on the box. But this really isn’t the case. Tampons, pads, wipes, and other “flushable-friendly” products take a toll on your plumbing system and septic tank. Really! At Eastern Plumbing, over 25% of our calls about stoppage problems are caused by flushing tampons. Don’t wait until you have a costly plumbing problem before you start thinking twice about flushing them.

If you’re still skeptical that flushing feminine products could actually cause plumbing issues, here are a few more facts. Tampons grow up to 10 times their size once they absorb fluid, making them prime for clogging sewer drains – especially in older plumbing systems where roots may have started to grow through pipes.

Also, tampons NEVER break down. Unlike toilet paper (which, of course, is made to be flushed), if one gets caught on its way down, it isn’t going to dissolve. It will linger in your plumbing system allowing other debris to build up around it until you will ultimately be forced to call a plumber to clear the clog.

Even if your flushed feminine products make it out of your plumbing system, they are damaging to your septic system. Since they never break down, they will take up space in your tank, raising liquid levels and causing solids to build up blocking distribution tubes. Eventually, water may collect around the tank or back up into your home!

If you have been flushing these products down the toilet, make sure to stop immediately. Keep an eye out for any signs of a clog such as slow drains, sluggish flushing or gurgling pipes. If you notice any of these things, contact Eastern Plumbing!

Oh! And be sure to check out our blog “8 Things You Should Never Flush” to learn what other commonly flushed items shouldn’t be going down the toilet.