It’s an all too familiar occurrence for many of us: you flush the toilet, and it won’t go down. You try to figure out what could be clogging it up and remember putting something in there a few days ago that never should have been placed in the loo. Does this sound like an issue you may face?
If so, then read on as we look at ten household objects that can easily cause your toilet to become blocked if they aren’t disposed of properly.
1. Paper Towels – These can break down quickly and may not clear through the pipes.
Paper towels may be a household staple, but these absorbent sheets can cause quite a headache when it comes to plumbing.
Unlike toilet paper, paper towels are not designed to break down quickly and can easily clog your pipes. While it may seem convenient to toss used paper towels down the toilet, it can cause significant damage to your plumbing system.
If you’re faced with a clogged drain, it’s best to avoid using paper towels altogether. Instead, opt for alternative cleaning methods to ensure your pipes stay clear and avoid unnecessary plumbing repairs.
2. Feminine Products – tampons or pads should not be flushed, as they can clog the toilet
Every woman knows the importance of having good hygiene, especially during their menstrual cycle. However, it’s not just enough to use the right type of tampon or pad. Disposing of these feminine products the right way is just as crucial.
Many women are not aware that flushing tampons or pads down the toilet can lead to clogging, which can cause major plumbing problems and a lot of money in repairs. Let’s avoid these unnecessary expenses and do our part in keeping our toilets clean and clear.
3. Hair – from brushing or showering, hair should be wiped up and thrown in the trash
Hair is an essential part of our appearance, and we spend a lot of time taking care of it. However, one thing we often overlook is how we dispose of it. Whether we’re brushing our hair or cleaning ourselves in the shower, we need to make sure we don’t leave strands behind.
It’s common to discard them in the toilet, but this can cause blockages and clog up pipes. Instead, it’s important to make a habit of wiping up any stray hairs and disposing of them properly by throwing them in the trash.
4. Cotton Swabs/Q-Tips – These can accumulate and cause a blockage in your toilet pipe
Cotton swabs or Q-tips are a common household item that is used for a variety of purposes. From cleaning ears to applying makeup, these tiny sticks come in handy in many ways.
However, what most people don’t realize is that these swabs can cause a significant problem if they are flushed down the toilet. Cotton swabs don’t dissolve, and they can quickly accumulate in your pipes and cause blockages. It can lead to costly repairs and unpleasant situations. To avoid this problem, it’s best to dispose of your Q-tips in the trash can instead of flushing them down the toilet.
5. Flushable Wipes – even though some wipes are labeled as “flushable”, they don’t always break down like regular toilet paper
Flushable wipes have become increasingly popular as a convenient alternative to traditional toilet paper. However, many wipes that are labeled as “flushable” don’t dissolve as easily as regular toilet paper, leading to potential plumbing problems.
It’s important to read labels carefully and dispose of wipes properly to prevent clogs and backups in your sewage system. While handy for a quick clean-up, it’s best to remember that not all flushable wipes are created equal and to use them with caution.
6. Diapers – These should never be flushed, as they will cause major clogs in your plumbing system
When it comes to diaper disposal, it’s important to remember that flushing is not an option. Although it may seem like a convenient solution, it can ultimately lead to disastrous consequences.
Diapers have a way of wreaking havoc on our plumbing systems, causing major blockages and clogs that can be costly and time-consuming to fix. Instead, always dispose of diapers in the designated trash bin.
7. Dental Floss – It doesn’t degrade and can entwine with other objects to create blockages
Dental floss may seem like a minor offender when it comes to items that shouldn’t be flushed, but its impact on your plumbing can be significant. Dental floss does not degrade or dissolve, meaning it can easily get caught up in your pipes and create blockages. Moreover, floss can wrap around other items and create larger obstructions, leading to severe plumbing issues. Always dispose of dental floss in a trash can to keep your plumbing in good health.
8. Cooking Grease – It solidifies in the pipes and forms a blockage
Cooking grease is another common miscreant that has no place in your toilet bowl. When warm, grease can seem harmless and easy to dispose of down drains or toilets. However, as it cools, it solidifies, forming a thick, sticky substance that adheres to the insides of your pipes and causes blockages. The best way to dispose of cooking grease is to let it cool and solidify, then scrape it into a sealable container and throw it in the trash.
9. Medication – It contaminates waterways and harms aquatic life
Medication and pharmaceuticals should never be flushed down the toilet as they contribute to water pollution. These substances can contaminate waterways and harm aquatic life, as treatment plants are not equipped to filter out all pharmaceutical substances.
Instead of flushing old or unused medication, look for local take-back programs or special disposal procedures to ensure safe and responsible disposal.
10. Cigarette Butts – These contain toxins that can contaminate waterways
Many people don’t think twice about flushing cigarette butts down the toilet. However, cigarette butts can cause plumbing issues and environmental harm. They don’t break down easily and can contribute to blockages. To get rid of blockages, you may need to call a professional toilet repair plumber which could be a big hole for the pocket. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid flushing cigarettes in toilets.
Furthermore, cigarettes contain toxins that can contaminate waterways and harm aquatic life. Always dispose of cigarette butts in a suitable ashtray or waste bin to keep your plumbing clear and protect the environment.
About Us
If you are looking for a professional agency to help you install or replace your water heater in Florida’s Punta Gorda Region, Henry Plumbing is where you should call. We have been helping the residents of Punta Gorda since the 1970s.
Our services include water testing, plumbing, water heater repairs, installation, and more. We also offer emergency plumbing services to our customers. You can contact us at (941) 661-7398 or request an appointment here.