Sewer: What Not to Flush

Think about it: There are many items that people may flush down their toilets that should not be flushed. The toilet was designed to take away human waste. It was not designed for people to toss their used or unused garbage into the toilet. Your toilet is not a garbage disposal! Flushing garbage can have disastrous effects such as:

  • Clogged toilets and pipes
  • Damage to wastewater collection and treatment facilities
  • Harmful to marine life
  • Cause toxic environmental issues

So what can you flush? Simply put, the waste that comes from your body -- urine, poop, and toilet paper -- should be the ONLY things that are flushed. Everything else should be disposed of in the garbage. Also, items should not be flushed down sink drains.
Here is a list of items that may ultimately clog drains or pipes.

Don't flush down toilets or drains the following:

  • Any wipe that says "flushable" (and those that are non-flushable): Although the package may state they are flushable, these wipes do not easily break down. Their cloth-like feel can cause clogged drains, clogged pumps, and effectively can increase operation and maintenance costs to wastewater treatment plants.
  • Facial tissue
  • Band Aids
  • Condoms
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Cosmetics
  • Rags
  • Diapers and diaper wipes
  • Unused drugs/pharmaceuticals/over-the-counter medications
  • Kitty litter or aquarium gravel (these will clump in the system)
  • Fats, oils or greases
  • Paint
  • Pesticides
  • Toxic chemicals
  • Motor oil
  • Coffee grounds and filters
  • Plastic
  • Metal toys
  • Clothing or cloth material
  • Disposable toilet brushes
  • Paper towels
  • Cotton swabs (Q-tips)
  • Cotton balls
  • Dental floss
  • Cigarette butts
  • Hair
  • Razors and blades*
  • Syringes and needles*

*These are dangerous!

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