Flushable Wipes: Not so Flushable

In today’s times toilet paper is more precious than ever. I am sure we can all recall just a few weeks back when store shelves were empty of this important commodity that we all took for granted. And as toilet paper becomes scarcer, more people have turned to flushable wipes as an alternative. But this may not be for the best. As Richmond’s property management experts we have seen our fair share of plumbing emergencies and you may be shocked to hear they are mostly caused by items advertised as flushable. 

But why?

Toilet paper is specifically designed to disintegrate in our pipes and septic systems whereas wipes are not. Many of the most popular brands are typically made with things like plastic, polyester, or polypropylene that will not disintegrate and don’t break down. This means that if a wipe is caught in a pipe it won’t get washed out with the next flush. Instead, the next item to travel down the line gets stuck behind the wipe and causes a clog. This could lead to waste water and sewage backing up in all your plumbing fixtures and you stuck with a plumbing bill for hundreds of dollars to clear the line. 

Now what?

You may now be wondering, “What’s the easiest way for me to avoid these costly clogs?” and that’s easy. Don’t use flushable wipes. Toilet paper isn’t just better for your plumbing but can be better for your body as well. While wet wipes may get your bottom clean as a whistle, they can actually cause extra irritation down there. However, if you must use them in your home we strongly advise that you dispose of them in a sanitary way, like a special garbage can used for baby diapers or feminine products, until trash day.