Although many people think their toilet can double as a trash can, this plumbing fixture is more sensitive than you may realize. To protect it and avoid messy clogs, review some of the items you might have flushed down the toilet before and learn why you should avoid doing it in the future.
What Items Are Unflushable?
1. Wet Wipes
Many baby and adult wipes say they’re flushable, but this claim is false. These items don’t break down like toilet paper, so they can contribute to plumbing clogs. Keep a wastebasket with a lid next to your toilet and throw the wipes in there instead.
2. Tissues
It might not seem like there’s a significant difference between tissues and toilet paper, but tissues won’t disintegrate in water. If you keep a box next to the toilet, tell your children to use toilet paper when using the bathroom. If you blow your nose in this room, throw the tissues in the trash can.
3. Medications
Dumping old medications down the toilet can contaminate the water supply. If you can, bring used medications to a pharmacy, where they can dispose of them properly. If this isn’t an option, put them in a sealed plastic bag and throw them away with your trash.
4. Hair
Even though hair is organic matter, it can wreak havoc on your plumbing if you flush it. Strands can come together to form massive blockages, and you’ll need to call a plumber to sort out the problem. Keep extra hair away from the open toilet and throw strands away when you clean out your brush.
5. Gum
Since gum is so sticky, it can adhere to your pipes, causing clogs that block the flow of wastewater out of your home. Instead of flushing gum, throw it in the garbage can. You should also avoid swallowing gum while you’re chewing it, as this will cause it to end up in the pipes as well.
If you’re dealing with a plumbing clog, call the experts at John Lockwood Plumbing in Ontario, NY. This family-owned business has been serving the community for over 40 years, and it can help with all sorts of plumbing issues. Their 24-person team is ready to help whenever you need it. Visit their website to learn more about what they can do, and call (585) 265-0736 to schedule a service or request an estimate for your job today.
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