Are Flushable Wipes Really Flushable?

If you're like most people, you probably don't give a second thought to what those little wet wipes are made of as you drop them into the toilet and flush.

But maybe you should: These once-disposable cloths used for cleaning babies and wiping down counters can now be found in many restrooms around town — even though they do not break down in water the way traditional toilet paper does.

As more and more cities update their aging sewer systems, transportation officials find themselves under pressure to keep pace with surging populations and an ever-growing amount of stuff that gets flushed down toilets. That has meant overhauling old pipes and building new ones to handle waste — along with all the "disposable" things we send down drains every day.

What is the biggest risk of flushing wipes?

Why Shouldn't I Flush Wipes Down the Toilet?

Wipes may be advertised as flushable, but that doesn't mean they should be flushed. Even if the label says "flushable," it's best not to put them down the drain. Why? For starters, even if you're flushing just one wipe at a time, you could wind up with clogged pipes or an expensive plumbing bill for professional cleaning.

Clogs aren't the only problem. As people become more aware of how much human waste is headed to water treatment facilities every day, some communities are implementing recycling programs so new products like single-use wet wipes can easily be turned into compost or biogas (a renewable energy source made by fermenting organic material, such as food waste or manure, and burning it for heat and power).

Wet wipes that are labelled 'flushable' may not break down in the same way as toilet paper and can cause serious problems in your home's plumbing and septic systems, according to wastewater specialists.

As an alternative to disposable wet wipes, some suggest using baby wipes specifically designed for sensitive skin. If you feel you must use flushable wipes for adults, look for those made with 100% cellulose (a natural biodegradable fiber found in plants), which will break down more easily than other fibers.

Are any wipes actually safe to flush?

There are a few brands of wipes that are specifically designed to be flushed down the toilet. These are marketed as "sewer-safe" or "septic-safe." However, it's still a good idea to check the label before you flush any wipes, just to be sure.

What should I do if I've Flushed Wipes?

If you have flushed wet wipes and they have caused a blockage in your home, the best thing to do is to call a qualified plumber. Do not try to clear the blockage yourself as this could result in serious injury. Please call the professionals at Lutz Plumbing right away for any concerns. Call now !