The Truth About Flushable Wipes: A Costly and Messy Problem
Despite clever marketing claims, so-called “flushable” wipes are not truly flushable—at least not in the way toilet paper is. While they may go down your toilet, they do not break down properly and can cause serious blockages in sewer systems, leading to costly repairs and dangerous overflows.
How Do Flushable Wipes Cause Problems?
Unlike toilet paper, which is designed to disintegrate quickly in water, flushable wipes are made from strong, non-biodegradable materials that do not break down in sewer systems. When flushed, these wipes:
- Clog Household Plumbing – Wipes can get caught in pipes, leading to slow drains or full blockages that require costly plumbing repairs.
- Create Sewer Blockages – In public sewer lines, wipes combine with fats, oils, and grease (FOG), forming massive, rock-like “fatbergs” that block pipes and lead to raw sewage overflows.
- Overburden Treatment Plants – Wipes that make it through the sewer system require additional processing at wastewater treatment facilities, increasing operational costs and maintenance demands.
The Cost of Convenience
Sewer authorities across the country, including NBCJMA, have seen firsthand the damage caused by flushable wipes. Blockages and overflows can result in environmental hazards, health risks, and expensive emergency repairs—costs that ultimately get passed on to customers in the form of higher rates.
What Should You Do?
The solution is simple: Only flush toilet paper! Even if the package says “flushable,” dispose of wipes in the trash instead. This small change can help protect your plumbing, prevent sewer backups, and keep treatment costs low for the entire community.