Myth Busting: Are Flushable Wipes Really Flushable?

If you’re a homeowner hoping to prevent plumbing disasters, you might be wondering, are flushable wipes really flushable?

Many people have asked this question, and the answer is not always clear. If companies advertise wipes as flushable, many homeowners take the label at face value and assume it’s safe for their plumbing. In this blog post, we will explore the topic of flushable wipes and see if they are really as harmless as they seem.

What Are Flushable Wipes?

Flushable wipes are a type of wet wipe designed to be disposed of in the toilet. They are made biodegradable and should break down quickly once they hit the water. However, many people have found that this is not always the case.

Not all baby wipes and flushable wipes are created equal. The wipes that are not labeled biodegradable should never be disposed of in the toilet and may take 100 years to decompose—which is horrible for the environment.

Flushable Wipes vs. Toilet Paper

Households may treat flushable wipes and toilet paper as interchangeable, but this is not the case. Toilet paper is made from paper and water, making it an easy substance to break down once it’s submerged in liquid.

On the other hand, manufacturers make flushable wipes from a mixture of synthetic materials, like plastic or polyester. These blends can vary, but they often yield a hazardous result: clogged or damaged pipes.

Unfortunately, companies are at liberty to market flushable wipes as “toilet safe,” but it still doesn’t mean you should throw them into your plumbing. In fact, most professionals would tell you to dispose of any and all flushable wipes in the garbage and only throw toilet paper in the toilet. This simple practice can save your plumbing and your pocket.

Are Flushable Wipes Really Flushable: What Experts Are Saying

We know it can be confusing not to trust a label that markets a product as flushable, but it’s best to ignore the allure of a “flushable” wipe. A study conducted by Ryerson University in Canada proved how important it is to throw wipes in the trash.

Out of 101 wipes, 23 were hailed as flushable and thrown into the toilet to test how well they flushed. Not one of the wipes fell apart as described and all posed a clogging risk. Wipes present an even greater threat to the plumbing when they combine with grease or other thick materials in the pipes. According to experts, they belong in the trash!

Harmful for the Environment

Because most wipe brands use plastics in their blend, they are also harmful to the environment. To best protect your plumbing and the earth, buy eco-friendly wipe brands and make sure to throw them in the trash, not the toilet.

Trust the Experts: Don’t Trust the Label

Flushable wipes—and all types of wipes—are not safe for your plumbing. If you have a clog, contact Cornel’s Plumbing Heating & Air Conditioning immediately for assistance.