Understanding Flushable Wipes: Truth Behind the Claims and Why Plumbers Recommend Against Them
It's crucial for homeowners and businesses to understand the difference between flushable and non-flushable wipes to avoid potential plumbing issues. This article sheds light on the common misconceptions, the claims made by manufacturers, and why plumbers strongly advise against using flushable wipes.
Types of Wipes: Flushable vs. Non-Flushable
There are two primary types of wipes: flushable and non-flushable. While many consumers might believe that flushable wipes can be safely disposed of in the toilet, the reality is quite different. Flushable wipes, as advertised by manufacturers, are designed to quickly disintegrate in the water when flushed. However, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has warned that these wipes do not break down as easily as toilet paper, even if they claim to be flushable.
Why Non-Flushable Wipes Are Called ‘Flushable’
The claim of 'flushable' is based on the immediate disappearance of the wipes in the toilet water. Nonetheless, the materials used to make these wipes do not disintegrate quickly enough to avoid clogging the plumbing system. This is why many plumbers advise against using flushable wipes, even though there is a broad approval process for these products by plumbing companies.
The Approval Process
Many companies market their flushable wipes to plumbers to ensure they pass a basic visual test. Although these wipes may not clog the toilet during this test, they still pose a risk when flushed through the main sewer system. Essentially, the products are approved for use in toilets, but not for disposal in the larger sewage network, as they will likely cause blockages when flushed further downstream.
The Role of Advertisers and Consumers
It's common for advertisers to make claims that might not be entirely true to boost sales. In the case of flushable wipes, the manufacturers might have sought the approval from one willing plumber who could corroborate the claims. However, these claims should be taken with a grain of salt. It's ultimately up to the consumer to verify the facts and avoid potential issues with their plumbing.
Why Plumbers Recommend Non-Flushable Wipes
Plumbers often recommend non-flushable wipes, specifically baby wipes or wet wipes, because they are specifically designed to be used as a cleaning product and not for disposal in the toilet. These wipes are engineered to break down more easily and are less likely to cause clogs in the plumbing system. The term 'flushable' is misleading in this context, as it only guarantees the wipes will go down the toilet but not necessarily remain safe for the larger sewer network.
Internal Condition of Pipes
The internal condition of pipes is a critical factor. Even if a pipe appears to be wide enough, it might have a much smaller diameter due to built-up debris. A flushable wipe could easily cause a blockage in any narrowed areas of the pipeline, exacerbating the risk of a clog.
Conclusion
To avoid potential plumbing issues, it's important to use non-flushable wipes, such as baby wipes or wet wipes, and dispose of them in the trash instead of the toilet. Homeowners and businesses can save themselves the hassle and cost of expensive plumbing repairs by being mindful of the types of wipes they use and properly disposing of them.