Is it okay to throw toilet paper in the toilet?

Proper Toilet Flushing: Avoid Costly Plumbing Repairs

Maintaining proper toilet flushing practices is essential for the longevity and efficiency of your plumbing system. To prevent clogs and costly repairs, only human waste and a small amount of accompanying toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet.

What Not to Flush

Unfortunately, many items commonly disposed of in toilets should not be flushed. These include:

• Disposable wipes: Even wipes labeled “flushable” can clog pipes over time due to their thicker and less degradable material.
• Paper towels: Designed to absorb moisture, paper towels expand and clog pipes.
• Feminine hygiene products: Tampons, pads, and applicators are not flushable and should be disposed of in a wastebasket.
• Dental floss: The stringy nature of dental floss can wrap around pipes and cause clogs.
• Condoms: These latex or polyurethane devices can clog pipes if flushed.
• Cat litter: It clumps and expands in water, causing severe clogs.

Consequences of Flushing Non-Flushables

Flushing non-flushable items can have disastrous consequences for your plumbing system, including:

• Clogged pipes: When non-degradable materials accumulate in pipes, they can block the flow of water and waste, leading to backups and overflows.
• Damaged pipes: Clogs can put excessive strain on pipes, causing them to crack or rupture.
• Costly repairs: Unclogging pipes or repairing damaged pipes can be an expensive undertaking.
• Environmental concerns: Non-biodegradable materials can end up in our waterways, polluting the environment.

Proper Flushing Techniques

To ensure proper toilet flushing, follow these guidelines:

• Use only toilet paper: Choose biodegradable toilet paper designed to dissolve quickly in water.
• Flush only necessary waste: Avoid flushing excess toilet paper or other non-flushable items.
• Apply a small amount of toilet paper: Use only the necessary amount of toilet paper to wipe yourself.
• Double flush if needed: If the waste does not go down with one flush, flush again.
• Report any issues immediately: If you notice any slow flushing or clogs, contact a plumber promptly.

By following these simple guidelines, you can maintain a healthy and functional plumbing system for years to come. Remember, only human waste and a small amount of toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet. Anything else is a potential plumbing hazard.