Today, we’re diving into the sometimes murky waters of what should and shouldn’t go down your toilet. Spoiler alert: it's more restrictive than you might think. So grab a cuppa and let’s get into it.
The “Do Not Flush” Naughty List
Your toilet is a marvel of modern plumbing, but it's not a rubbish bin. Here are some common items that should never make their way into the porcelain throne:
Condoms, frangers, rubbers, whatever you like to call them: They might be small (lets be modest), but condoms are made from materials that don’t break down easily in water. Toss them in the bin and give yourself a pat on your back.
Tampons, pads and other sanitary products: These items are designed to absorb moisture, which means they can expand and cause serious blockages. Dispose of them in a sanitary bin.
Kitty litter: I can't believe we have to say this, but even if the package says it’s flushable, avoid flushing kitty litter. It can clump and cause major clogs, plus it might contain bacteria harmful to water supplies.
Dog poo: Have you seen how hard dog poo turns? It's like a rock! Dog poo should never go in the toilet. Use a biodegradable bag and dispose of it in your bin or a designated dog waste bin.
Nappies: This one’s a no-brainer. Nappies are designed to absorb liquid and swell up, which can quickly lead to a blockage.
Wipes (even "flushable" ones): I would say these take the blockage trophy in modern maintenance plumbing. Any wipes labelled as "flushable" don’t break down as toilet paper does. They can get caught in your pipes and cause backups. I mean let's face it, your socks could be flushable but it doesn't mean it's good for the pipes!
Why these items shouldn't be flushed down the toilet
Flushing these items can lead to a range of unpleasant issues:
Clogged pipes: Your pipes are designed to handle human waste and toilet paper. Anything else can get stuck and cause clogs.
Sewage backups: Severe clogs can cause sewage to back up into your home – a nightmare scenario for any homeowner.
Environmental harm: Many of these items don’t break down easily and can contribute to pollution and harm wildlife.
Tips for proper disposal
Rubbish bins are your friends: Keep small bins in your bathroom for easy disposal of non-flushable items.
Read labels carefully: Just because something says it’s flushable, this doesn’t mean it is. When in doubt, throw it out (in the bin, that is).
Educate your household: Make sure everyone in your home knows what can and cannot be flushed. It’s a team effort!
When to call your local Koala-fied Plumber
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, things go awry. Here’s when to call in the pros:
Recurring clogs: If your toilet keeps clogging, it might indicate a bigger problem in your plumbing system.
Slow drains: If water is slow to drain, it could be a sign of a blockage further down the line.
Unpleasant odours: Persistent smells can indicate trapped waste or a more serious issue.
So, there you have it! Now that you know what you shouldn't flush down the toilet, you'll be able to help maintain a healthy plumbing system and a happier home. Remember, your toilet is for human waste and toilet paper – nothing more, nothing less.
And if you live in Sydney and ever find yourself in a plumbing pickle, don’t hesitate to give Koalafied Plumbing and Gas a call on 0434 614 760. We haven't seen it all but we're getting close!
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