What not to flush
Many consumer products, including those marked “disposable” or “flushable,” can cause problems within the sewer system. These products do not break down properly and can block sewer lines. They also do not flow easily through sewer pump stations. Blockages can result in sewer backups, as well as costly repairs and cleaning.
What’s flushable? Only human waste and toilet paper. Items that should not be flushed include:
- Diapers, baby wipes, nursing pads
- Facial wipes and towelettes
- Cigarette butts
- Dental floss and teeth whitening strips
- Paper towels and napkins
- Cotton balls and swabs
- Bandages and bandage wrappers
- Syringes and needles
- Gum
- Feminine products/condoms
- Rags and other cloth items
- Disinfectant wipes, dusting pads, and cleaning wipes of any kind
- Kitty litter and pet waste
- Bags and wrappers
- Plastics of any kind
- Hair, hair ties, and rubber bands
- Paint and solvents
- Nail polish and polish remover
- Flammable or other toxic chemicals
- Grease, oil, or fats
- Medications
- Toilet bowl scrub pads
- Animals: fish, snakes, hamsters, mice, etc.