Toilets are a lifesaver when it comes to doing your business. It’s easy to take for granted how simple it is to go, flush and continue on with your day. However, when toilets aren’t functioning properly, they can be pretty grotesque to deal with – not to mention costly.
A major cause of toilet trouble is clogs caused by non-flushable items. At Jim’s Plumbing Now, we have a lot of experience dealing with clogged pipes, so we know what you can flush and what you should throw away instead.
What Items Aren’t Flushable?
There are many items that you may be flushing down the toilet that you really should just throw away. Here are some of the most common items:
- Baby/flushable wipes
- Menstrual products (tampons, pads, etc.)
- Cotton products (cotton rounds, cotton swabs, etc.)
- Cat litter
- Food
- Bandages/gauze
- Medication
- Pet fish
- Hair
- Cigarette butts
- Grease
- Condoms
- Diapers
- Paper towels/tissues
- Gum
- Bleach
While some of these things may be labeled as flushable (i.e. wipes, cat litter), they really aren’t. These products don’t break down in your pipes and can cause major clogs. Many times, the only way to clear these clogs is to hire a professional plumber to insert a snake into your pipe, which can be costly and inconvenient. Even if these items don’t end up causing damage to your toilet and pipes, items like cigarette butts and medication are toxic to the environment and can harm animals and ecosystems.
You may be wondering why bleach isn’t flushable since so many people use bleach to clean their toilets. However, bleach is actually very corrosive and can cause damage to the lining of your pipes, leading to leaks and bursts. To avoid damage and extra costs, use a milder cleaner next time you clean your bathroom.
What Can I Flush?
Next time you’re sitting on the john, remember that there are only a few things that are considered flushable waste: your business and toilet paper. These are the only things that will break down in the toilet and prevent a clog. This being said, it’s important to avoid using a lot of toilet paper because this can lead to a clog. Fortunately, these clogs can usually be fixed with a plunger.
How Do I Deal With A Toilet Clog?
It’s very frustrating to have a clogged toilet. There are a few signs to watch for that will let you know that it’s time to call the plumber:
- The water doesn’t flush or builds up in the bowl
- The water overflows out of the toilet bowl
- Water gurgles in your shower or bathtub drain when you flush
- Fluid is leaking out of the sewage drain outside your home
If you notice any of these things happening, you might have a clogged toilet pipe. The best thing you can do to resolve the issue is to contact a professional plumbing team. At Jim’s Plumbing Now, we have unclogged countless pipes. We have the professional experience you need to get your bathroom functioning once again. Call now to schedule an appointment today!
