Since we’re so used to having them in our lives, it’s easy to take our toilets for granted. Every day, we use them to dispose of waste in an easy and sanitary fashion. However, not all waste should go down the toilet.

On a regular basis, people flush many things down the toilet without even realizing the damage those items are causing to septic systems and pipes. Bigfoot Pumping & Thawing, North Pole, AK’s top choice for septic tank maintenance, is here to set the record straight about what items you should add to your “no flush” list to avoid a clogged toilet or sewer contamination.

3 Items You Should Never Flush

1. Disposable Diapers

Yes, the diapers say “disposable” on the packaging, but that doesn’t mean you can dispose of them in the toilet. These diapers actually expand when exposed to water, becoming an instant blockage in your plumbing. Even if the diaper doesn’t lead to a clogged toilet, it will head into the sewer system where it will pile up with all the other insoluble materials.

2. Bathroom Wipes

A few years ago, bathroom wipes were the big trend at grocery stores. Although these moist towelettes may say on the packaging they’re “flushable,” they cause significant clogs in pipes and sewers. The wipes don’t break down like toilet paper does, so they build up in the pipes and sewers over time, requiring costly repairs.

3. Feminine Hygiene Products

Tampons, sanitary napkins, and other hygiene products should always go in the trash, not the toilet. Trying to flush a sanitary napkin is a good way to end up with a clogged toilet. Because these items cannot easily disintegrate in the septic tank or sewer, they get caught in the pipes and stay there. As more hygiene products move through the system over time, that blockage continues to grow until the sewage cannot flow at all.

In short, the best method for avoiding a clogged toilet is to stick with only flushing human waste and toilet paper. As tempted as you might be to use the toilet to get rid of facial tissues, kitchen grease, hair, diapers, or any other items that can’t easily disintegrate in water, do your part to avoid sewer or plumbing backup.

If you’re in need of toilet repair, give Bigfoot Pumping & Thawing a call at (907) 488-9855. The septic tank maintenance company will handle all of your sewer needs, from general plumbing to sewer line inspections. To learn more, visit their website or Facebook page.