A toddler’s curiosity with your toilet’s ability to flush seemingly anything can typically mean disaster for your plumbing. Little ones aren’t always the culprit for toilet repairs, though. Here are a few common household items that should never land in your toilet bowl. 

Items That Can Mean Major Toilet Repairs

1. Personal Hygiene Products

Products like “flushable” wipes, facial tissue, or tampons should never go into your toilet bowl. Since tampons are made to hold liquid, they will expand as they absorb water in your pipes until they form a stubborn clog. Flushable wipes and facial tissue similarly do not break down in water like you think they will, so they frequently cause problems. Instead of plugging your pipes, throw these products in the trash to avoid toilet repairs.

2. Dental Floss

The dainty nature of floss may seem plumbing friendly. Once in your plumbing, though, it will twist around other debris and waste, creating a tangled mess that’s similar to a ball of yarn. In some cases, it can even act as a fishing net, gathering other pieces and burning out your septic system’s motor. To prevent the need for plumbing or toilet repairs, take the extra few seconds to deposit used floss in the garbage.

3. Cat Litter

Although your pet does their business in the litter box, that doesn’t mean it’s suited for the same waste management system as yours. When flushed down the toilet, the litter will absorb water, clumping together and sticking to the sides of the pipes. This will inhibit water flow, straining your toilet and potentially leading to backflow and toilet repairs. Instead of taking the risk, dispose of your cat’s litter in your exterior garbage can.

With a mascot capable of clearing the trees of North Dakota in one fell swoop, it’s no surprise that clearing toilet clogs is no problem for Paul Bunyan Plumbing. This giant in plumbing in Twin Cities, MN, will not only stop toilet issues in their tracks but also prevent them from continuing. When disaster strikes, their 24-hour emergency services won’t keep you waiting. For more information about their full range of plumbing services, give them a call today at (612) 977-3053 or visit their website.