FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Are flushable wipes really flushable?
Although flushable is part of their name, flushable wipes don't live up to their billing. They may initially flush down your toilet. But flushable wipes eventually clog your sewage pipes and the municipal sewer system, creating costly problems. Clogged sewage pipes caused by flushable wipes can cost you thousands of dollars. Unlike toilet paper, flushable wipes do not disintegrate in pipes and sewage systems. Synthetic materials like polyester and plastics give flushable wet wipes strength and versatility but remove their water solubility.
Are flushable wipes septic safe?
Flushable wipes and septic systems do not mix. As a result, plumbers urge you not to flush these products down your toilet because this action sends a solid mushy blob into your septic system. The resulting pile-up causes severe problems because septic systems depend on bacteria to break down the organic material within the septic tank. Since toilet paper and human waste are organic, bacteria efficiently feast on them. However, it can't consume flushable baby wipes' inorganic fibers that eventually feed into a solid layer of sludge at the bottom of your sewage tank. This toxic build-up requires frequent and costly pump-outs.
Are flushable wipes biodegradable?
Some flushable wipe brands offer biodegradable wipes composed of organic cotton, bamboo, or viscose. Nevertheless, these products do not break down enough to qualify for flushing down your toilet because of poor composting conditions in sewers. So, biodegradable wipes can combine with cooking fats, tampons, incontinence wipes, and other deposits to form a giant collection of muck called fatberg. This nearly impenetrable mass is the most common cause of sewage blockages, and the workers who deal with these massive clogs face highly hazardous conditions.
Can flushable wipes cause yeast infections?
According to a recent study by the University of Guelph researchers, women participants who used adult flushable wipes, incontinence wipes, and other hygiene washcloths ran 2.5 times higher risk of yeast infection. In addition, women who wash their vaginas with flushable wet wipes or baby wipes soaked in feminine cleansers can decrease the good bacteria needed to prevent yeast growth. Instead of using wipes, the medical profession recommends washing private parts with regular soap and water.
How do I unclog a toilet clogged with flushable wipes?
Since these products won't dissolve, flushable wipe toilet clogs can be the toughest to clear. There is also the possibility of the clog getting even worse. If your toilet backs up from this problem, you can try three effective remedies. First, you can try to free the clog in your toilet by using downward water pressure with a plunger. Just create a seal by placing the rubberized cup over the outlet hole and rapidly pushing the handle downward several times. When you see the water level in the toilet go down, you'll know you successfully unclogged your toilet.
If plunging doesn't work, you should try the most effective household tool for unclogging toilets stuffed with flushable baby wipes, a toilet auger, or a toilet snake. This device is a flexible metal coil with a head capable of connecting to and extracting debris in the sewage pipes. You can try to unclog your toilet with the auger by feeding it into your toilet's outlet hole until it reaches the mass of flushable wipes and other gunk. When you get to the core, spin the coil by turning the handle on the auger. This action encourages the head to snag onto the wipes. Then, pull the auger out of the toilet pipes with clog-causing wipes, hopefully in tow. If necessary, repeat this method.
If snaking doesn't work, it's time for a third remedy, calling a licensed plumber. Your failure to unclog your toilet means you have a bigger problem suited for a professional. After the clog is clear, the plumber will undoubtedly lecture you about not flushing baby flushable wipes, adult incontinence flush wipes, or any other kind of wipe down your toilet.
What is the difference between wet wipes and flushable wipes?
Most wet wipes contain polymers and plastic fibers that don't break down in water or composting conditions. In contrast, flushable wipes have varying percentages of biodegradable fiber that make them more conducive to flushing. However, plumbing experts recommend that you throw both types into the trash instead of flushing them. Another critical difference is the plastic fibers in flushable wet wipes make them stronger than flushable wipes.
MEDICAL ADVICE DISCLAIMER
The information, including but not limited to text, graphics, images, charts, and any other material on this site, is intended for informational purposes only and does not take the place of medical guidance provided by your physician. No information on this site is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult a qualified medical professional about your condition or circumstances before undertaking a new healthcare regimen.