It may be tempting to do it every once in a while, but you should never flush unnecessary items down your toilet. What seems like a harmless shortcut at first may cost you a lot of money if it happens to get clogged. No matter how small or flexible the items are, they may still constrict your toilet’s pipes, resulting in damages and leaks.
With that said, if you are unsure of the items that should never be flushed down the toilet, no worries, as we’ve listed down a couple of examples to avoid.
Paper Towels and Tissue Papers
It may seem like they’re easy to disintegrate once they’re underwater, and for the most part, that’s true. However, some modern paper towels are durable, well enough for them to accumulate within the pipes and clog them over time.
In such a case, it will still be applicable to throw them in the dustbin instead of flushing them down. The same goes for wipes that are way tougher than tissue papers and may clog your pipes in a matter of minutes.
Cigarettes
While it may be satisfying for some to smoke while taking a massive relief on the toilet, it may not be advisable to flush down the cigarette butt afterwards. Apart from the possibility of contaminating the water with toxic nicotine, it may also clog the pipes due to its insoluble filters.
It doesn’t matter what brand of cigarette you’ll use—all filters have the same properties, which says so much about their inability to dissolve in water.
Expired Medicine
If you happen to have expired medications lying around at home, the safest way to dispose of them would be through the trash or a local medicine disposal program. It is never safe to flush them in the toilet as there is a tendency for them to contaminate the water supply.
The problem here isn’t so much about the clogging, but rather the toxicity of the mixture that may occur if ever you decide to flush them altogether.
Dead Fish
It’s sad to lose a pet, but it would be even more tragic if you’d just flush them down the toilet. Leave them with a bit of dignity and bury them instead.
It is never advisable to flush dead fishes or animals since their bones may not dissolve underwater, causing unnecessary clogs that may have been avoided in the first place. It doesn’t matter if the fish in question is small; it’s still a risk not worth taking.
Chewing Gum
It is one of the most crucial things that you should never, ever flush down your toilet. If you think the items above are harmful, wait ‘till you experience the burden of a clogged toilet due to gum.
The countless hours of taking it out and unclogging your pipes are evident enough of why you should never commit such a mistake. It doesn’t dissolve underwater, and it’s way too sticky to scrub off from your pipes.
Conclusion
It is always tempting to flush things down the toilet, no matter how big or small the item may be. There is just something fun and satisfying about disposing of an object uniquely. However, just because it’s fun to do doesn’t mean that it has no consequences.
A clogged toilet may cost you a lot, mainly if the clog results in heavy damages. In such a case, be careful about your toilet habits and avoid taking shortcuts. Throw your trash in the dustbin or dispose of them outdoors. Trust us; it will save you a lot of cash in the long run.
If you still find your toilet clogged despite your precautions, Muscardin Plumbing offers you well-trusted emergency plumbing services. We offer bathroom renovations, gas fitting, guttering, and downpipes, among other things. Contact us for more information about our plumbing services.