Depending on the source, you will find different views on whether flushable wipes are flushable. Some see them as a great alternative to toilet paper and non-flushable wipes, while others question if they are too good to be true.
The point of flushable wet wipes is to gently ‘cleanse’ after using the toilet and may offer a more clean feeling similar to using a bidet. However, there is still a risk of clogging with flushable wipes.
According to sources like City to Sea, a nonprofit organisation campaigning to stop plastic pollution at its source, most flushable wipes are ‘mainly made of plastic, so they don’t break down like toilet paper.’
So, research has shown that most wipes fail to break down. Instead, they clog together into massive ‘fatbergs,’ costing the UK £100 million each year to clear.
So, are flushable wipes truly flushable? Or do they lead to expensive plumbing jobs?
Yes, they are flushable
Manufacturers of flushable wipes typically test whether their products are flushable. However, there is evidence suggesting that even flushable wipes can pose a risk of clogging sewer lines. So, it’s important not to trust what is marketed as ‘flushable’ without conducting independent research.
The truth is, not all wipes are truly flushable, even those that claim to be.
Flushable wipes take longer to break down than toilet paper. While a strip of toilet paper breaks down within 1-4 minutes of contact with water, making it ideal for daily use, wet wipes are made with stronger fibres that often aren’t biodegradable.
Toilet paper is designed to break down quickly and be flushable, whereas flushable wipes contain stronger fibres that may not biodegrade as easily.
If your wipes are made of plastic, be cautious as they can clog your plumbing systems. Plastic wipes can cause significant issues in septic systems.
Always double-check the packaging to confirm if the wipes are truly flushable.
If you do use them, it’s wise to have your drainage systems regularly checked, especially in older homes with cast iron pipes, which can be prone to plumbing issues.
Just make sure you have your plumber on speed dial for drain repairs as flushable wipes are a blockage waiting to happen.
No, they are not flushable
Flushable wipes, despite being manufactured to be safe to flush, take longer to break down than toilet paper, which can lead to clogging.
A 2020 study found that flushable wipes were forming fatbergs which are chunks of solids – wipes combined with grease and fats that block pipes and can cause flooding.
So, if you frequently use wet wipes, be aware that this habit can lead to drain blockages and potentially require costly drain jetting to clear the pipes.
Although flushable wipes might seem more ‘clean’ and convenient they risk clogging and causing long term damage to plumbing systems.
So to avoid the risk of high plumbing bills, avoid using flushable wipes altogether which can cause more frequent clogs.
Instead, bin your wipes, or consider installing a bidet if you like the clean feel of using wet wipes.
Both options help protect your plumbing system by preventing fatberg buildup, which in turn reduces the need for frequent maintenance and costly repairs.
Final thoughts
While flushable wipes can be flushed and are designed to break down more quickly than standard wet wipes, they are not without risks. And although they can technically be flushed, they still have a high potential to cause blockages in plumbing systems. Over time, even flushable wipes can contribute to the formation of fatbergs, which block pipes and can cause flooding.
When it comes to flushing, only a few items are truly safe: toilet paper and bodily waste. Other items like wipes, can cause clogging over time and can cause long term damage to your plumbing system.
Instead, consider other solutions like binning wipes or installing a bidet.
But if you prefer to use wet wipes, try not to use them for every toilet trip and use them very sparingly.
Also, avoid flushing items like period products, paper towels, napkins, hair, crumbs, paint, and medicine.
Note: this is not an exhaustive list.
When it comes to flushing, remember the three P’s- poo, pee and (toilet) paper.
Keep your plumbing bills low and the planet safe by sticking to these basics.
