Can You Use Flushable Wipes in a Septic System?
I remember the first time I used a flushable wipe. It was like a revelation. Finally, a way to clean myself without having to get up and go to the bathroom. I was so excited that I told all my friends about them. But then, I started hearing rumors that flushable wipes were actually bad for septic systems. I was horrified. I had been using them for months!
So, I did some research and found out that the rumors were true. Flushable wipes are not actually flushable. They are made of a material that does not break down easily in water. This means that they can clog up your septic system and cause it to fail.
What Are Flushable Wipes?
Flushable wipes are wipes that are designed to be flushed down the toilet. They are often marketed as being biodegradable and safe for septic systems. However, the truth is that most flushable wipes are not actually biodegradable. They are made of a material called spunlace, which is a combination of polyester and cellulose. Polyester is a plastic that does not break down easily in water. Cellulose is a plant-based material that does break down in water, but it can take a long time.
Because flushable wipes do not break down easily in water, they can clog up your septic system. A septic system is a underground tank that treats wastewater from your home. The wastewater flows into the tank, where it is broken down by bacteria. The bacteria convert the waste into sludge and water. The water is then released into the environment, while the sludge remains in the tank.
Why Are Flushable Wipes Bad for Septic Systems?
Flushable wipes can clog up your septic system in several ways. First, they can clog the pipes that lead to the tank. Second, they can clog the filter in the tank. Third, they can clog the drain field, which is the area where the treated wastewater is released into the environment.
If your septic system becomes clogged, it can cause a number of problems. The wastewater can back up into your home, causing flooding. The bacteria in the tank can die, which can lead to the formation of harmful gasses. The drain field can become saturated, which can lead to the contamination of groundwater.
What Should You Do Instead of Flushing Wipes?
If you want to avoid the problems that can be caused by flushable wipes, you should dispose of them in the trash. You can also use a biodegradable wipe that is designed to be flushed down the toilet. Biodegradable wipes are made of a material that breaks down easily in water, so they will not clog up your septic system.
Here are some tips for using flushable wipes safely:
- Only flush one wipe at a time.
- Do not flush wipes if your septic system is already clogged.
- Use a biodegradable wipe that is designed to be flushed down the toilet.
FAQ
Q: Can I flush baby wipes in a septic system?
A: No, you should not flush baby wipes in a septic system. Baby wipes are made of a material that does not break down easily in water, so they can clog up your septic system.
Q: Can I flush disinfecting wipes in a septic system?
A: No, you should not flush disinfecting wipes in a septic system. Disinfecting wipes are made of a material that does not break down easily in water, and they can also contain chemicals that can harm the bacteria in your septic tank.
Q: What should I do if I accidentally flushed a wipe down the toilet?
A: If you accidentally flushed a wipe down the toilet, you should try to retrieve it as soon as possible. You can use a plunger or a toilet auger to try to remove the wipe. If you are unable to remove the wipe, you should call a plumber.
Conclusion
Flushable wipes can be convenient, but they are not good for your septic system. If you want to avoid the problems that can be caused by flushable wipes, you should dispose of them in the trash. You can also use biodegradable wipes that are designed to be flushed down the toilet.
Are you interested in learning more about septic systems? Check out our other blog posts on the topic!
