Flushing things down the toilet may seem harmless at first, but it can lead to major plumbing problems, environmental damage, and hefty clogged toilet repair bills. Toilets are designed to handle only human waste and toilet paper. Anything else can clog pipes, damage septic systems, or pollute our waterways. Below, we’ll walk you through the seven items you should never flush—and why.

1. Wet Wipes

Wet wipes, even those labeled as “flushable,” are a major culprit behind clogged pipes and sewer blockages. Unlike toilet paper, they don’t break down easily in water. These wipes can accumulate in sewer systems, creating “fatbergs” (massive blockages made of wipes, grease, and other debris). Dispose of them in the trash instead.

2. Feminine Hygiene Products

Tampons, pads, and other feminine hygiene products are not designed to break down in water. They expand when wet, leading to pipe blockages. Even if they make it through your plumbing, they can cause problems in municipal sewer systems or septic tanks. Always wrap them up and toss them in a trash bin.

3. Cotton Swabs and Cotton Balls

Cotton products might seem harmless, but they don’t disintegrate like toilet paper. Instead, they absorb water, clump together, and block pipes. Plus, they often contribute to plastic waste if the swabs have plastic stems. Dispose of all cotton products in the garbage.

4. Medication

Flushing expired or unused medication might seem like a quick way to get rid of it, but it can contaminate our water supply. Pharmaceuticals flushed down the toilet can seep into rivers and streams, impacting aquatic life and even our drinking water. Instead, check for local medication disposal programs. Pharmacies or community hazardous waste facilities often accept them for safe disposal.

5. Grease, Oil, or Fat

While it’s tempting to pour that leftover bacon grease or cooking oil into the toilet, don’t do it! Grease can solidify as it cools and stick to the inside of pipes, eventually causing blockages. It can also contribute to fatbergs in sewer systems. Instead, allow grease to cool and solidify in a container, then scrape it into the trash.

6. Paper Towels and Tissues

Paper towels and tissues are thicker than toilet paper and don’t break down as easily. Flushing these can lead to clogs in your plumbing or stress sewer systems. Keep a trash bin handy for disposing of them instead.

7. Dental Floss

Believe it or not, dental floss is another no-go for flushing. The strands are non-biodegradable and can wrap around other debris in pipes, causing blockages. Dispose of floss in your trash to avoid plumbing issues.

Why It Matters

Flushing these non-flushable items can cause blockages in your home’s plumbing and lead to costly repairs. On a larger scale, they can damage sewer systems, overwhelm wastewater treatment facilities, and harm marine ecosystems.

By being mindful of what you flush, you’re not only protecting your home but also contributing to a healthier planet.

What to Do with These Items Instead

• Invest in a small trash bin for your bathroom to make it easy to dispose of non-flushables.
• Recycle when possible: Items like certain paper products and grease containers might be recyclable in some areas.
• Participate in disposal programs for hazardous items such as medication.

A small change in habits goes a long way in ensuring the health of your plumbing system and the environment. Teach your family about proper disposal practices, and together, you can help prevent plumbing problems and reduce pollution.

Next time you’re about to flush something questionable, pause and ask yourself, “Should this really go down the toilet?” Your pipes—and the planet—will thank you.