Why You Should Never Flush Baby Wipes

Despite being marketed as flushable, most baby wipes do not disintegrate in water the way toilet paper does. They are designed to be durable and resist tearing, which makes them a nightmare for your plumbing system. When you flush baby wipes, they can combine with other debris and substances in your pipes to create blockages. Over time, it can become serious enough to require a plumbing repair service from a professional plumber.

Common Plumbing Complications

When wipes accumulate in your pipes, they can lead to more severe plumbing complications that require extensive repairs. Here are some of the common issues homeowners face:

• Clogged Pipes: The most immediate issue is clogged pipes. When baby wipes don't break down, they can easily get stuck in the bends and joints of your plumbing, causing water to back up and leading to slow drains or recurring clogs.
• Damaged Septic Systems: For homes with septic systems, flushing baby wipes can be particularly damaging. These wipes do not break down in septic tanks, causing them to fill up more quickly and potentially leading to repairs or replacements.
• Sewer Backups: In more severe cases, the buildup of baby wipes can cause sewer lines to back up. This results in raw sewage backing up into your home, creating an unsanitary and hazardous situation that requires an immediate plumbing service.

Impact on Larger Plumbing Networks

The problems caused by flushing baby wipes are not limited to individual households. When these wipes make their way into municipal sewer systems, they can cause disruptions and damage. Here are a few ways in which larger plumbing networks are affected:

• Sewage Treatment Plant Strain: Baby wipes that make it through household plumbing systems often end up at sewage treatment plants, where they can clog pumps and filters. This increases maintenance costs and can also lead to environmental damage if untreated sewage is accidentally released.
• Increased Maintenance Costs: Municipalities spend millions of dollars each year dealing with blockages caused by baby wipes. This includes the cost of clearing clogs, repairing damaged infrastructure, and maintaining equipment.
• Environmental Impact: The synthetic fibers in baby wipes do not biodegrade easily, contributing to long-term environmental pollution. When wipes escape into natural water systems, they can harm wildlife.

Sustainable Alternatives to Flushing Baby Wipes

Given the issues that baby wipes can cause, it’s clear that they should never be flushed. However, there are sustainable alternatives and best practices that can help mitigate these problems:

• Dispose of Wipes Properly: Always dispose of baby wipes in the trash rather than flushing them down the toilet. Keeping a designated trash can in the bathroom can make this process more convenient.
• Use Flushable Wipes Cautiously: Some wipes are marketed as flushable, but it's essential to read the fine print. Even "flushable" wipes can cause problems in certain plumbing systems. When in doubt, throw them out.
• Choose Biodegradable Products: Look for biodegradable baby wipes made from natural fibers. These are more likely to break down in the environment and cause less harm to plumbing systems and water treatment facilities.

Do You Need a Clog Removal or Plumbing Repair Service?

While baby wipes offer convenience and cleanliness, they can cause damage to your property’s plumbing system. If you ever find yourself dealing with a plumbing issue caused by baby wipes or any other problem, Rooter Hero Plumbing & Air is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a plumbing service with a professional in your neighborhood.