Using toilets as trashcans is a common mistake that homeowners make. As the fixtures are only designed to send biodegradable waste to the septic tank, non-flushable items can get stuck in drain pipes and cause damaging clogs. To avoid a frantic call to an emergency plumbing contractor, below are a few items to dispose of in the garbage instead of the toilet. 

What Can Cause Toilets to Clog?

1. Wet Wipes

From taking off makeup to changing babies’ diapers, wet wipes come in handy in many homes. Unlike toilet paper, wet wipes contain polyester or polypropylene, plastic textiles that don’t dissolve in water. This means the sheets could get stuck in toilet drain pipes and bind with oils and fats to create major blockages. 

2. Medications

Call a pharmacist for suggestions on how to dispose of medication. Too often, people go the easy route and flush leftover and expired drugs down the toilet—increasing the likelihood they’ll need help from plumbing contractors down the line.

Liquid-release capsules and powder tablets can dissolve in the water, coating drain pipes with residue. When the channels are narrow, there’s more risk of other non-biodegradable items getting stuck. The chemicals could eventually contaminate groundwater, too. 

3. Feminine Hygiene Products

Tampons and sanitary pads won’t disintegrate in your plumbing system. The string fibers, cotton, and paper could wedge into confined areas. To prevent this problem, wrap used feminine hygiene products in tissue and then place them in a trash bag for garbage collection. You can also place a bin with a lid in the bathroom to hold the waste for disposal.

Whether you need routine drain cleaning or more extensive services to clear a blockage, the licensed (License #7377) plumbing contractors at Charles Chester Plumbing & Heating in Elko, NV, will help. They have been providing HVAC, plumbing, and septic services in Elko County for over 50 years, which means the crew can find a solution to your problem. Visit the plumbing contractors online to see what types of work they perform and call (775) 738-6125 for an appointment. Get tips to care for plumbing equipment on Facebook.