Just because an object is out of sight, doesn\u2019t mean it should be out of mind. Especially when that object is being flushed down the drain into our water system. Too often, items find a way into our toilets and\u00a0drains\u00a0that can cause adverse effects on our home and the environment. Improper disposal can damage home plumbing,\u00a0sewer pipes, wastewater treatment plants and local aquatic habitats.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019re hoping to avoid these repercussions, take a look at the following guidelines regarding what not to flush down the drain:<\/strong><\/p>\n Cooking grease, oils and fats<\/strong> Hygiene products<\/strong> Tampons, sanitary pads
\nWhen you\u2019re finished cooking, don\u2019t let cooking grease slide down the drain with a little soap and water. Don\u2019t rely on the garbage disposal, either, as it will not stop these oils from\u00a0clogging\u00a0your drain. A great way to dispose of bacon grease or extra oils or fats is in an empty milk or orange juice carton. These have linings, so the grease doesn\u2019t soak through. Also, consider an old Mason jar or pickle jar for disposal.<\/p>\n
\nA plumber friend once told me, \u201cThose tampon boxes lie.\u201d And though flushing tampons may seem quick and easy, as my friend suggested, they are often the culprit of many clogged toilets. Even if they do pass through the sewer pipes, they can damage equipment at wastewater treatment plants. While tampons are the most common, many hygiene products are flushed without too much consideration. In order to protect your toilet and other pipes from clogging, it is recommended that you don\u2019t flush the following:<\/p>\n
\nCondoms
\nWipes
\nCotton Swabs
\nDental floss
\nFacial tissue
\nPaper towels
\nThese products weren\u2019t designed for your pipes or for your communities\u2019\u00a0sewage system. Keeping these products out of pipes and drains will help you, your community and the environment. Make sure to keep a lined wastebasket in your home\u2019s bathroom so guests know there is a spot to throw away these kinds of items.<\/p>\n