Wipes
Flushing wipes down the toilet—whether labeled “flushable” or not—creates serious problems for sewer systems and homeowners alike
Flushing wipes down the toilet—whether labeled “flushable” or not—creates serious problems for sewer systems and homeowners alike.
Unlike toilet paper, wipes do not break down quickly in water, allowing them to snag on pipe joints, tree roots, and grease buildup, which can lead to clogs in private sewer laterals and municipal mains. Over time, these materials combine with fats, oils, and grease to form large blockages often referred to as “fatbergs,” causing sewage backups into homes, street overflows, and costly emergency repairs.
For municipalities, wipes increase pump failures, maintenance labor, and treatment costs, while for residents they raise the risk of basement backups, property damage, and unexpected plumbing bills. In short, wipes belong in the trash—not the toilet—because even a single household flushing them contributes to system-wide failures and public health risks.”
Homeowners
Addressing Trash in Water: Initiatives and Innovations
This article explores various efforts to tackle water pollution, including community cleanups, innovative technologies, and educational campaigns to reduce litter and improve water quality.
Homeowners
Reduced dispersibility of flushable wet wipes after wet storage
The scientific report discusses the reduced dispersibility of flushable wet wipes after wet storage, highlighting the impact of storage conditions on their disintegration properties
Homeowners
Rob Villee’s PARSA Letter: Addressing Wipes and Sewer System Challenges
Rob Villee’s letter to PARSA discusses the critical issues of wipes in sewer systems, emphasizing the need for improved maintenance and infrastructure investment
Homeowners
Understanding Flushability: Standards and Challenges
An overview of international efforts to establish flushability standards for wipes, highlighting key specifications, testing methods, and global initiatives.