Can Flushable Wipes Clog Pipes? Here’s What You Need to Know

Ricky Pattillo • December 2, 2021

Personal wipes labeled “flushable” can be bought at most stores, sometimes on the very same shelf beside “non-flushable” wipes. These disposable, single-use sheets are marketed as an alternative option to toilet paper, giving customers another way to clean up after using the bathroom. Many people enjoy flushable wipes because they can appear to be a more clean, hygienic option when compared to the usual dry, thin paper that falls apart.

Flushable wipes are often made of fibrous materials like cellulose that have been treated with chemicals and reinforced with polyester or plastic fibers to make them more durable. They are then moistened with liquid solutions. Because of the stronger and wet material, wipes typically perform better for cleansing than toilet paper, and don’t break apart during use. For those reasons, along with the added scents and soothing agents like aloe, flushable wipes are seen as a better and more hygienic alternative to toilet paper when things get messy.

Toilet wipes are convenient and create less friction than classic toilet paper, but like most things with big claims, they aren’t actually as great as they seem. If you were wondering whether or not these flushable wipes can clog pipes, we are going to explain that in more detail.

So, are flushable wipes really flushable?

Flushable wipes meant for use in the bathroom are always advertised as being safe to flush down the toilet, giving the customer the impression that they are just as safe for a septic system as toilet paper. However, because of the difference in material and composition between wet wipes and toilet paper, you may be wondering whether that is actually true.

The reason why toilet paper can easily break down in pipes and the septic system is because of the material it is composed of. First of all, toilet paper is actual paper. It’s made mostly from trees and because of this, it is biodegradable. In your septic system, bacteria will completely break down what remains of the toilet paper. In fact, as soon as the toilet paper hits the water, it begins dissolving. This makes toilet paper just as suitable for disposal through the toilet as human waste.

Wipes on the other hand, are completely different from the toilet paper we commonly use. The strong fiber and plastic combination makes wipes difficult to tear, and means these wipes do not dissolve in water. Because of this, they do not break down in pipes and instead build up, eventually blocking pipes in the process and leaving homeowners no choice but to call in a clogged toilet repair service.

The answer to the question that many people are asking is no, most flushable wipes are not as flushable as they are advertised to be. In fact, there is no requirement for manufacturers to “test” the flushability of a wipe before selling it, and there is also little difference between the chemical composition of a “flushable” wipe and a “non-flushable” wipe.

What about biodegradable wipes?

There are many brands of flushable wipes that claim to be biodegradable, and you may be wondering if these are safer options. If you want to try a biodegradable wipe, try dropping the wipe in water and seeing how it reacts. If it is similar to toilet paper and immediately begins dissolving or flaking, you may have a wipe that can actually be flushed. Still, be cautious about them. Though a company may claim a wipe is biodegradable, it still may not have enough time to break down in pipes without building up.Oftentimes these wipes are labeled biodegradable because they will break down in a landfill, not because they are able to be flushed into a sewer system or septic tank.

In general, plumbers and water treatment facilities recommend that only human waste and toilet paper is flushed down toilets. Anything else, even biodegradable wipes, go against that advice and can always pose a risk to your plumbing. After all, not everything advertised is completely true. Just like with flushable wipes, you can’t trust for certain that any biodegradable toilet wipes are actually safe to flush.

What To Do with Your Flushable Wipes

So, now you know that flushable wipes aren't good for your pipes. However, if you would still like to continue using wipes, there are some other disposal options available that won’t clog your toilet. Here are some safe options for getting rid of used wipes:

Throw Them Away in The Trash

The trash can is always a simple solution for all the nasty stuff you want to get rid of. Just like diapers and baby wipes, make it a priority to bag up used wipes for disposal. To make it easy, keep a little bathroom trash can within reach of the toilet, and toss the wipe into the trash rather than dropping it in the toilet once you are done with business. The wipes will safely exit the house without complications along with the rest of the trash.

Use a Sealed Container

If you’re worried about used wipes stinking up the bathroom, you can always use a separate bucket to store wipes alone. Keep a container close to the toilet so you can contain wipes separately. Seal the container with a lid to lock in any odors until trash day.

Compost Biodegradable Wipes

For biodegradable wipes only, finding new use for the wipes through compost is an option. If they are actually as biodegradable as claimed, they should easily break down. If they don’t, it still means no harm to your toilet.

How to Tell if You Have Clogged Pipes from Flushing Wipes

Really, there is no way to tell that your toilet is clogged specifically with wipes unless you see them come out after using the plunger or drain snake. However, if you have been using wipes frequently, then there is a high possibility that it may be a contributing factor to the clog. If your toilet is gurgling and no sort of chemical solutions or DIY concoctions are loosening the clog, then the clog was likely caused by an obstructive object like wipes. This is because wipes are so tough that they cannot be dissolved by any sort of chemicals.

What are Some Alternative Cleansing Options?

Once you experience the advantages of wipes over toilet paper, it may be hard to give them up again. But there are other options out there that you may end up liking, too. These options pose no threats to your pipes and still do a good job at cleaning up. Here are some other wiping options worth trying out:

Use a Bidet

Bidets require a lot less wiping because they spray you clean with water. Traditional bidets are made of porcelain and similar to the shape of a toilet bowl. Even if you don’t have one like that, there are other ways to harness the spray cleaning methods of bidets. For example, some more advanced toilets have bidets built into them. You can activate the bidet without ever getting off the toilet through the controls. The other option is using a small toilet add-on product which is meant to replace a built-in bidet.

Reusable Wipes

Reusable wipes are similar to wash cloths, but they are often made from softer material and can be purchased in fun designs. These cloths are not meant to be flushed down the toilet. They are used once and then washed before being used again. The reusable cloth wipes get the job done, save you money in the long run, and are more decorative than regular toilet paper.

Toilet Paper Spray

This last idea is pretty unique and creates a wipe that is most similar to regular flushable wipes. The product called toilet paper spray is used with regular toilet paper. You simply spray a few times onto a piece of folded toilet paper and it is instantly transformed into a wet wipe. The difference is that this one is perfectly safe to flush down the toilet.

Do you have clogged pipes? Contact the experts at Plumb Works today

Unfortunately, a lot of DIY solutions for clogged pipes won’t work when toilet wipes are the clogging agent. There are no cleaning options out there which can break them down. That leaves the plunger and drain snakes as the only possible at-home cures. If those don’t work or water is backing up into other plumbing fixtures, then you have no choice but to seek the help of a clogged drain repair company in order to get the toilet back in working order.

Plumb Works has experienced plumbers that know just what to do when flushable wipes have stopped up your toilet. Just call us at 404-524-1825 to schedule a quality plumbing service.

< Older Post

Newer Post >

A Plumber’s Guide to 'It’s a Want, Not a Need' Cosmetic Upgrades for Your Home

March 4, 2025

If you're thinking about stepping up your home’s plumbing game, here are a few 'want, not need' additions that can bring a touch of luxury to your space.

The Importance of Commercial Plumbing Maintenance: Prevent Costly Repairs and Downtime

January 30, 2025

When running a business, plumbing might not be top of mind—until something goes wrong. A burst pipe, a backed-up drain, or a faulty water heater can disrupt operations, inconvenience customers, and lead to expensive repairs. Regular commercial plumbing maintenance helps prevent these issues, saving businesses time, money, and stress. But not all businesses have the same plumbing needs. Let’s take a look at why maintenance is crucial and what specific industries should focus on. Why Regular Maintenance Matters Neglecting plumbing maintenance can lead to serious problems, including: ✔ Unexpected Downtime – A plumbing emergency can halt operations, costing businesses revenue and productivity. ✔ Expensive Repairs – Small issues, like a slow drain, can escalate into costly repairs if left unchecked. ✔ Health & Safety Concerns – Leaks and water damage can lead to mold growth, contamination, and even structural damage. ✔ Regulatory Compliance – Many industries must meet health and safety standards for plumbing systems, especially with backflow testing . Backflow testing must be performed annually in the State of Georgia for all businesses that connect directly or indirectly to the public water supply. By scheduling routine maintenance, businesses can catch minor issues before they become major problems, ensuring smooth operations year-round. Industry-Specific Plumbing Needs Restaurants & Food Service For restaurants, hotels, and commercial kitchens, plumbing problems can be disastrous. A clogged grease trap or backed-up drain can lead to kitchen shutdowns and health code violations. Regular maintenance should include: Grease trap cleaning or new grease trap installation . Drain and sewer line inspections. Water heater checks for dishwashers and sinks. Healthcare & Medical Facilities Hospitals, dental offices, and clinics rely on clean water and functional plumbing for sanitation and patient care. Preventative maintenance in these spaces should focus on: Backflow prevention to ensure water quality. Regular pipe inspections to prevent leaks and contamination. Water heater maintenance for sterilization equipment. Office Buildings & Corporate Spaces Large office buildings see heavy restroom use, making plumbing upkeep essential. Common maintenance needs include: Checking for leaks in restrooms and breakroom sinks. Maintaining water pressure for multiple floors. Inspecting sewer lines to prevent backups. Retail & Shopping Centers Customer restrooms, employee break areas, and utility sinks are all essential in retail spaces. Routine checks should include: Leak detection in public restrooms (especially for Mom & Pop shops in metro Atlanta with 1-2 bathrooms on site.) Water heater maintenance for stores with in-house cafés. Ensuring floor drains are clear to prevent flooding. Industrial & Manufacturing Facilities Factories and warehouses use plumbing for both sanitation and production processes. Preventative maintenance should focus on: Inspecting high-use pipes for corrosion. Checking for leaks in chemical or waste disposal systems. Ensuring emergency eyewash stations and safety showers function properly. Places of Worship Churches, synagogues, mosques, and other places of worship often have large gatherings that rely on the plumbing functioning correctly. With your patrons in attendance for long periods, on-site kitchens, and regular community events, regular maintenance is essential and should include: Checking restrooms for leaks, clogs, and proper water pressure. Inspecting and maintaining water heaters for kitchens and fellowship halls. Ensuring baptismal fonts and other specialty plumbing features are in good working order. Keeping sewer and drainage systems clear to accommodate large services and events. Schedule Commercial Plumbing Maintenance With Plumb Works A proactive approach to commercial plumbing maintenance saves businesses from expensive surprises. Scheduling routine inspections, cleaning drains, and keeping plumbing systems in top shape ensures smooth operations and regulatory compliance. If you own or manage a commercial property, don’t wait for a plumbing emergency. Invest in regular maintenance to protect your business, employees, and customers. Contact Plumb Works today to schedule a service or set up a custom maintenance plan that fits your industry’s needs.

Your Residential Plumbing Maintenance Guide for 2025

December 19, 2024

Keeping track of all the plumbing maintenance your home needs all year can be tricky. That's why we've created this helpful guide crafted by our experts! Consider signing up for a maintenance agreement for ultimate peace of mind.

How to "Winterize" Your Home and Commercial Building Plumbing Before Holiday Break

November 28, 2024

Going away for winter? Here's our guide on how to winterize your home and business's plumbing system.

Storm Drain Cleaning: Your Guide to Preventing Leaf Buildup and Overflow

October 31, 2024

As fall brings cooler temperatures and vibrant foliage, it’s easy to forget that falling leaves can create significant problems for your storm drains. Both residential and commercial properties are at risk, especially when regular maintenance is neglected. In this blog, we’ll discuss the importance of cleaning storm drains, how leaf buildup leads to overflow, and why keeping up with maintenance can prevent expensive repairs. The Problem with Leaf Buildup in Storm Drains Fallen leaves may look harmless, but when they accumulate in storm drains , they create blockages that prevent water from flowing freely. This can cause: Overflowing drains in parking lots Water damage to building foundations and basements Unpleasant smells, especially for commercial properties that haven’t maintained their storm drains in 5+ years Leaf buildup is often forgotten until it’s too late and the water starts overflowing. Regular cleaning is the key to preventing these issues. Why Regular Maintenance is Essential Storm drain maintenance should be conducted at least once a year, or every other year in lower-risk areas. This can include: Camera inspections to check for blockages or damage. Jetting lines to clear out leaves and other debris. Maintenance is especially critical if your home or commercial property sits below street level. Properties at a lower elevation are more susceptible to flooding, and clogged storm drains can make this worse. If your house or business is above street level we recommend you perform storm drain maintenance once every 2 years unless you notice frequent leaf buildup in the storm drain grates on your property. The Dangers of Waiting Too Long All it takes is one large storm for clogged drains to cause a sewer overflow. While overflow often occurs in parking lots, the worst-case scenario involves water backing up into your building’s foundation or basement. This can lead to structural damage, mold, and costly repairs. For commercial properties, water damage can also disrupt business operations and create liability concerns. Property owners who neglect maintenance for five or more years might even notice persistent foul odors, which could indicate significant buildup and the presence of trapped debris or stagnant water. How to Prevent Overflow After a Storm The best way to prevent storm drain overflow is to stay on top of regular maintenance. However, if a storm hits and you suspect your drains may be blocked, it’s important to act quickly: Check for standing water in low-lying areas or parking lots. If you notice an overflow, call a professional to inspect and clear your storm drains immediately. After heavy storms, consider scheduling a post-storm inspection to ensure everything is functioning properly. Protect Your Home and Business With Plumb Works Storm drain cleaning is an easy task to forget, but it’s crucial for avoiding water damage and keeping your property safe. By maintaining your drains yearly or every other year, you can rest easy knowing your property is protected from the dangers of leaf buildup and storm drain overflow. Whether you own a home or a commercial building, regular inspections and maintenance will save you from costly repairs in the future. Don't wait until after the next big storm— schedule your storm drain cleaning with Plumb Works today!

Plumb Works Is Plumbing & Mechanical’s 2024 Residential Contractor of the Year

October 16, 2024

We are excited to announce that Plumb Works has been recognized as the 2024 Residential Contractor of the Year, an accolade that speaks to our unwavering commitment to providing exceptional service and superior workmanship. This accolade, awarded by Plumbing & Mechanical Magzine, is given to contractors that foster long-standing customer relationships, a strong work ethic, and a deep-rooted commitment to quality service. You can read the full article here . What This Award Means to Us At Plumb Works, delivering quality service to our Atlanta community is at the core of everything we do. Our team works diligently to ensure each customer receives reliable, efficient, and friendly service, whether it’s a small plumbing repair or a large-scale project. Receiving the 2024 Residential Contractor of the Year award is a testament to the dedication and expertise of our plumbers, and we are truly honored by this recognition. Our Commitment to You This accolade is a reminder of why we do what we do. We believe that every home deserves dependable plumbing services that leave you confident in your system's performance. Whether you need routine maintenance, emergency repairs, or a complete overhaul, Plumb Works is ready to help. As we celebrate this recognition, we want to thank all of our loyal customers for your trust and feedback. You inspire us to improve and grow every day. Experience Award-Winning Plumbing Services with Plumb Works If you’re looking for a plumbing company that’s as dedicated to customer satisfaction as we are to solving your plumbing problems, look no further. Call Plumb Works today or fill out a form to schedule your next service and see firsthand why we’ve earned the 2024 Residential Contractor of The Year.

Plumb Works Owner, Jerome Sabol, Returns to WSB’s “Lenz on Business” To Share Tips and Tricks With Listeners

October 15, 2024

On October 13, Jerome Sabol, the award-winning master plumber and owner of Plumb Works, made a return visit to “Lenz On Business,” a one-hour business talk program, which airs weekly on WSB Radio. Sabol dispensed his own brand of tricks and treats by sharing plumbing maintenance suggestions with listeners. Sabol began his conversation with host Jon Waterhouse by sharing a little bit of Plumb Works’ history, how the independent company came to be, and its continued growth through the years. With fall in the air, Jerome discussed seasonal considerations listeners should keep in mind, including pre-winter preparations such as winterizing outside faucets, draining down water lines, becoming aware of shut-off valves, checking water heaters , and other considerations. The most common issue during winter months, he said, would be freezing pipes and water lines in outside walls that homeowners aren’t aware of. According to Jerome, heat pump water heaters are a highly efficient option for homeowners looking to reduce energy costs. In fact, Georgia Power is currently offering rebates to those who install these energy-saving systems, making it a great time to upgrade. Federal tax credits for heat pump water heaters , he said, are also available. Jerome also discussed the recent complications caused by Hurricane Helene and some of the challenges area residents faced in its aftermath. He recommended homeowners prepare for future hurricanes by properly maintaining their storm drains , and making sure they’re clear and functional. Additional topics ran the plumbing gamut from the key elements of commercial plumbing to Plumb Works’ annual maintenance plans, which come with a free inspection each year. Sabol closed the show by sharing advice with aspiring plumbing professionals, pointing them in the right direction on how to best set up their careers for success by attending industry expos, participating in apprenticeships, and more. Schedule a Service With Plumb Works If you have questions or would like to schedule a service visit with a Plumb Works professional, visit the schedule service page or call 404-524-1825.

How Paleo Diets Affect Your Home’s Drains

By Lizzi Skipper • September 23, 2024

Discover how the Paleo diet impacts your plumbing! Learn about fat buildup, food scraps, and tips to keep your drains healthy while enjoying whole foods.

Summer Renovation Do’s and Don’ts for Your Plumbing

By Lizzi Skipper • August 28, 2024

Summer is ideal for plumbing updates. Discover key do’s and don’ts to avoid costly mistakes and ensure smooth renovations. Plan ahead, follow codes, and choose quality.

Jerome Sabol, Owner, and Josh Czerniak, Service Manager, of Plumb Works Appear On WSB’s “Lenz On Business”

July 16, 2024

Jerome Sabol and Josh Czerniak, two key members of the Plumb Works team, joined guest host Belinda Skelton on the July 14 episode of “Lenz On Business,” a one-hour business talk show on 95.5 WSB, Atlanta’s news and talk. One of the city’s leading plumbing companies, Plumb Works has been in business since 1989. The company proudly bears an A-plus rating from the Better Business Bureau. Sabol and Czerniak drew about their knowledge and experience, and chatted about the business and an array of timely issues and practical tips listeners can use. They discussed a range of topics including what listeners can do themselves and what they absolutely need a plumber for. As for the former, Sabol recommended listeners check out the Plumb Works Academy website (PlumbWorksAcademy.com) with its array of how-to videos. Skelton asked the pair about Plumb Works’ annual service contracts and if they’re worth the investment. “It can be very important to have your plumbing system evaluated once a year, and that’s what is included in our service agreement,” Czerniak said. “We’ll walk through your entire home, look under every sink, check your water heater, the temperature of your water, your water pressure, all the ins and outs. It’s like having your vitals done when you go to the doctor.” Other subjects of conversation included the importance of water heater service, summer plumbing renovation dos and dont’s, whole-house water filtration systems, garbage disposals, underground leak detection, and much more. Schedule a Plumbing Service With Plumb Works If you have questions or would like to schedule a service visit with a Plumb Works professional, visit the schedule service page or call 404-524-1825 .