The Truth About Flushable Wipes and Your Septic Tank
Flushable wipes are marketed as safe for toilets and septic systems, but the reality is more complicated. While they may break down faster than regular cleaning wipes, they still pose a serious risk to septic tanks and drain fields. Here’s what Tucson homeowners need to know about flushable wipes and why they can cause expensive problems.
Why Flushable Wipes Are a Problem
Unlike toilet paper, flushable wipes do not break down quickly in water. They often stay intact long enough to create clogs in pipes, septic tanks, and pumps. Over time, wipes can tangle with other debris in your system, forming blockages that require professional removal.
The Breakdown Process: Toilet Paper vs. Flushable Wipes
- Toilet paper is designed to disintegrate within seconds of contact with water.
- Flushable wipes can remain intact for hours or even days, especially in low-flow septic tanks.
How Wipes Affect Septic Systems
- Clogs in pipes that connect your home to the septic tank
- Accumulation in the tank that increases pumping frequency
- Damage to pumps in systems that use lift stations
- Reduced efficiency of the bacterial breakdown process due to physical obstructions
Environmental Impact
Even if wipes make it through your septic system, they can still cause issues in the environment. They often end up in waterways, contributing to pollution and harming wildlife.
Better Alternatives
- Use septic-safe toilet paper only
- Keep a small trash bin in bathrooms for wipes and other non-flushable items
- Educate family members and guests about what can and cannot be flushed
What to Do If You’ve Been Flushing Wipes
If you’ve been regularly flushing wipes, schedule a septic inspection as soon as possible. A professional can check for blockages, remove accumulated debris, and recommend a maintenance schedule to prevent damage.
Tucson Septic Systems: Protecting Your System
At Tucson Septic Systems, we’ve seen firsthand the damage flushable wipes can cause. Our team provides inspections, pumping, and repairs to keep your system running smoothly and free of unnecessary clogs.
Contact us today to schedule service and safeguard your septic system from costly wipe-related issues.
