Flushing facial tissues down the toilet may seem like an easy way to dispose of them, but this common habit can cause significant damage to your plumbing, sewage systems, and the environment. Many people assume that tissues, which are soft and often appear similar to toilet paper, can be safely flushed. Unfortunately, this is not the case. In this article, we’ll explore the various problems associated with flushing facial tissues and provide some practical advice on how to properly dispose of them.
The Composition of Facial Tissues vs. Toilet Paper
One of the main reasons facial tissues should not be flushed is due to their composition. Unlike toilet paper, which is designed to disintegrate quickly in water, facial tissues are made to be strong and absorbent, even when wet. This durability makes them ideal for wiping noses and cleaning small messes, but it also means they don’t break down easily in plumbing systems. Instead of dissolving like toilet paper, facial tissues tend to hold their shape, leading to potential clogs and blockages in your home’s pipes.
The Risks of Clogged Pipes
Flushing facial tissues can lead to clogged pipes, which can create a wide range of problems for homeowners. When tissues are flushed, they can get stuck in the pipes, especially in older or more narrow plumbing systems. Over time, the accumulation of tissues can block the flow of water, leading to slow drainage, backups, and even complete blockages. These clogs can require costly repairs or, in severe cases, pipe replacement. It’s important to remember that plumbing systems are not designed to handle anything other than human waste and toilet paper.
Impact on Municipal Sewage Systems
Facial tissues that make it past your home’s plumbing system can still cause problems further down the line in municipal sewage systems. These tissues can clog sewage pipes and interfere with the operation of wastewater treatment plants. Municipal sewage systems are designed to process human waste and toilet paper, both of which break down in water. When materials like facial tissues enter the system, they can lead to blockages, damage treatment equipment, and increase the cost of maintaining the sewage infrastructure.
Environmental Consequences of Flushing Tissues
Flushing facial tissues doesn’t just affect your plumbing; it also has a negative impact on the environment. If tissues make it through sewage treatment plants, they can end up in waterways like rivers, lakes, and oceans. Facial tissues are made from paper, which can take a long time to break down in the environment, especially when treated with chemicals to enhance their strength and softness. This adds to the growing problem of water pollution, affecting marine life and ecosystems. Flushing facial tissues contributes to environmental degradation and wastes resources.
Wet Strength Additives in Facial Tissues
Facial tissues are often treated with wet strength additives, which help them maintain their structure when wet. These additives are what allow the tissues to resist breaking down, even when they come into contact with moisture. While this makes tissues more effective for their intended purpose, it also makes them more problematic for plumbing systems. Wet strength additives prevent tissues from disintegrating in water, which means they can remain intact long after being flushed, contributing to clogs in pipes and sewage systems.
Misconceptions About Flushable Products
There is a common misconception that facial tissues, like some wipes labeled as “flushable,” are safe for toilets. While some products are marketed as flushable, this term can be misleading. Many of these items, including facial tissues, do not disintegrate in water like toilet paper. Despite being flushable in the sense that they go down the drain, they can still cause problems in plumbing systems and sewage plants. To avoid complications, it’s best to limit flushing to human waste and toilet paper only.
Proper Disposal of Facial Tissues
The best way to dispose of facial tissues is to throw them in the trash. Keeping a small waste bin near your toilet for items like tissues, wipes, and sanitary products can help prevent the temptation to flush them. Many facial tissues can also be composted, provided they are free from lotions, dyes, or other chemicals. Composting tissues instead of flushing them is a more environmentally friendly option that reduces waste while keeping your plumbing system safe.
The Cost of Repairs and Maintenance
Flushing facial tissues might seem like a small action, but the consequences can be expensive. Homeowners often face costly repairs due to clogged pipes, damaged plumbing, and sewage backups caused by improper flushing habits. These repairs can range from simple pipe cleanings to more extensive work like replacing sections of piping or addressing damage to municipal sewage systems. By avoiding flushing facial tissues, you can save money on repairs and reduce the likelihood of plumbing emergencies.
The Bottom Line: Think Before You Flush
When it comes to flushing facial tissues the bottom line is simple: don’t do it. While they may seem similar to toilet paper, tissues are not designed to disintegrate in water and can cause significant issues for your plumbing, municipal sewage systems, and the environment. By taking the time to properly dispose of facial tissues in the trash or compost, you can prevent clogged pipes, reduce repair costs, and help protect the planet. Always remember, toilets are only for human waste and toilet paper—nothing else should be flushed.
