How Flushing Facial Tissues Can Clog Your Pipes: A Cautionary Tale

Flushing facial tissues down the toilet might seem innocuous, but it can lead to significant plumbing issues. Despite their soft texture and apparent flushability, facial tissues pose a threat to your plumbing system. In this article, we delve into why you shouldn’t flush facial tissues and the potential consequences of doing so, according to Trenchless Solutions.

Flushing Facial Tissues Can Clog

Why Can’t You Flush Facial Tissues? 

Facial tissues, commonly known by the brand name Kleenex, are designed to be soft and absorbent, making them ideal for blowing your nose or wiping away tears. However, unlike toilet paper, facial tissues are not intended to break down quickly when submerged in water. Toilet paper is specifically engineered to disintegrate rapidly upon contact with water, ensuring it doesn’t cause blockages in your plumbing system. In contrast, facial tissues retain their structural integrity when wet, making them prone to causing clogs.

The Consequences of Flushing Facial Tissues 

When flushed down the toilet, facial tissues can accumulate in your pipes and sewer system, leading to blockages. These blockages can cause toilets to overflow, drains to become slow or clogged, and sewage backups in your home. Moreover, the accumulation of facial tissues in sewer lines can contribute to larger-scale issues within municipal sewer systems, potentially leading to costly repairs and environmental damage.

According to Experts

According to Trenchless Solutions, a leading provider of innovative sewer repair and rehabilitation services, emphasizes the importance of proper waste disposal to prevent plumbing problems. According to their experts, flushing facial tissues is a common yet avoidable mistake that can result in costly and disruptive plumbing repairs. Trenchless Solutions recommends disposing of facial tissues in the trash instead of flushing them down the toilet to mitigate the risk of clogs and sewer backups.

The Environmental Impact 

In addition to causing plumbing problems, flushing facial tissues can have adverse environmental consequences. When facial tissues accumulate in sewer systems, they can contribute to blockages and overflows, leading to the release of raw sewage into waterways. This contamination can harm aquatic ecosystems, pollute drinking water sources, and endanger public health. By properly disposing of facial tissues in the trash, you can help prevent these environmental hazards and protect your community’s water resources.

Conclusion 

While it may be convenient to flush facial tissues down the toilet, doing so can have detrimental effects on your plumbing system and the environment. To avoid costly repairs and environmental damage, it’s essential to refrain from flushing facial tissues and instead dispose of them in the trash. By following this simple practice, you can help maintain the integrity of your plumbing system and contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment.