Disposable wipes, used for changing baby diapers, personal hygiene, household cleaning, and more, are causing major issues for cities wastewater treatment stations. Although labeled ‘flushable’ or ‘septic safe’ these wipes do not break down the same way as toilet paper does. When flushed, these wipes catch on any imperfection in the sewer pipes, like debris or grease deposits, which creases a dam that grows in size until it fully clogs the pipes. These clogs put stress on community waste water collection and treatment systems, causing premature equipment repair and replacement. They can even lead to backups into homeowner’s basement. Clogs and backups are becoming more prevalent as ‘flushable’ wipes use increases. Luckily, there is a simple solution – throw them in the trash. Even though they may be labeled as ‘flushable’ or ‘septic safe,’ this is not a wastewater treatment endorsed term, all wipes belong in the trash.

You can find a video from the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency about how disposable wipes differ from toilet paper when flushed below.