City public works employees work hard to keep sewer pipes and pumps in good working order. But costs are mounting because people in their homes and at work are throwing materials into the toilet or down the drain that don’t belong in the sanitary sewer system.
We're committed to helping cities educate the public about what not to flush or pour down the drain.
Top 10 "What Not to Flush"
- Wipes (even if they are labeled "flushable," they do not break down)
- Tissues and paper towels
- Dental floss
- Tampons and sanitary pads
- Condoms
- Cotton swabs and cotton balls
- Medicines
- Rags
- Fats, oils, and grease
- Clumping cat litter
Additonal Resources
The National Association of Clean Water Agencies is working with the nonwoven fabrics industry in the U.S. to develop new guidelines for what constitutes a flushable product. The International Standards Organization is also developing technical specifications for flushable products.
More information