You’ve probably seen the words “flushable” on certain products and assumed they’re safe for your toilet. But here’s the hard truth: just because something can go down the toilet doesn’t mean it should.

At Mike’s Plumbing, we’ve seen our fair share of plumbing disasters caused by things that were supposedly “flushable.” Trust us—your pipes (and wallet) will thank you for avoiding these five common culprits:

• Flushable Wipes: Despite the name, these wipes don’t break down like toilet paper. They build up in pipes, clog sewer systems, and have even contributed to massive “fatbergs” in city sewer lines. Toss them in the trash instead.

• Paper Towels & Tissues: These are made to absorb—not break apart. They’re thicker and tougher than toilet paper and can easily cause blockages when flushed. If it’s not TP, don’t toss it in the bowl.

• Feminine Hygiene Products: Tampons and pads are designed to expand with moisture, which makes them especially risky for plumbing systems. Flushing them can lead to serious backups and expensive repairs.

• Cotton Balls & Q-Tips: They might seem small and harmless, but they clump together and cause blockages in your pipes over time. Always throw them in the trash—never down the toilet.

• Grease, Oil, and Food Scrap: You may think the garbage disposal can handle it, but grease solidifies as it cools, clinging to pipes and causing slow drains or full-on clogs. And food scraps? They belong in the compost or garbage, not your sink or toilet.

When in doubt, toss it—don’t flush it. Even products labeled as “flushable” can cause damage over time, leading to clogs, backups, and costly repairs.

A little extra caution now can save you a major headache later. And if your plumbing ever needs a hand, we’re here to help—no judgment, just solutions.