Why ‘Flushable’ Wipes Cause Blockages and Fatbergs

Fatbergs are formed when wet wipes or “flushable” wipes are flushed down the toilet and become entangled in pipes with oils, fats, grease, and other debris such as dental floss, cotton tips, and food scraps. These materials bind together, leading to the creation of a rock-hard mass, known as a fatberg, that blocks the plumbing system.

Queensland Urban Utilities reported removing 360 fatbergs from the sewer lines within a year. This figure represents a significant portion of the 4,000 blockages that occur annually in QUU’s sewer pipes, costing approximately $1.5 million.

Many people mistakenly believe that fatbergs can only form in sewer systems, but they can develop in any drainage pipes, including those in residential properties.

Are “Flushable” Wet Wipes Safe for Septic Systems?

Despite being labeled “flushable,” wet wipes take longer to break down than toilet paper. This delayed disintegration often results in clogged drain pipes. Over time, a mass of flushable wipes can form in the toilet drain, requiring a plumber to remove them. In some cases, the block may enter the sewer system, causing a sewer backup, which may necessitate emergency plumbing services.

Wipes can accumulate and form massive fatbergs. One such fatberg in Brisbane had to be removed by crane, as it measured over seven meters in length.

The Damage “Flushable” Wipes Can Cause to Pipes

While flushable wipes may pass through the toilet’s curved pipe, they can become stuck in drainpipes, leading to blockages. Unlike toilet paper, which disintegrates quickly when wet, flushable wipes maintain their structure for longer, making them more prone to clogging. Without sufficient water to push them through, wipes can obstruct sewer lines and necessitate frequent septic tank pumping.

In severe cases, fatbergs can cause backups in the sewage system, flooding properties and potentially damaging the entire system. They can also burn out sewage pumps. Even when the wipes make it through the pipes, they may clog sewage treatment plant pumps, which can lead to widespread damage, blockages, and water shortages affecting multiple households.

What is a Fatberg?

A fatberg is a large mass of waste that builds up in the plumbing system due to the accumulation of non-biodegradable materials, such as “flushable” wipes. These materials combine with oils and fats, creating a sticky mass that blocks pipes. Although fatbergs are common, they can be avoided by preventing non-biodegradable items from entering the sewer system.

What Should Be Flushed Down the Toilet?

Toilets should not be treated as trash cans. The only items that should be flushed are:

• Urine
• Feces
• Toilet paper

Flushing other items, like baby wipes or “flushable” wet wipes, will likely lead to fatbergs and blockages in the plumbing system.

What Should Not Be Flushed Down the Toilet?

Anything other than urine, feces, and toilet paper should not be flushed down the toilet. Common bathroom items that should be discarded in the trash include:

• Cosmetic Wipes: These wipes do not disintegrate in water and contribute to fatbergs and sewage treatment issues.
• Baby Wipes: Baby wipes are non-biodegradable and do not break down like toilet paper.
• Pads and Tampons: These items can easily block pipes, leading to serious plumbing problems. They should be disposed of in the trash.
• Dental Floss: Made of nylon or Teflon, dental floss can combine with other items to clog pipes and pumps.
• Cotton Swabs or Cotton Tips: These do not break down easily and are a common cause of drain blockages.
• Soap: Any leftover soap, including the last bit of a bar, should be disposed of in the trash.
• Hair: Hair can clog drains when combined with oils, grease, or other debris. It should not be flushed.

Preventing Fatberg Formation

To avoid fatbergs, refrain from using flushable wipes, or if necessary, never flush them down the toilet. For clogged toilets, it is advisable to call a professional plumber. In the event of a sewer backup, an emergency plumber should be contacted to address the situation promptly.