The Difference Between Flushable Wipes and Baby Wipes: What You Need to Know Spokane Valley, Washington

The Difference Between Flushable Wipes and Baby Wipes: What You Need to Know

At Gold Seal Plumbing, we know that not all plumbing issues are created equal. One recurring topic of confusion for homeowners involves “flushable” wipes and baby wipes. You’ve probably seen them on the shelves and maybe even used them, but are they really as flushable as advertised? Let’s dive into the differences between these two products and how they can affect your plumbing.

Flushable Wipes vs. Baby Wipes: What’s the Big Difference?

On the surface, flushable wipes and baby wipes might look the same, but they are far from identical when it comes to how they behave in your plumbing system. Understanding the differences is key to keeping your pipes clear and avoiding costly repairs.

1. Material Composition

• Flushable Wipes: These wipes are often marketed as safe for your plumbing because they are designed to break down more easily in water. They are made of fibers that can disperse when flushed.
• Baby Wipes: Baby wipes, on the other hand, are made from stronger, more durable materials like plastic fibers, which don’t break down in water. They are designed to be tough enough to clean a baby’s skin without tearing, which makes them a nightmare for your pipes.

2. Water Solubility

• Flushable Wipes: While they may be labeled “flushable,” that doesn’t always mean they disintegrate quickly. Some wipes may still take time to break down, especially in older or narrow pipes. If they don’t dissolve fast enough, they can contribute to blockages.
• Baby Wipes: Baby wipes are not designed to break down at all in water. Once they’re flushed, they can easily get caught in bends, joints, or other tricky parts of your plumbing. Over time, this can lead to serious clogs, backups, and even damage to your septic system.

3. Impact on Plumbing Systems

• Flushable Wipes: Even though flushable wipes are designed to break apart, many plumbers—including us here at Gold Seal Plumbing—have seen cases where these wipes don’t dissolve as expected. When flushed in large quantities or used in older plumbing systems, they can still cause clogs.
• Baby Wipes: These wipes should never be flushed. They don’t disintegrate and can accumulate in pipes, eventually creating a mass of trapped debris. If this happens, you’ll likely need professional plumbing services to clear the blockage and prevent further damage.

The Hidden Dangers of “Flushable” Wipes

Even with flushable wipes, the keyword here is caution. While manufacturers claim they are safe for plumbing, studies have shown that many flushable wipes don’t degrade quickly enough to prevent problems in municipal sewer systems or home septic tanks.

Wipes can also mix with other materials in the sewer, like grease and debris, forming what’s known as “fatbergs”—large, stubborn blockages that can wreak havoc on plumbing and wastewater systems. Over time, this can lead to costly repairs not only for homeowners but also for city infrastructure.

What Should You Flush?

The general rule we recommend is simple: only flush toilet paper and human waste. Even products labeled as flushable wipes can cause problems. If you need to use wipes, consider throwing them in the trash instead of flushing them down the toilet. It’s a small step that can save you from major headaches down the line.

Protect Your Plumbing

At Gold Seal Plumbing, we’ve seen it all when it comes to plumbing mishaps caused by improper flushing. To keep your plumbing in top shape:

1. Stick to Toilet Paper: It’s designed to break down quickly and won’t harm your pipes.
2. Be Cautious with “Flushable” Wipes: If you use them, limit the number you flush and be aware of potential risks.
3. Never Flush Baby Wipes: Dispose of these in the trash to avoid damaging your plumbing.

Final Thoughts

While the convenience of wipes—flushable or otherwise—can be tempting, they may not always be the best choice for your plumbing. If you ever run into problems or have concerns about clogs, leaks, or backups, you can count on Gold Seal Plumbing to help you out.

We’re here 24/7 to keep your plumbing running smoothly! Give us a call anytime for advice, maintenance, or emergency services. It’s what we’ve been doing for over 50 years, and we’re proud to serve our Spokane and Coeur d’Alene communities with the best in plumbing care.