How to Dissolve Baby Wipes in the Toilet

You’re not the only person who has searched to see if it’s possible to flush baby wipes. It is a common misconception that baby wipes can be flushed. Flushing baby wipes can lead to a variety of plumbing issues and quickly impact the safety and comfort of your home, which is why it is so incredibly important to never flush baby wipes down the toilet.

The experienced team at your local Mr. Rooter® Plumbing recommends only flushing toilet paper and bodily fluids down your toilet. Here are some common child-related items that should only be disposed of in a wastebasket:

• All types of wipes
• Diapers
• Cotton swabs
• Tissues
• Paper towels
• Band-Aids

Can You Dissolve Baby Wipes in Toilet?

Do not attempt to dissolve baby wipes in your toilet. Wipes are designed to be durable, which means it takes a long time for them to break down in water. Their durability means they do a great job of keeping your baby clean, but it also makes them unsuitable for flushing.

Toilet paper is truly the only item, in addition to bodily fluids, that can be flushed, as toilet paper is specially designed to break up easily and quickly after being flushed down the toilet. This specific design was created with your plumbing and home in mind.

What Happens When You Flush Baby Wipes?

Flushing baby wipes can quickly block sewer pipes and cause major plumbing problems in your community’s sewer or your home’s septic tank system. Fatbergs are just one example of plumbing issues caused by flushing inappropriate items, like wipes. Fatbergs are congealed masses of grease and debris that form in sewer systems. They can impact entire communities and cause large-scale sewer damage, or create major problems in your septic tank system.

If you accidentally toss a wet wipe or foreign item in the toilet, the only course of action is to try and fish it out of the toilet. In some scenarios, a metal hanger can work to get a good grip on wipes. By doing your part, you are proactively protecting your home and community from blockages and other drain and sewage issues.

How to Protect Your Toilet and Home

If you are looking for ways to protect your home, drains, or toilets from the children in your life, Mr. Handyman, a fellow Neighborly brand, created a list of how to childproof your home. By adding toilet locks or making sure to cover your drains, you can ensure you are the only person in your home putting the proper items down the drain or toilet.

If you have any questions regarding other safety matters for your home, the Mr. Rooter Plumbing team is prepared to answer them for you. Our team can help you find out everything from what temperature should your hot water heater be set at, especially with children, to any possible plumbing issue questions you may have.

Trust Mr. Rooter Plumbing for Your Plumbing Needs

If you are experiencing clogging or drain backups, call your local Mr. Rooter experts or request a job estimate online. Our team is on standby around the clock to help with your plumbing needs.