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Tampons and Toilets Don’t Mix: Avoid Flushing Tampons it Can Be a Costly Mistake

“Can you flush a tampon?” is a question that has plagued humankind ever since Eve got her first period (or at least since tampons were invented). While the siren call of a quick flush might seem irresistible, resist you must!

The experts in the plumbing industry and council sewage treatment plants have spoken: no flushing tampons, please. Even the signs in public restrooms agree, so let’s explore why flushing tampons is a big no-no.

Did you know that around 300 million tampons are sold in Australia annually? That’s a whole lot of tampons! Yet, many women are baffled to learn that flushing them is a big mistake.

At Whywait Plumbing, we’re all about healthy plumbing systems, and one of the most common issues we face is the dreaded tampon flush. So let’s dive into why it’s a bad idea, and you should avoid flushing tampons.

Tampons: The Tiny, Unassuming Plumbing Wreckers

Tampons are designed to be absorbent, making them perfect for their intended job. But when flushed, these little guys become drain-blocking nightmares. So save yourself the hassle, wrap them in toilet paper, and toss them in a dedicated sanitary waste bin. Your drains will thank you.

Sewage Systems Say “No Thanks” to Tampons

Your home’s sewage system is designed to transport water, human waste, and toilet paper. This exclusive party does not invite tampons, sanitary pads, and other personal hygiene products. When they crash, they cause drain blockages, clogs, overflows, and significant damage to sewage pumps, septic tanks and equipment

Eco-Unfriendly Tampons and Mother Nature’s Disapproval

Flushing tampons not only wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing system, but it also upsets Mother Nature. Tampons can take years to break down in the environment, polluting the waters and bothering aquatic life. So do our ecosystems a favour and toss tampons in the rubbish or disposal bin.

Biodegradable tampons may be better for the environment, but they still take months to break down, meaning they’re no friend to your drains or sewage treatment system.

A Sewer Backup: The Nightmare No One Wants

One tampon won’t block your drain, but over time, they pile up and form a pipe-clogging mass. Throw in some tree roots and debris, and you have a recipe for blocked drain repairs. In addition, a blocked main sewerage line can result in raw sewage backing into your home – nobody wants that.

Avoid costly repairs and maintenance

Flushing tampons can lead to an expensive headache. Blocked toilets, blocked drains, damaged sewage systems, and sewer backups require professional plumbing services to resolve. Save yourself the trouble and expense by adequately disposing of tampons, sanitary pads, and other sanitary products in a waste bin.

Avoid Flushing Tampons Here is The Right Way to Dispose of Tampons

While flushing tampons might feel like an eco-friendly choice, it’s not. The solid waste from sewage systems, including tampons, eventually ends up in landfills. Since tampons can’t be recycled, tossing them in the rubbish is the best option.

Are you caught in a public restroom with no bin in sight? Fear not! Here are some alternative disposal methods:

  • Carry a small, sealable plastic bag for discreet disposal. Stash the used tampon in the bag and toss it later when a proper waste bin is available.
  • Opt for eco-friendly, biodegradable tampons, which break down more quickly in the environment. Of course, they still shouldn’t be flushed, but they’ll be kinder to the planet in landfills.
  • Consider reusable menstrual products like menstrual cups, cloth pads, or period underwear. These sustainable options reduce waste and can save you money in the long run.

To Flush or Not to Flush: A Reality Check on the Dangers of Tampon Disposal

At Whywait Plumbing, our mission is to keep your plumbing system in tip-top shape while providing a few smiles along the way.

Avoid flushing tampons and other sanitary products down the toilet. It is a recipe for disaster, leading to blockages, costly repairs, and even environmental damage. So do your part by disposing of tampons in a dedicated waste bin, and remember that a happy plumbing system is a tampon-free one.

If you find yourself facing plumbing issues – tampon-related or otherwise – our professional team at Whywait Plumbing is here to save the day with fast, reliable service and a smile.

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