Do Not Flush Wipes

Help us prevent pipe clogs, backups and pump failure.

When you flush the toilet, sewage goes to one of three treatment plants located in the city of Clearwater.

Do Not Flush Wipes

Just because an item is marketed as “flushable” does not mean it should be flushed down the toilet.

Wipes do not break down like toilet paper does in the sewer pipes. Instead, they hold their shape and can cause dangerous blockages and sanitary sewer overflows, which can affect the sewer system and increase maintenance costs. 

Items that are flushed down toilets and don’t break down must be physically removed during the treatment process. While this might not seem like a big deal, it costs the city (and its taxpayers) a lot of money to maintain utility equipment and to correct problems caused by trash in the sewer system.

Other Items That Should Go in the Trash

• Dental floss
• Hair
• Tampons, applicators and personal hygiene products
• Wipes (all kinds, including ones marketed as flushable and non-flushable)
• Bandages and wound dressings
• Cleaning supplies (disposable toilet brush heads, sponges, etc.)
• Cotton balls
• Diapers
• Facial tissues
• Make-up removers and cloths
• Medications
• Paper towels
• Plastic wrappers
• Towelettes
• Cotton swabs

How You Can Help

The only non-natural item that should be flushed down the toilet is toilet paper, which is formulated to break down appropriately. Remember to dispose of trash correctly. Place your trashcan close to the toilet for easy disposal of items such as wipes, dental floss and hair. Trash should never go down the toilet.