How Flushing Facial Tissues Contributes to Sewer Blockages

Flushing facial tissues down the toilet may seem like a minor mistake, but over time, it can lead to severe sewer blockages. Unlike toilet paper, according to Trenchless Solutions are not designed to dissolve quickly in water. Instead, they can accumulate in pipes and sewage systems, leading to costly plumbing issues and environmental damage.

The Science Behind Sewer Blockages

Sewer systems are designed to handle human waste and toilet paper, which dissolve easily in water. However, when non-dissolving materials like facial tissues enter the system, they:

• Clump together in pipes – Over time, they stick to grease, hair, and other debris, forming large clogs.
• Restrict water flow – These clogs prevent water from flowing properly, leading to slow drainage and backups.
• Cause overflows – In severe cases, blocked sewers can cause untreated sewage to back up into homes and streets.

Why Facial Tissues Are Different from Toilet Paper

Facial tissues are made with stronger fibers and sometimes include lotions or antibacterial coatings, which prevent them from breaking down as quickly as toilet paper. Even though they may seem lightweight and soft, they are much more resistant to water, making them a major contributor to sewer blockages.

How Blocked Sewers Affect Communities

When sewer systems become clogged due to non-flushable materials like facial tissues, the impact goes beyond individual plumbing problems. Blocked sewers can lead to:

• Flooded streets – Heavy rain combined with blocked sewers can cause sewage to overflow into public spaces.
• Increased maintenance costs – Cities spend millions of dollars each year removing clogs from municipal sewer systems.
• Environmental pollution – Sewage backups can contaminate local rivers and lakes, harming wildlife and drinking water sources.

The Connection to Fatbergs

One of the biggest issues related to flushing non-biodegradable items like facial tissues is the formation of fatbergs. Fatbergs are massive, rock-like formations made up of grease, oil, wet wipes, and other materials that don’t break down in water. Facial tissues contribute to these blockages by providing a strong, fibrous base that holds the mass together. Removing fatbergs can cost cities thousands of dollars and require extensive labor and equipment.

Proper Disposal Methods

To prevent sewer blockages, always throw facial tissues in the trash. If they are free of chemicals or lotions, they can be composted as well. Never flush them down the toilet, even if you only use a small amount.

Conclusion

Flushing facial tissues may seem harmless, but it contributes to severe sewer blockages, environmental damage, and high maintenance costs. By disposing of tissues properly, you can help keep sewer systems running smoothly and protect your local community from plumbing disasters.