Housekeeping · Bathroom habits

Wet wipes go in the bin, not the toilet—even when labeled flushable

Wet wipes and hygiene items can clog drains and sewers. Use a bathroom bin rather than flushing them, even when the package says flushable.

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Thames Water advises placing even so-called flushable wipes in a bin; the US EPA says toilets and septic systems are not garbage bins. Follow local waste-sorting rules for the disposal container.

Your try-it-at-home checklist

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Place a small lidded waste bin beside the toilet so wipes can be discarded immediately.
Agree on a simple household rule: only human waste and ordinary toilet paper should be flushed.
Put wet wipes in the bin even when marked 'flushable' or 'biodegradable'; utilities warn these can contribute to blockages.
Keep sanitary products, cotton swabs, floss, diapers and hair out of toilets too. Use local waste-disposal guidance.
Empty the bin as needed and wash hands. Keep waste inaccessible to children and pets.
If drainage slows or wastewater backs up, stop using the fixture and contact building management or a plumber. Do not dismantle shared drainage systems.

Your try-it-at-home checklist

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