What NOT to Flush

Municipal wastewater collection systems and treatment plants are designed to transport and treat household sewage and associated organic contaminants using physical, chemical, and biological processes. Unfortunately, our society has become accustomed to flushing many other waste products down the drain which end up creating problems in the public sewer system, clogging lift station pumps, or even passing through the entire treatment system only to end up the environment.

For more information on these contaminants, including proper disposal, please click on the individual topic tabs to the left.

Toilets Are Not Trashcans Opens in new window


Items NOT to be Flushed:

  • Baby wipes (even those labeled flushable)
  • Bandages
  • Cigarette butts
  • Cleaning wipes, facial wipes, and makeup removal pads
  • Condoms
  • Cotton swabs and cotton balls
  • Dental floss
  • Disposable diapers and nursing pads
  • Disposable toilet brushes
  • Fat, oil, and grease (FOG)
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Hair
  • Household hazardous wastes (paint, oil chemicals, fuel, etc.)
  • Kitty litter (even brands labeled as flushable)
  • Needles / syringes
  • Over the counter drugs / medicines
  • Paper towels, rags, tissues
  • Personal care products
  • Prescription drugs / medications

For a quick and easy reference, download or print our guide about What Not to Flush and Fat, Oil and Grease (FOG).