One of the most useful appliances that have found their way into most households is garbage disposals. With its ease of ease and enhanced functionality, you can get rid of the food scraps without any trouble. However, if you do not have one or there is any problem with the existing one, the toilet can seem very tempting. You might feel that little scraps of food are harmless and thus decide to flush them. But, the real question is – can you flush food down the toilet?
Should you Flush Food Down the Toilet?
No, you shouldn’t flush food down the toilet. The answer is relatively simple.
The pipe fittings that are connected to your toilet are narrow and are not made for flushing food scraps. As such, it is quite possible for foods to accumulate and form a clog. It can eventually lead to the backup of raw sewage into your home. Moreover, there are also some food items that decompose very slowly. In that case, the possibility of it forming a blockage is quite high.
Food Items that you Must Never Flush Down the Toilet
There are numerous food items that you must be careful to not flush down the toilet. Check out the list so that you can be more aware.
Hard foods
Did you know that there are food items that take more time than others to decompose? Yes! That’s right. These include corn cobs, animal bones, etc. They can clog the sewer pipes and even contribute to the formation of fatbergs.
Starchy foods
Starchy foods like potatoes also have the ability to block the sewer pipe and interfere with its functioning.
Fats and oils
There are several food substances that tend to harden when they cool down. Then, they block the sewer lines and disrupt the proper functioning. When these cooking fats accumulate and become hard, they also collect other debris. They eventually form fatbergs that can cause major issues. For example – butter, bacon fat, etc.
Grains
Some food items such as oats, rice, etc., swell upon the absorption of water. When they expand, they can block the sewer line and cause massive issues.
Other Things that you Cannot Flush Down the Toilet
There are various other things that you cannot flush down the toilet. Take a look at some of them listed here.
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Napkins - ·
Facial tissues - ·
Hair - ·
Baby wipes - ·
Dental floss - ·
Swiffers - ·
Eggshells - ·
Sanitary napkins - ·
Coffee grounds - ·
Diapers - ·
Plastic - ·
Bandages - ·
Paper towel - ·
Medicines
Alternative Ways to Deal with the Food Leftover
There are several alternative ways that you can deal with the food items other than flushing them down the toilet. Keep in mind that the toilet is not actually a dustbin!
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In the case of liquid-based foods such as cooking fats, etc., you can pour them into a plastic bag and then put them in the dustbin. - ·
Instead of throwing the scraps away, you can simply put them in the fridge to use later. - ·
You can use the food scraps as compost. Check which ones are perfect for compostable scraps and separate accordingly. You can either opt for the city’s compost program or you can start your compost. - ·
For the bad-smelling food scraps, you can put them in a plastic bag and store them in a freezer till you actually toss them out in the bin.
Having Issues with the Toilet? Get Professional Assistance Now!
There are varied reasons that can lead to problems with the toilet. It could be a clog, or it could be damage to any of the components regardless of the issue, you must fix it immediately. Delaying the problem will only make it worse with time. Firstly, you can try some DIY tips. But, if that doesn't work, getting in touch with toilet plumbing experts is the best solution.
SOS Plumbers provides a wide array of plumbing services. Our team of skilled plumbers, technicians, and gas fitters has the necessary expertise, and technical training needed to handle different situations. Moreover, we also use professional-grade tools and materials and opt for the best solutions. Furthermore, we charge attractive price rates and are available at all times. Just give us a call, and we will be there immediately!
