Are Flushable Wipes to Blame for Septic System Failure?

Increasingly, angry and frustrated consumers report that flushable wipes are costing them some serious cash due to plumbing problems. Despite manufacturers’ claims that wipes are indeed flushable and biodegradable, consumers are crying foul.

Wipes from popular brands like Kleenex Cottonelle, Wet Ones and Charmin have all been linked to toilet clogs. Have you experienced a similar problem? Even if your plumbing is okay right now, given the harrowing accounts of toilet clogs, septic system failure and sewage backups – including a 15-ton mass in London – those flushable wipes may not be such a “convenient” personal hygiene product after all.

Attorneys Investigating Connection Between Flushable Wipes and Plumbing Failures

Attorneys at the law firm Morgan & Morgan are investigating a potential lawsuit on behalf of consumers who used flushable wipes and experienced plumbing problems. Despite wipes from leading brands often being labeled as “flushable”, “biodegradable” and “sewer and septic safe”, the firm says that’s not the case. “Even if the wipes are used sparingly, they can still cause plumbing problems”

Consumerist reported on this exact problem in February 2014, when The Consumerist reader Emery described his recent plumbing nightmare after using one wipe per day for three days. “ I called the plumber and he came out with his plumber snake and told me there was something that look like diapers. It was the three cleaning cloths.”

Despite Cottonelle’s claim that the wipes disintegrate, consumers like Emery have been stuck footing the bill for toilet clogs, expensive plumbing problems and septic system failure. That begs this question: are flushable wipe manufacturers knowingly selling a product that causes septic system failure?

Wipe manufacturers adamantly deny these claims. Kimberly-Clark, for example, says the company conducted extensive research before bringing the product to market, even using a “slosh box” to stimulate the wipe’s journey through the sewer system.

As reported by The Consumerist, the company issues a statement saying, “When used as directed, our wipes clear properly maintained toilets, drainlines, sewers and pumps, and are compatible with on-site septic and municipal treatment.” In effect, Kimberly-Clark is implying that if the wipes don’t flush, it could be the consumers’ fault for failing to maintain their plumbing and septic system.

It’s not just consumers that are facing plumbing problems because of flushable wipes. "“There is an enormous cost to wastewater system clogs. Fatbergs and other clogs caused by wipes can cost millions associated with sewer backup cleanup, clog removal, and equipment repair each year, and ultimately, utilities have to pass on this cost to customers through their water bills,” said Dadgostar. Despite manufacturers' claims otherwise, wipes are increasingly connected to toilet clogs and septic problems.

Hygienic Cleansing Lotion Safe & Effective Flushable Wipe Alternative

An effective flushable wipe alternative is a hygienic cleansing lotion such as Soothe ‘n Wipe. It's safe, helps you soften your toilet paper and won’t cause toilet clogs or septic system failure. Hygienic cleansing lotion offers all the cooling, soothing benefits of flushable wipes without leaving behind a mess.

Have you had a toilet clog or sewer problem from flushable wipes? Share your experience below.