The City of Windsor has reminded residents that the toilet is not the ideal place to dispose of "flushable" wipes.
Although household product companies have marketed wipes as flushable, the City is saying there is no scientific evidence backing that claim. It has reported a rise in sewer issues caused by their disposal.
The City has cited studies that show "flushable" wipes do not break down as effectively as regular toilet paper. If you have enough of them in the sewer system, it can cause clogs and blockages that may result in backups and costly repairs for property owners.
Karina Richters, Supervisor of Environmental Sustainability and Climate Change for the City of Windsor, is telling people to put their wipes in the trash can, not the toilet.
"We want to empower individuals to make environmentally conscious choices," said Richters. "By refraining from flushing wipes, we can collectively contribute to the well-being of our communities and protect the environment."
The City also said the same goes for diapers, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products. Expired or unused medication should also not be flushed down the toilet but returned to the pharmacist for safe disposal.
Door hangers have begun appearing at homes near places where sewer maintenance has taken place.
For complete information about the safe disposal of personal care products, visit the City of Windsor's official website.
