What not to put down the drain?

What You Should Never Put Down the Drain

It’s easy to assume that if something goes into a sink or toilet, it’ll simply vanish down the pipes. But not everything belongs down the drain—even if it seems harmless. Flushing or pouring the wrong items can lead to clogged pipes, sewer backups, and environmental harm.

Sanitary products, diapers, baby wipes, and paper towels top the list of no-gos. Even wipes labeled "flushable" often don’t break down quickly and can form massive blockages in sewer systems. Similarly, facial tissues aren’t designed to dissolve like toilet paper and should always go in the trash.

Another major culprit? Fats, oils, and grease (FOG). Pouring leftover cooking oil down the kitchen sink might seem convenient, but it cools and solidifies in pipes, creating stubborn clogs. Instead, let it cool and dispose of it in the trash—or better yet, recycle it if your community offers that service.

Don’t flush medications, either. Both prescription and over-the-counter drugs can contaminate water supplies and harm aquatic life. Many pharmacies offer take-back programs for safe disposal.

Kitty litter is another flushable myth. Most types clump and swell, causing blockages. And never pour household hazardous materials—like paint, chemicals, or pesticides—down the drain. These pollute waterways and damage treatment systems.

Even common kitchen scraps like coffee grounds, eggshells, and food waste can accumulate and trap other debris. Use a compost bin instead. And while it might seem trivial, hair and dental floss don’t break down and easily tangle into obstructive masses.

The rule of thumb? If it’s not water, urine, feces, or toilet paper—don’t flush it. When in doubt, throw it out. A little extra effort at the sink can save big headaches—and costly repairs—down the line.