What Can't be Flushed and Why
Flushing these items down the toilet causes problems for our wastewater system and our environment.
These products don’t break down quickly enough in the wastewater system (or at all) and can end up clogging our sewers and your pipes. Even if they say they’re flushable, these products go in the garbage.
What if it says it’s flushable?
Products that say they’re flushable – like tampons and wipes – may make it down your toilet, but they might not make it through the sewer. There are currently no regulations to specify which products can be labelled “flushable”. Cities around the world are developing standards to more accurately label whether or not products are truly flushable. For now, put them in the trash (including wipes labelled “compostable” or “biodegradable”).
How to Dispose of Expired Medications
Not all medications are removed in the wastewater treatment process and, as a result, some chemicals may end up in the environment. Keep these pollutants out of the waterways by taking them back to a local pharmacy.
What Can be Flushed?
The only things that are okay to flush down the toilet are #1, #2, and toilet paper. Anything else wreaks havoc on the District sewer system.
Concept and creative courtesy of Metro Vancouver
Still Need Convincing?
Watch these videos to flush out any remaining doubts.