COVID-19 Resources

Don’t flush your disposable wipes!

Disposable wipes have been causing problems in communities around the country and the Lakehaven Water & Sewer District is no different. Wipes — used for changing diapers, personal hygiene, housecleaning, and more — cause major problems when flushed down toilets. Though many of these products are labeled “flushable” or “septic safe,” they are anything but. Just because a product CAN be flushed doesn’t mean it SHOULD be flushed.

Because they don’t break down the way toilet paper does, disposable wipes clog homeowner and municipal sewer pipes, put stress on community wastewater collection and treatment equipment, and cause sewer districts to spend thousands on premature equipment repair and replacement. Wipes snag on any imperfection in sewer pipes, catch passing debris and grease, and create a “ball” that will grow to plug the pipe. They also get drawn into sewer-line and wastewater treatment plant pumps and clog and damage them.

The ONLY product safe for flushing is toilet paper. We are asking that if residents do use wipes, please put them in the trash. Don’t flush them!

In addition to the wipes problem, customers are also flushing other trash such as: paper towels, facial tissue, diapers, menstrual products, dental floss, swabs, etc. that are also problematic for sewer districts.

The solution is simple – if you provide a trash can conveniently located near toilets, you can help make sure these troublesome products are disposed of properly. (Be sure to bag this waste to protect collection workers.)