News

Actions

Great Lakes Water Authority: 'Flushable' disinfectant wipes are not biodegradable

Women flushed $120,000 down three toilets, investigators say
Posted at 2:50 PM, Mar 17, 2020
and last updated 2020-03-17 20:38:51-04

(WXYZ) — As more people are staying home during the COVID-19 outbreak, the Great Lakes Water Authority is reminding everyone to be mindful of what they flush down the toilet.

Flushable wipes are not biodegradable, GLWA says, and can create sewer blockages that lead to backups and overflows.

GLWA says to stick to the three Ps: Pee, Poo and (toilet) Paper. Never flush personal hygiene or disinfectant wipes down the toilet.

GLWA says never flush the following items:

· Baby wipes or cleaning wipes
· Tampons and sanitary products
· Condoms
· Tissues
· Paper towels
· Dental floss
· Cotton balls and swabs
· Cat litter
· Prescription drugs
· Over-the-counter medicines
· Cigarette butts