Don’t flush wipes, urges RI DEM

Dispose of wipes-even those labelled flushable- in the trash, department says

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE)- The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management issued a statement urging residents not to flush disinfectant wipes, including baby wipes.

Even wipes labeled “flushable” can cause havoc in sewer systems, the department warned. All wipes should disposed of in the trash.

The DEM said the Burrillville Sewer Commission had equipment that was clogged at its wastewater treatment facility and pump stations. Staff had to be called up after-hours to ensure there wouldn’t be sewage overflows.

Problems can arise from flushed wipes regardless of whether toilets are connected to a public sewer system or an onsite wastewater system, such as a septic tank. Because wipes don’t break down the same way as toilet paper, they can clog pipes, leading to back-ups in basements and pump station failures, the department said.

For more information on what should stay out of toilets, the DEM suggests taking a look at the list on the Water Environment Federation’s website, called “It’s a Toilet, Not a Trash Can!”.

©WLNE-TV/ABC 6