While some products may be advertised as "safe for septic systems and sewer" or "flushable", they cause many problems for Boise’s water renewal facilities.
Flushables
What You Shouldn't Flush Down Your Toilet
Don't Flush
These items don't break down like toilet paper and will clog household pipes, public sewer lift station pumps, and cause sewer backups onto streets, businesses and homes:
- Diapers (cloth, disposable, "flushable")
- Facial tissues, cotton balls, swabs and pads
- Cleaning wipes of ANY kind (baby wipes, disinfectant wipes, moist wipes, etc.)
- Toilet bowl scrub pads
- Napkins (paper or cloth), paper towels
- Dental floss
- Hair
- Sanitary napkins, tampons, condoms or any non-organic material
- Wash cloths, towels, rags (any cloth item)
- Kitty litter
Clogged pipes and pumps cost money to repair. In the case of lift station pumps, clogged pumps require significant maintenance to ensure they are working properly. If they can't be repaired, they must be replaced, which costs even more money. The solution to this expensive problem is to make sure that only toilet paper is flushed down the toilet.
Send a Message to Public Works
Thank you for your interest in Public Works. Please fill out the form below and a representative will be in touch with you.