‘Flush responsibly’: Reminder ahead of World Toilet Day

EPCOR used World Toilet Day to remind people what should and shouldn't be flushed down the toilet.

Wednesday marks World Toilet Day and EPCOR is reminding Edmontonions what should and shouldn’t be flushed down the toilet.

Homeowners can protect their homes and their wallets by thinking before they flush.

EPCOR says only bodily wastes and toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet.

“Flushing responsibly helps prevent costly home plumbing repairs and protects the infrastructure we all depend on,” said Abhishek Bhargava, EPCOR’s senior manager.

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EPCOR operates the sewer system in Edmonton.

All water from sinks, toilets and bathtubs drain from the same network of pipes that connects to the city’s sewer system. Waste from homes and businesses are carried to the Gold Bar Wastewater Treatment Plant where it gets cleaned and returned to the river.

Items including tissues, wipes, dental floss, hair, cotton swabs, feminine hygiene products and paper towels don’t break down when flushed down the toilet.

“By tossing non-flushable items in the garbage instead of down the toilet, Edmontonions help keep our city’s sewer system running smoothly and avoid the damage a backup can cause in your home,” Bhargava added.

EPCOR also suggests avoiding flushing wipes labelled ‘flushable’ because it can still clog pipes.

Learn ways to properly dispose of household items on the EPCOR website.