Conserving Water Indoors
Learn simple ways to save water indoors while supporting reliable water resources across Hampton Roads.
Learn More
What Not To Flush
;%20}%20%3c/style%3e%3c/defs%3e%3cg%20id='c'%20data-name='Layer%201'%3e%3cpath%20class='d'%20d='M1308,389.62c0-130.65-108.28-246.14-274.2-316.6-13.54-5.83-27.31-11.2-41.54-16.33-4.43-1.63-9.1-3.03-13.77-4.67-13.3-4.67-26.84-8.87-40.61-12.83-8.87-2.57-17.73-4.9-26.84-7.23-4.43-1.17-9.1-2.1-13.77-3.27C821.67,10.5,739.76,0,653.18,0,292.4-.23,0,173.81,0,388.45c0,118.52,89.38,224.67,229.86,296.06,113.88,57.86,261.6,92.86,422.85,92.86,75.38,0,147.49-7.7,214.93-21.7,0,0,.7,0,1.87-.47,2.1-.47,4.2-.93,6.3-1.4,2.8-.47,6.07-.7,9.8-.7,11.43,0,27.3,3.5,44.57,15.86,46.91,40.36,107.12,66.03,173.15,66.03,15.64,0,23.8-1.87,31.5-3.03-52.97-14.46-105.01-65.79-58.34-145.82,141.42-71.39,231.5-177.78,231.5-296.76v.23Z'/%3e%3c/g%3e%3c/svg%3e)
Why It Matters
Flushing the wrong items can lead to clogged pipes, broken pumps, sewer backups and expensive repairs. If untreated sewage backs up into homes, neighborhoods or streets, it can also reach storm drains and local waterways.
Untreated sewage can increase bacteria and nitrogen levels in the water, which can harm aquatic life, contribute to beach closures and affect local seafood safety.
Only Flush What Belongs
Our sewer systems are designed to safely move waste away from homes and businesses. Anything else can create problems in home plumbing, municipal sewer lines and wastewater treatment systems.
Even products labeled as flushable do not always break down like toilet paper. Wipes and other non-flushable items are regularly found in clogged pipes and broken pumps, leading to service interruptions and costly repairs.
Good to know:
- Items labeled flushable can still clog pipes and damage pumps
- Plumbing clogs at home are usually the homeowner’s responsibility
- Municipal sewer repairs can affect utility costs for the larger community
- When in doubt, throw it out instead of flushing it
Trash It, Don’t Flush It
The easiest way to protect your pipes is to keep a trash can in the bathroom and use it for anything that does not belong in the toilet. Small habits at home can help prevent clogs, protect wastewater systems and keep local waterways cleaner.
Related Links
No Wipes in Pipes
Learn why wipes should never be flushed and how proper disposal helps prevent clogs, backups and sewer damage.
Learn More
Lead Water Pipes
Find tips for protecting pipes, preventing winter damage and understanding how pipe safety supports reliable water service.
Learn More
Winterizing Your Pipes
Your home’s plumbing system plays an important role in protecting water quality and preventing water loss – especially during colder months or in older homes.
Learn More