Can You Flush Hair Down The Toilet? The Absolute Truth About What Happens Next!

Oleh Mandy Wehner June 03, 2023 Post a Comment

We all have that one friend who flushes everything down the toilet, from cotton buds to hair. They might tell you it’s convenient and easy, but is it really? The question is, can you flush hair down the toilet? Is it safe for your plumbing system or will it cause a major headache? In this post, we’re going to dive into the truth about flushing hair down the toilet.

Can You Flush Hair Down The Toilet?

The Short Answer

No, you shouldn’t flush hair down the toilet. Hair doesn’t dissolve in water like toilet paper does, and it can cause serious clogs in your pipes.

The Long Answer

When you flush hair down the toilet, it doesn’t just disappear. Instead, it gets caught in the pipes and s to accumulate over time. This can lead to slow drains, clogged pipes, and even sewage backups.

Even if you only flush a small amount of hair down the toilet, it can still cause problems. Over time, the hair can create a tangled mess that grows larger and larger until it completely blocks the pipe.

If you want to avoid these issues, it’s best to dispose of your hair in the trash can instead. It might take a little extra effort, but it’s worth it to avoid the costly and messy consequences of a clogged drain.

Why You Shouldn't Flush Hair Down The Toilet

Pipe Clogs

As mentioned above, flushing hair down the toilet can cause serious clogs in your pipes. These clogs can be difficult to remove and can lead to expensive plumbing repairs.

Environmental Concerns

Flushing hair down the toilet can also have negative environmental impacts. When hair ends up in the sewer system, it can mix with other materials and create blockages. This can lead to sewage backups, which can be harmful to the environment and public health.

Costly Plumbing Repairs

If you flush hair down the toilet and it causes a clog, you may need to call in a professional plumber to fix the problem. This can be expensive, especially if the clog is severe. In some cases, you may even need to replace your entire plumbing system.

Alternatives to Flushing Hair Down The Toilet

Use a Drain Cover

One way to avoid flushing hair down the toilet is to use a drain cover. These covers catch hair before it can go down the drain and cause a clog. They’re inexpensive and easy to install, making them a great solution for anyone who wants to keep their pipes clear.

Dispose of Hair in the Trash

Another alternative to flushing hair down the toilet is to dispose of it in the trash. You can collect your hair in a small container and throw it away when it’s full. It might be a little more work than flushing it down the toilet, but it’s much safer for your plumbing system.

What Happens When You Flush Hair Down the Toilet?

Short-Term Effects

In the short term, flushing hair down the toilet may not seem like a big deal. You might notice that the water drains a little slower than usual, but it’s unlikely to cause any major problems right away.

Long-Term Effects

Over time, however, flushing hair down the toilet can have serious consequences. As the hair accumulates in the pipes, it can create a tangled mess that grows larger and larger. This can eventually lead to a complete blockage of the pipe, which can be difficult and expensive to fix.

Can You Flush Other Things Down the Toilet?

Toilet Paper

Toilet paper is designed to dissolve in water, making it safe to flush down the toilet. However, you should only flush a reasonable amount at a time to avoid clogs.

Wet Wipes

Wet wipes are not designed to dissolve in water like toilet paper is. Flushing them down the toilet can cause serious clogs in your pipes.

Feminine Products

Feminine products, such as tampons and pads, should never be flushed down the toilet. They can cause major clogs and damage to your plumbing system.

In conclusion, flushing hair down the toilet is never a good idea. It can cause serious clogs in your pipes and lead to costly plumbing repairs. Instead, use a drain cover or dispose of your hair in the trash. By taking these simple steps, you can keep your plumbing system clear and avoid any messy headaches down the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I flush pet hair down the toilet?

No, you shouldn’t flush pet hair down the toilet. Just like human hair, pet hair doesn’t dissolve in water and can cause serious clogs in your pipes.

2. What should I do if I accidentally flush hair down the toilet?

If you accidentally flush hair down the toilet, don’t panic. If the hair hasn’t caused a clog yet, it’s unlikely to cause any major problems. However, if you notice slow drains or other signs of a clog, it’s best to call in a professional plumber to fix the problem.

3. Can hair cause sewage backups?

Yes, hair can contribute to sewage backups. When hair gets caught in the sewer system, it can mix with other materials and create blockages that can lead to sewage backups.

4. Can I use chemical drain cleaners to remove hair clogs?

While chemical drain cleaners can be effective at removing some clogs, they’re not always the best solution for hair clogs. In fact, some chemical drain cleaners can actually make the problem worse by creating a hard mass that’s even more difficult to remove.

5. Can I flush hair dye down the toilet?

No, you shouldn’t flush hair dye down the toilet. Hair dye can be harmful to the environment and can cause serious clogs in your pipes.

6. Will a plunger help remove a hair clog?

In some cases, a plunger can help remove a hair clog. However, if the clog is severe, you may need to call in a professional plumber to fix the problem.

7. How often should I clean my drains to prevent clogs?

It’s a good idea to clean your drains regularly to prevent clogs from forming. You can use a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to naturally clean your drains and keep them clear.

8. Should I pour hot water down the drain to remove hair clogs?

Hot water can help break up hair clogs, but it’s not always effective. If you have a severe clog, it’s best to call in a professional plumber to fix the problem.

9. Can I use a drain snake to remove hair clogs?

Yes, a drain snake can be an effective tool for removing hair clogs. However, if you’re not comfortable using a drain snake, it’s best to call in a professional plumber to fix the problem.

10. How can I tell if my plumbing system has a hair clog?

Some signs of a hair clog include slow drains, gurgling sounds coming from your pipes, and foul odors coming from your drains. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to call in a professional plumber to fix the problem.