Wipes Clog Pipes

A plea from Gregory’s Wastewater Staff: Don’t flush your disposable wipes!

 
Gregory, SD - Disposable wipes have been causing problems in communities around the country and Gregory is no different. Wipes — used for changing diapers, personal hygiene, housecleaning, and more — cause major problems when flushed down toilets. Though many of these products are labeled “flushable” or “septic safe,” they are anything but. The same goes for facial tissues, baby wipes, paper towels and other products.
 
Because they don’t break down the way toilet paper does, disposable wipes clog homeowner and municipal sewer pipes, put stress on community wastewater collection and treatment equipment, and cause cities to spend thousands on premature equipment repair and replacement. Wipes snag on any imperfection in sewer pipes, catch passing debris and grease, and create a “ball” that will grow to plug the pipe. They also get drawn into sewer-line and wastewater treatment plant pumps and clog and damage them.
 
The increased use of disposable wipes has been causing headaches for our public works employees. The City of Gregory Wastewater Staff are asking that if residents do use wipes, please put them in the trash. Don’t flush them!