We all learned the basics as kids: go potty (in the toilet!), wipe, flush, wash our hands. But somewhere along the way, it seems some of us (especially parents!) forgot a crucial part of that equation: what exactly is okay to flush.

Surprisingly, our survey data revealed 60% of people with children in their household are more prone to flushing non-flushable items down the toilet than those without. Sometimes, it seems, parents can be even worse rule-breakers than kids! But when it’s your home plumbing, community health and wastewater infrastructure on the line, responsible flushing habits are more important than ever.

That’s why, for Flush Smart Month 2025, we’re taking a playful approach and going back to the basics with potty training … for grown-ups!

Because, let’s be real — life happens. Messes get made. Responsible flushing isn’t exactly top of mind for most of us. We could all use a gentle reminder, right?

We teamed up with some popular online personalities to create catchy messages about flushing smart that will stick in our heads, so the next time we flush, we’ll do so smartly. From cute jingles, to earworm-worthy tunes to family- friendly skits, we took a multi-prong approach at spreading the Flush Smart message.

Consider this your refresher course on flushing responsibly. We’ll leave you with our top toilet tips for grown-ups:

1. Look For the Do Not Flush Symbol!
Baby wipes, makeup wipes, cleaning wipes and other common household wipes are made to be durable — which is great for cleaning up messes, but bad for going down the toilet. The long, often plastic fibers in these wipes stick together in your pipes and can contribute to major damage and costly repairs — or even sewage backups in your home, which could pose health risks for your family.

That’s why Rule #1 is to check all wipes packaging for the Do Not Flush symbol and follow the disposal instructions.

2. But Don’t Fear — Some Wipes are OK to Flush.
That’s right. Wipes labeled as “flushable” undergo rigorous flushability tests to ensure they do break apart in water and don’t contribute to clogs. These wipes are made of short, plant-based fibers that break down easily in water. Just be sure to check the package for further disposal instructions.

3. Bathroom Trash Can is Friend, Not Foe.
Keep a trash can by the toilet for the easy, simple disposal of Do Not Flush wipes and other items that should not be flushed (like paper towels, period products, cotton swabs and more).

Pro tip: Make sure your trash can has a lid to prevent unpleasant smells or unwelcome scavengers (we’re talking to you, Buddy).

4. If it’s Not Human Waste, Toilet Paper or a Flushable Wipe, DON’T FLUSH IT!

This includes:

  • Baby Wipes, Makeup Wipes, and Cleaning Wipes: Feature the Do Not Flush symbol on packaging and always go in the trash, not the toilet.
  • Paper Towels and Tissues: They may be paper, but they’re not designed to be flushed and can cause
    clogs.
  • Cotton Balls, Cotton Swabs and Dental Floss: These don’t break down and can tangle in pipes.
  • Fats, Oils and Grease (FOG): Never flush these or pour them down the drain.
  • Food Scraps: Even small amounts can contribute to clogs.
  • Medications and Syringes: Dispose of these properly through designated programs.
  • Tampons and Menstrual Pads: Always dispose of these in the trash.
  • Hair/Hair Weaves: Hair is a major clog culprit.

5. Remember the Consequences.
Flushing the wrong things down the toilet can lead to costly plumbing repairs in your home, health issues for your family or community, wastewater infrastructure damage and harm to the environment. And yes, even just one incorrectly flushed non-flushable wipe does make a difference – be careful with those baby, cleaning and makeup wipes!

So, what have we learned, grown-ups? Only flush the flushable! Don’t flush wipes with the Do Not Flush symbol – they go in the trash.