My single best thing came from Chris Airhart with Hart's Septic Services a few weeks ago. Chris kept talking about wipes — whether they’re labeled flushable or not — and how they are one of the worst things for septic systems because they clog pumps and pipes.

What I didn’t realize at the time was that he was setting us up for a visual. During his 7-minute, he showed two containers of water. One had toilet paper in it, the other had a “flushable” wipe. The toilet paper had already broken down, but the wipe was still fully intact.

That visual made it crystal clear — flushable wipes really aren’t flushable, and they can cause serious problems not just for septic systems but for plumbing on sewer as well. 

Now when I’m in someone’s home or business and I see wipes sitting near the restroom, it reminds me to mention what Chris taught us and suggest they might want a preventative septic inspection before a problem starts.