It’s a well-known fact that flushing tampons down the toilet is a big no-no. But how many people are truly aware of this? It feels like everything I thought I knew has been turned upside down.
Just yesterday, I discovered that tampons should never be flushed. Apparently, this is something most people have known for ages, as the instructions on the tampon box clearly state it. However, as someone in my forties who hasn’t glanced at those instructions in years, this revelation left me dumbfounded. Honestly, I thought I had figured out the usage on my own long ago.
Speaking of which, are you guilty of flushing tampons? I have been, without fail. I’ve also strictly adhered to the rule of not flushing diaper wipes. In fact, some might say I’m excessively cautious, to the point of being labeled the “crazy lady” who won’t let anyone flush wipes. It’s mind-boggling to realize I’ve been making this mistake for nearly 30 years!
While browsing online, I stumbled upon an article titled, “Did anyone else know you can’t flush tampons?” My immediate reaction was disbelief: “What?!” I quickly turned to my colleagues for support, only to discover that many shared my confusion.
- Colleague 1: “Seriously?!”
- Colleague 2: “What are you supposed to do with them then?”
- Colleague 3: “I’ve always flushed them!”
- Colleague 4: “Wait, we’re meant to toss them in the trash? That feels wrong!”
- Colleague 5: “I’ve heard this before but never paid attention.”
Desperate for clarity, I contacted Kimberly-Clark regarding their Kotex brand. A representative confirmed, “Tampons should not be flushed. Unlike our flushable wipes, tampons don’t break down in wastewater systems.” Really? While I was aware that the applicator shouldn’t be flushed, I never thought the same applied to the actual tampon. The instructions state, “Do not flush tampons and wrappers down the toilet – it can clog the plumbing and harm the environment. Simply wrap it in toilet paper or place it in a bag and dispose of it in the trash or a sanitary unit.”
A bag? What bag?
According to Tampax, “Tampons are biodegradable in landfills, but flushing them is not recommended. They cannot be processed by wastewater facilities and may damage septic systems. Please dispose of tampons securely in the trash to help protect the environment.” Yikes, I’ve been neglecting my environmental responsibilities for 25 years!
Even Playtex states, “Flush the used tampon or place it in an appropriate waste container.” Tsk tsk.
What other misconceptions have we been harboring? This feels as disorienting as when I learned that Sinbad never starred in a genie movie called Shazaam! Yes, he did! Wait, no he didn’t. And no, you’re not supposed to wrap tampons in toilet paper and toss them in the trash!
If you’re curious about home insemination, be sure to check out our post on cryobaby home intracervical insemination syringe kit combo. For an authoritative take on this subject, you can visit this link. And for those exploring the realm of pregnancy and home insemination, the CDC provides an excellent resource at this link.
In summary, tampons should never be flushed down the toilet due to their inability to break down in wastewater systems, causing potential clogs and environmental harm. It is essential to wrap them in toilet paper and dispose of them in the trash instead.