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Bin it - don't block it

Bin it don't block it

flushing wet wipes can lead to blocked drains and sewage backing up

Working together to prevent blockages

Blocked drains and sewers can lead to flooded streets, sewage backing up into homes and costly repairs. Many blockages are caused by everyday items being flushed down toilets or poured down sinks when they shouldn't be, with wet wipes being one of the most common causes.

Wet wipes belong in the bin, not down the toilet. It might seem harmless to flush one wet wipe, but wipes can build up in pipes and cause blockages. That includes all wet wipes, even those labelled flushable, biodegradable or plastic-free. Next time, put your wet wipe in the bin and help protect your neighbourhood.

Learn what can and can't be flushed or poured away to help keep drains clear and wastewater flowing.

Loo roll

Only flush these down the toilet

You should only flush the three Ps:

  • pee
  • poo
  • toilet paper
Flushing anything else can block pipes, drains and sewers.
Bin icon

Do not flush these down the toilet

You should not flush:

  • wet wipes (including those labelled flushable, biodegradable or plastic-free)
  • period products
  • nappies
  • cotton wool and cotton pads
  • dental floss
  • condoms
  • hair
Flushing anything other than the three Ps can cause blockages in pipes, drains and sewers. Wet wipes are one of the most common causes, which is why all wet wipes belong in the bin. 
glass drinking water icon

Only pour these down the sink

Only put these everyday liquids down the sink:

  • water
  • washing-up water
  • drinks and other leftover liquids

Keeping other waste out of your sink helps prevent blocked drains.

food prep icon

Do not pour these down the sink

Your sink is designed for wastewater, not waste. Do not put these in your sink:

  • fat, oil and grease
  • food scraps
  • coffee grounds 
  • cooking oil
Fat, oil and grease are one of the most common causes of blocked drains. Learn how to dispose of fats, oils and grease.

Also keep these out of your sink:

  • paint
  • chemicals
  • solvents
  • medicines

Dispose of these safely through a pharmacy, recycling centre or household waste facility. Never never pour them down the sink.

Check whether your local council accepts used cooking oil and other household waste at a recycling centre.
Find your local council
Bidbi Drain 1687X600Bidbi Drain 1687X600

Blockages can be disruptive and expensive

Most blockages can be prevented. Yet every year we clear around 75,000 blockages across our network.

  • Blockages cause over
    60%
    of sewer floods
  • Clearing them costs over
    £40 million
    a year
  • A blockage in your home could leave you with a plumbing bill of
    £200
    or more
Using rods to clear a blockage

How blockages happen

Everyday items such as wet wipes, fats, oils and grease can build up in pipes and restrict the flow of wastewater. Over time, this can lead to blocked drains, sewer flooding and costly repairs.

  • Wet wipes, fats and grease enter drains
  • Waste sticks together in pipes
  • Water cannot flow freely
  • Blockages build up over time
  • Drains and sewers can overflow
Toilet being fixed

Got a blockage already?

You may have a blockage if:

  • your toilet is difficult to flush
  • water drains away slowly
  • you notice unpleasant smells
  • wastewater is coming back up sinks, baths or toilets
Check who is responsible and what to do next.
Get blockage help

Help prevent blocked drains

Only flushing the three Ps and keeping fats, oils, grease and other waste out of your drains can help prevent blockages, avoid costly repairs and reduce the risk of sewer flooding.