Even though tampons are sometimes marketed as flushable, tampons should never be flushed; Ever. If you’re reading this, you likely already had a sneaky suspicion that tampons can cause plumbing problems, and your intuition is spot on.
A tampon can expand up to 10 times its original size once submerged in water. Another cause for concern is the string of the tampon. Once in the pipes, the tampon string can get snagged on regular build-up or junctions in the plumbing, turning your pipes into a flushing time-bomb.
One of the biggest problems that follow a flushed tampon is the fact that they don’t break down as toilet paper does. For that reason, flushed menstrual items wreak havoc on septic systems. If you live in the city, and the tampon manages to make it to the city’s sewer system, tampons accumulate at the wastewater treatment facility where they gum up screens, grinders, and other wastewater equipment causing costly problems. If the tampon doesn't make it out to the sewers, that means you're a flushed tampon or two away from an expensive visit from your local plumber.
A Better Alternative For Disposing of Your Tampon
So, flushing your tampon is a resounding No. Is there a better option? Absolutely! It's called MaskIT. MaskIT disposal bags for tampons are clean, easy to use, and sustainable! The innovative design offers touch-free removal, inverts to self contain, and seals the item within the bag. The white opaque bags are discreet in the waste bin and block odor. MaskIT is a modern solution for menstruators.
