City warns residents: “Wipes clog pipes” and F.O.G. causes sewer backups

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CARBONDALE, Ill., (KBSI) – The City of Carbondale is reminding residents not to dispose of certain materials down household drains, noting that many items prohibited by city code can cause significant clogs—especially when they become entangled in tree roots.

The city issued guidelines on what should never be flushed or poured into drains, along with safer disposal alternatives.

“Wipes Clog Pipes”

Officials warn that no type of wipe should be flushed, including products marketed as “flushable.” Unlike toilet paper, wipes do not break down and are a leading cause of sewer blockages locally and nationwide. All wipes should be thrown in the trash.

Items That Should Never Be Flushed

Residents should avoid flushing the following:

• Cotton products such as cotton balls, swabs and feminine hygiene products
• Cat litter
• Baby wipes, adult hygiene wipes and disposable cleaning cloths
• Diapers
• Dental floss
• Paper towels
• Medications

Many of these materials do not dissolve or break down slowly, causing clogged pipes and sewer backups. They should always be disposed of in the trash.

“Fight F.O.G.” — Fats, Oils and Grease

The city also urges residents not to pour cooking grease down the sink, even when diluted with hot water. Fats, oils and grease harden as they cool and cling to the inside of sewer pipes, leading to costly blockages and environmental overflows.

To dispose of grease safely, residents should pour it into a metal can or heat-safe container, allow it to cool, place a lid on the container and throw it away when full. Any remaining grease should be wiped from pans with a paper towel before washing.

“Cool It, Can It, Trash It!”

The city recommends the following practices:

• Pour cooled F.O.G. into a non-meltable container with a lid.
• Keep the container until full, then place it in the trash.
• Wipe grease residue from pans with paper towels before washing.
• Use a sink strainer to catch food scraps and empty it into the trash.
• Households with garbage disposals should follow the same rules and avoid disposing of grease-related foods through the disposal.

Residents with questions may contact Carbondale Water & Sewer at 618-529-1731. Media inquiries may be directed to Public Relations Officer Eva Fisher at 618-713-0711.

The city noted that Carbondale is committed to fostering an open, inclusive community and maintaining high-quality public services for residents, students and visitors.