San Lorenzo, CA — More people are using disinfectant wipes and alternatives to toilet paper during the ongoing COVID-19 shelter-in-place. Please remember that only pee, poo, and toilet paper should be flushed down the toilet. Anything else, including any type of “disposable” wipe or paper towels, go in the trash.
Remember: Wipes Clog Pipes
Flushing anything else down the toilet can cause unwanted sewer backups in your home, as well as blockages in the Oro Loma Sanitary District sewer system. Think before you flush and reduce the risk of having a sewer backup in your home, or the main sewer line.
Only flush the three Ps – pee, poop and toilet paper — down the toilet. Never put any of the following items in your toilet for any reason: flushable wipes, cleaning wipes, tissues, paper towels, napkins, newspaper, coffee filters, magazines, socks, towels, fabrics, cotton balls, cardboard, t-shirts, and corn husks.
Only Flush the Three Ps: Pee, Poop and Toilet Paper
- Watch this video to learn more about what can and cannot be flushed down the toilet.
- Visit this page for additional “what not to flush” information.
If you are using something other than toilet paper to aid in the disposal of human feces, please following this protocol:
- Immediately after use, place the soiled toilet paper alternative in a bag.
- Tie off or roll closed the full bag
- Place the bag in the garbage cart or bin. Do not place the bag in the recycling or organics carts or bins.
Thank you for helping us prevent blockages in our sewers and protecting the SF Bay. If you do experience a sewer issue during this time, please call 510-276-4700. Do not email us in case of an emergency such as suspected sewer backup, sewer spill or slow plugged-up drains: A staff member will answer your call 24/7.
About Oro Loma Sanitary District
As a special district, Oro Loma provides wastewater collection and treatment, solid waste, and recycling services. The District serves several communities, including San Lorenzo, Ashland, Cherryland, and Fairview, as well as 40% of the City of San Leandro and small portions of Castro Valley and the City of Hayward. Oro Loma’s service area is located about 13 miles south of Oakland, on the eastern shore of the San Francisco Bay.
