Bedsheets Don’t Belong in the Sewer

Recently, our Utilities team had to remove a bedsheet from Valleyview’s sanitary sewer system. While it may sound unusual, this isn’t the first time we’ve had to deal with items that simply do not belong in pipes. From rags and wipes to clothing and beddings, these materials cause serious problems once they enter the sewer system.

What may seem like a harmless flush can actually create blockages that affect the entire community. Valleyview’s sewer system is designed to only handle wastewater and toilet paper–nothing more.

Why It Matters

When non-flushable items end up in the sewer system, they:

  • Damage Equipment – Items like sheets, rags, and wipes wrap around pump impellers, clogging and burning out motors that are expensive to repair or replace.
  • Cause sewage backups – Blockages can push sewage back into basements, businesses, and even streets, creating unsafe and costly emergencies.
  • Increase costs for everyone – Every preventable repair, cleanup, and extra maintenance job adds to operating costs, which impacts the entire community through high utility expenses.
  • Create safety risks for staff – Utilities workers must physically remove these items, often in hazardous conditions.

What You Can Do to Help

Keeping Valleyview’s sewers flowing is a team effort. Here’s how you can help:

  • Flush only the 3 P’s: pee, poo, and toilet paper.
  • Never flush rags, wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products – these belong in the garbage.
  • Dispose of grease and oils properly – pour cooled grease into a container and throw it in the trash, never down the sink.
  • Spread the word – remind family, friends, and neighbours about what not to flush.

Remember

Under the Town of Valleyview’s Water and Sewer Bylaw, residents and businesses must not dispose of rags, wipes, grease, or other non-flushable items into the sewer system. These rules aren’t just for compliance – they’re in place to protect our infrastructure, our environment, and our community.

Together, we can prevent costly blockages, protect our homes and businesses, and keep Valleyview’s sewer system running smoothly.

For more information, or to report a sewer concern, please contact Utilities & Asset Management at (780) 524-5156