What not to flush

What we put down the drain can affect our drinking water. We can all do our part to help keep our water systems clean by controlling what we put into our sewer system. This is referred to as “source control” which is a prevention technique that helps reduce contaminants.

Do not flush…

Bathroom items

Diapers, disposable/wet wipes, rags, bandages
Tooth floss, cotton swabs, condoms, cosmetics
Personal hygiene products (tampons, applicators, sanitary napkins)
Pills and medicine (return to a pharmacist for disposal)

Food waste

Fats, grease and oils (deep fryer oil, vegetable oil, cooking oil)
Lard, butter, salad dressing, marinade for meats
Vegetables, meat, pasta, bread, and other food waste items

Household items

Cigarette butts
Paper towels, napkins
Children toys

Hazardous waste

Bleach and ammonia
Clean solvents and spot removers
Disinfectants
Hot tub and swimming pool chemicals
Oven cleaners
Septic tank cleaners
Latex, alkyd and/or oil-based paints
Lacquers, stains and varnishes
Paint thinners, strippers and solvents
Petroleum-based products such as motor oil and gasoline

Learn more about what's flushable

What to do with fats, oils and grease

There's a place for you to get rid of all that leftover household cooking oil and congealed fats or grease. Take it to:

The Glenmore Landfill in Kelowna

These two grease collection program is a partnership with McLeod's By-Products in Armstrong, BC.

Learn all about FOG – Fats, oils and grease

If you have large volumes of cooking oil, you can pour it into the receptacles provided at either location. If you have congealed grease, it's recommended you put it in a metal can or container and drop the whole metal container into the recycling receptacle provided. As a reminder, please do not place anything other than cooking oil and kitchen grease into the recycling containers provided, no petroleum oil such as motor oil, food items, plastic containers, or garbage.

You may also dispose of cooking oils and grease by placing the container into the trash once the container is cooled.

Leftover grease and oil should be removed from pans before washing them. Save water and soap by using a napkin to wipe them clean.