One of Oregon’s most populous counties is seeing a significant increase in non-flushable items clogging pipes during the coronavirus pandemic, which can severely damage the sewage system and create wastewater overflows.

Since March 17, Washington County Clean Water Services has seen more non-flushable items like cleaning wipes, facial tissues, napkins, mop refills, rags, and feminine hygiene products clogging pipes at their pump stations. What used to be a once-a-year cleanup to unclog pipes now has been happening on a weekly basis.

Clean Water Services’ Karen DeBaker said clogged pipes have always been a problem, but right now it is on overdrive.