What Not to Pour Down the Sink
We all know there are some things you just shouldn’t put down the sink or flush down the toilet—like oil and wet wipes, for example. It’s pretty much common sense, so most of us limit what we toss down there.
However, there’s another item that many people, possibly without thinking twice, pour down the sink daily. And it might surprise you.
Time for a PSA
Sydney Water took to TikTok to share some amusing clips, highlighting items that often find their way into the sink but really shouldn’t. They even referred to it as a “PSA.”
They stated, “We don’t oil the sink.” Well, yes, that makes sense. But then things take a turn.
In the video, someone hilariously pointed out, “And he’s not pouring milk.” This commentary opens up a curious debate.
What About the Milk?
The video repeatedly warns against pouring coffee grounds down the sink. Yet, the milk conundrum lingers. Should we just struggle to tilt bottles over the sink?
Viewers echoed the confusion in the comments. One asked, “Where does milk go?” Another inquired, “What am I supposed to do with half a jug of milk?”
“Milk too?” was another recurring question. And many seemed baffled, asking, “Why can’t you pour out milk?”
Understanding the Concerns
Speaking to Kidspot, Ben Armstrong, who manages environment issues at Sydney Water, noted that these reactions are quite common among Australians.
In fact, he mentioned that about 70% of Sydney residents believe pouring leftover milk down the sink is fine.
But that’s not the case. As Armstrong explained, any liquids like milk, oil, or grease can solidify in pipes, which leads to clogs and costly repairs.
When these substances hit colder water in the wastewater systems, they harden and can combine with other waste, like wet wipes, forming something known as a “fatberg.” These clogs can result in overflows that pose severe health and environmental risks, potentially flooding homes and local waterways.
So, what to do with leftover milk? Armstrong suggests, “Maybe water your plants with it.” Diluting milk with tap water can actually provide some nutrients to your garden.
