PEOPLE are being warned to use loos responsibly by not sending inappropriate items down the drain.

Campaigners said toilet cleansing cloths, face wipes, baby wipes, cotton wool, tampons, sanitary towels, condoms, nappies, razor blades and plasters, along with fats, oils and grease frequently make their way into the sewer system, even though they would be better off in the bin.

Research by the Consumer Council for Water (CCW) showed the majority of consumers are unaware that these items, unlike toilet paper, don’t break down and can get caught in pipes, building up a blockage over time.

Blocked drains can lead to expensive maintenance bills, or worse, sewer flooding.

CCW chief executive Tony Smith said: “Having your home flooded with sewage is very unpleasant."