Flushing Garlic Down Toilets: Viral Hack for Odour Control or Plumbing Risk?

• A viral social media trend involves flushing garlic cloves down toilets to eliminate bad odours and deter insects.
• Proponents believe garlic's strong aroma acts as a natural repellent and masks unpleasant smells.
• Experts suggest garlic's effect is limited to temporarily masking odour and mildly deterring insects; it does not disinfect or deeply clean.
• While occasional flushing of a clove might be harmless, frequent disposal of food waste like garlic can lead to clogged pipes or septic tank issues.
• Effective solutions for persistent toilet odour and insect problems include regular cleaning, proper products, and adequate ventilation.

Why It Matters: Flushing garlic for toilet odour is a viral hack with limited efficacy and potential plumbing risks.