Sewer FOG Outreach Program

Can Your Grease, Protect Our Pipes

A Message from the Wellesley Water & Sewer Division

Every day, fats, oils, and grease (FOG) from cooking make their way down kitchen drains — from frying pans, baking trays, and dishwashers. When poured or rinsed into the plumbing system, these materials cool and harden, sticking to the inside of pipes and creating blockages that can lead to costly backups and sewer overflows. That's why we're asking all residents to Can Your Grease, Protect Our Pipes.

How to Use Your Free Grease Lidasdf

We're distributing reusable "Can Your Grease" lids to help households collect cooking grease safely and easily.

  1. Grab a can — A clean, empty soup or coffee can works perfectly.
  2. Pour cooled grease or oil into the can after cooking.
  3. Snap on your grease lid.
  4. Store in your fridge or freezer to reduce odors.
  5. When full, toss the entire can in the trash (or bring to the Recycling & Disposal Facility if local guidelines require special disposal).

These lids are dishwasher-safe and reusable — a small step that makes a big difference for your home and our community.

What Else Shouldn't Go Down the Drain?

  • Meat fats and butter

  • Salad dressings and mayonnaise
  • Dairy products (milk, cream, sauces)
  • Food scraps and coffee grounds

Why It Matters

FOG clogs are one of the leading causes of sewer backups in Wellesley. When grease, fats, or oils enter the sewer system, they mix with wipes and other debris to form thick blockages — sometimes called "fatbergs." These blockages can:

  • Cause sewer backups in homes and streets
  • Lead to environmental contamination from sewer overflows
  • Increase maintenance costs that affect all ratepayers
  • Damage your home's plumbing, resulting in expensive repairs

By properly disposing of FOG, you help protect your plumbing, the town's infrastructure, and our environment.

Think Before You Flush

Even products labeled "flushable" often do not break down in the sewer system. When combined with grease, wipes create tough, rope-like clogs that can jam pumps and cause overflows.

Please remember: Only toilet paper and human waste should ever be flushed.

All other items belong in the trash, including:

  • Baby wipes and disinfectant wipes
  • Paper towels and tissues
  • Dental floss
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • Cotton swabs and cotton balls
  • Medication and pills

Protecting Wellesley's Pipes Together

This campaign is part of the Wellesley Water & Sewer Division's ongoing effort to keep our community's sewer system safe, efficient, and environmentally responsible.

Look for our outreach materials at community events, local coffee shops, and Town Hall.

Request Your Free "Can Your Grease" Lids: 

781-235-7600
dpw@wellesleyma.gov