If your home happens to be connected to a septic system, what you and your family flush, pour, and drain may make a large difference, not just for your plumbing, but also for the long-term health and efficiency of your septic system.
Whether you’re a new homeowner, or simply looking to improve your septic habits, this full-scale guide on what can and cannot go down the drain will help you in further understanding what's safe and what’s unsafe to flush down the drain.
Septic systems rely on homeowners creating a balance of bacteria and enzymes to properly break down waste efficiently and effectively. Everything which goes down the drain ultimately ends up in your septic tank, where solids begin to settle and bacteria digest organic matter over time. If you happen to send harmful chemicals, non-biodegradable materials, or excess solids into your septic system, it will disrupt this process. From there, your septic system may experience backups, clogs, foul smells, or even a catastrophic system failure.
Here at Wholesale Septic Supply, we always recommend being proactive, not reactive. Proper usage paired with proactive maintenance leads to fewer repairs and an overall longer lifespan for your system.
Here’s what you can safely allow into your sinks, tubs, and toilets (within reason and moderation):
All of your household water (showers, laundry, sink water, toilet water, etc…) is designed to be able to go into your septic system.
With this being said, it’s still important to attempt to spread out your usage (ex.: don’t do four loads of laundry in a single day).
Septic systems are primarily built for human waste, urine and feces will be able to break down easily in the tank.
Be sure to use only biodegradable, septic-safe toilet paper.
Always choose products labeled “septic-safe” or “biodegradable”.
Try to avoid products with bleach, antibacterial agents, or any other type of harsh solvents.
Flushing the wrong materials down the drain can truly wreak havoc on your septic system. These are the biggest culprits when it comes to what cannot go down the drain:
Grease, fats, and oils solidify and clog pipes and septic tanks.
Be sure to wipe grease-laden pans with a paper towel and properly discard in the trash prior to washing in your dishwasher.
Bleach, drain cleaners, paint thinners, and solvents will typically kill off the good bacteria your septic system depends on to maintain its delicate balance of good vs. bad bacteria.
If you’re unsure of what’s safe or unsafe to put down the drain, ask the experts at Wholesale Septic Supply. We're happy to advise on any and all septic-safe alternatives.
Even “flushable” wipes do not break down like toilet paper breaks down. They will eventually clog pipes and septic tanks.
Only septic-safe toilet paper and human waste should go down the toilet.
Coffee grounds, eggshells, and other food scraps do not break down easily and may ultimately accumulate in your septic tank.
If you do happen to use a garbage disposal in your home, use it sparingly. Alternatively, consider a septic-rated garbage disposal unit.
Prescription drugs may disrupt the delicate bacterial balance in your tank and harm local water supplies. Simply don’t flush medications down the toilet or drain.
Never flush expired medications. Always return them to a pharmacy or designated take-back location.
Paint, motor oil, or pesticides are hazardous waste and should never go down any drain.
Always dispose of them through your appropriate community programs.
At Wholesale Septic Supply, we don’t simply sell septic supply products, we truly educate homeowners on how to best protect their initial septic system investment. Here are some of our top tips for septic-friendly drain habits:
Limit your water usage during storms or in short time frames to avoid overloading your tank and causing issues to arise.
Pump your septic tank every 3–5 years, or sooner, depending on usage, tank size, and number of people in your household.
Install filters and effluent screens to proactively catch solids prior to developing a clog in your drain field, which in turn could create a number of problems.
Have your septic system properly inspected and maintained on a regular basis. Proactive prevention is always cheaper than emergency repairs.
If you’ve accidentally poured grease, bleach, or some other questionable things down your drain, do not panic, but do act quickly.
Flush the system with plenty of water (if safe to do so).
Call a septic professional to inspect your tank if you notice any slow drains or foul smells developing.
And remember, our team at Wholesale Septic Supply can assist you in finding the right treatment products or refer you to local service pros if needed.
When in doubt, trust your septic system to professionals who understand it inside and out. At Wholesale Septic Supply, we are happy to carry:
Risers, lids, filters, and repair kits
Tools for septic inspections and D-I-Y maintenance
All of our techs are trained and able to help you out if any issues arise.
Everything you put down your drain will ultimately affect your septic system one way or another. With a few thoughtful, conscious changes and the right products from Wholesale Septic Supply, you’re able to extend the life of your septic system, most likely save thousands on repairs, and protect the environment surrounding your property.
Always remember: If it’s not water, waste, or septic-safe toilet paper, think twice before sending it down the drain to your septic system.
Do you need help choosing the right product?
Reach out to one of our friendly support team members at Wholesale Septic Supply. We’re here to keep your septic system flowing the way it should. We look forward to working with you soon and we’re eager to have you optimizing your septic system to its fullest potential.
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