What Not to Flush

A complete list of products to avoid if you have a septic system

We’ve been in the septic business for over a decade and we’ve dealt with tons of backups – the most common culprit when it comes to major clogs and backups... flushable wipes and paper towels! Yes, “flushable” wipes. Don’t let the labels fool you - there is no such thing as a “flushable” wipe when you have a septic system.

In addition to the obvious culprits like wipes and paper towels, there are a variety of things that can lead to septic problems or throw off the delicate balance of good/bad bacteria in your septic tank. Keep reading to learn more or contact us today to schedule your next septic service.

The Issue with "Flushable Wipes"

Unlike toilet paper that dissolves quickly as soon as it gets wet, paper towels, baby wipes, cleaning wipes and makeup removing wipes are durable and can take years to break down and dissolve. Don’t believe us? Watch this video to see for yourself!

Pretty crazy right? Well, wipes aren’t the only thing you need to watch out for. If you have a septic system it’s important to pay close attention to what you flush on a regular basis. Wipes, paper towels, tissues, balls of hair and feminine products are obvious no-nos that can cause physical clogs and backups. Other items to avoid include chemicals, grease and cleaning products – products that aren’t the always the “obvious” ones.

The reason for this is because your septic system is designed to break down solids and waste with naturally occurring bacteria. When you suddenly introduce harsh chemicals or grease to that environment, your septic tank’s pH can change dramatically, ruining the balance of “healthy” bacteria that keeps your tank working properly. If you’re not sure if a product or detergent is septic safe, simply check the label. Many toilet paper products have a “septic safe” label or icon. 

NEVER flush or rinse the following items down the drain:

• Gasoline, oil and other petroleum products
• Cooking grease and oils
• Paint, paint thinner or solvents
• Antibacterial soaps (in large amounts)
• Products with high levels of phosphorous – often found in laundry detergents, cleaning supplies etc.
• Feminine products, makeup removing wipes or baby wipes
• Even those wipes labeled "flushable" should never be flushed

In addition to being careful about what gets flushed, regular septic system maintenance is the best way to prevent a future septic system backup. We recommend having your septic tank emptied every 2-4 years to ensure things are in good condition and your tank is functioning properly. Our technicians will check your tank, baffles and all septic system components to make sure your tank levels are satisfactory and your drainfield is filtering waste water efficiently. To schedule your next septic pumping in the Twin Tiers area, contact us today!