Your toilet isn’t a trash can—and when you have a septic system, that distinction really matters. Every item you flush has to break down naturally, or it risks clogging your pipes, harming your tank, and shortening the lifespan of your entire septic system.
At Rob’s Septic Tanks, we’ve seen countless avoidable system failures caused by improper flushing. Protect your home and your wallet by keeping these common items out of your septic system.
🧻 1. “Flushable” Wipes (They’re Not)
Despite the label, most so-called flushable wipes don’t break down in septic tanks. These wipes tend to clump together, clog pipes, and cause backups.
Whether they’re baby wipes, cleaning wipes, or personal hygiene products—toss them in the trash, not the toilet.
🩹 2. Feminine Hygiene Products
Tampons, pads, and applicators are designed to absorb moisture, not dissolve in it. These products expand and can get stuck in plumbing or settle in the tank, causing buildup and requiring premature pumping.
🧼 3. Grease, Fat, and Cooking Oils
It might be a kitchen issue, but pouring grease down the drain is a fast way to clog your system. Grease solidifies in pipes and doesn’t break down in the septic tank, where it floats and contributes to a thick scum layer.
Always let grease cool and throw it in the garbage.
💊 4. Medications and Chemicals
Flushing expired pills, cleaning chemicals, paint thinner, or bleach can kill the helpful bacteria that your septic system relies on to process waste. Without those bacteria, your tank won’t break down solids properly, leading to sludge buildup and possible system failure.
Use local drug take-back programs or proper chemical disposal methods instead.
🧵 5. Dental Floss, Cotton Swabs & Hair
Small items like floss, cotton swabs, and hair don’t dissolve—they tangle and clump inside the tank, just like string or rope. Over time, these materials can block components or even jam pumps in more advanced systems like ATUs.
📦 6. Diapers, Paper Towels, and Tissues
Toilet paper is designed to break down quickly in water. Other paper products, like tissues, paper towels, and diapers, are not. These bulky items can clog pipes and rapidly fill your tank with non-biodegradable waste.
✅ Protect Your Septic System with Smart Habits
A few good rules to follow:
✔️ Only flush waste and toilet paper
✔️ Keep a small trash can in the bathroom
✔️ Educate family and guests
✔️ Watch what goes down your kitchen drain
✔️ Schedule regular inspections and pumping
By being mindful of what you flush, you’ll help your septic system run better, last longer, and cost you less in repairs.
📞 Need Help with Septic Backups or Clogs?
If your system is already acting up, Rob’s Septic Tanks is here to help. With over 40 years of experience, we’ll diagnose the issue, clean your tank, and give you advice to prevent future problems.
👉 Call today for expert septic service—and peace of mind that flows.