We’ve all heard about the endless list of things that should never be flushed down a toilet. Why? Because they take a toll on your septic system, especially if your septic tank is full; leading to premature and costly repairs. Take a look at 5 of the most volatile products for your septic system.
While it’s obvious to most people that flushing large, physical objects is bad for your septic system, there are quite a few items that people may think to be safe but are actually not. Texas Johns is proud to bring you this list in the hopes that you are able to prolong your system or prepare for inevitable repairs.
1. All Things Cotton
When it comes to q-tips to cotton balls, and cotton swabs, these are products that you definitely do not want to be flushing into your septic system. While these products are promoted as a lightweight material for your body, that’s pretty much the only areas where they are light. Cotton does not break down in a septic system, and continuous flushing of these products promotes quick clogs and repairs.
2. Feminine Hygiene Products and More
Although feminine products like tampons and pads may seem like they are septic system friendly. they are not. As far as feminine products, go they are built to absorb water and not dissolve.
Also, any latex products are a huge negative when it comes to flushing. These products do not dissolve and eventually make their way through a septic system and wind up in run-off water reserves.
3. “Flushable” Baby Wipes
Much like all other products on this list, these feel like they should be flushable. Some of these may even promote that they are. It makes sense that someone may think flushing wipes down is doable since these products seem to be the same consistency as some toilet papers.
The problem lies in what they are made of. Toilet paper is meant to dissolve upon contact with water. Baby wipes are liquid heavy and do not dissolve well over time. Flushing these into your system can lead to clogged pipes quickly.
4. Old Medications
Medications are meant to dissolve in our body’s system, not your septic system. Flushing expired medications is not recommended, although the FDA suggests that some medications must be flushed upon expiration. These medications are meant for this and will have these directions on the bottle.
All other medications will eventually find their way through a septic system and create a hazard by dispersing into local drinking water reserves.
5. Drain Cleaning Chemicals (Septic System Killers!)
Clog-busters like Drano are meant to dissolve hair or soap scum that resides in your sink or shower drains. If you notice that your toilet is clogged up, please do not attempt to pour these products down to handle the problem. These types of products will strip away your porcelain and easily damage your pipes.
Damage Your Septic System? Texas Johns can Help!
If you have already flushed these types of products down your toilet for years, then a septic tank cleaning or repair is your next big step. Get in touch with Texas Johns today to find out about our septic tank pumping services and how we can help.
