Soap is a material that we all rely on daily. From scrubbing up in the shower to filling our appliances with detergent, soap is a necessity to keeping our lives clean. Another necessity for cleanliness is a well-maintained septic system.
Your septic system may seem like a literal tank, but it is actually more delicate than you’d expect; especially when it comes to soap. Find out how your soap and detergents could be damaging your system and how you can select products that keep you and your septic tank happy.
Is Antibacterial Soap Bad for Your System?
Your septic system only functions at optimal levels when there is a healthy amount of bacteria present in the system. These beneficial bacterias are what break down solid waste and stop your system from backing up into the home.
Antibacterials alone are meant to destroy bacteria. While this is great for washing your hands or doing laundry, antibacterials are killers to your septic system. Overuse of antibacterials mixed with ignored septic tank pumping means that your system will eventually:
- Slow down
- Start emitting odors
- Back up completely
What Counts as Antibacterial?
Antibacterial soaps are found everywhere! Some examples of products that we use that could damage a septic system are:
- Tile and tub cleaners
- Drain cleaners
- Laundry detergent
- Toilet bowl cleaners
Does This Mean I Can’t Use Antibacterials?
All of the mentioned products above are things that we use to keep a home sanitary. So, does this mean you can’t use them? Of course not, but even the FDA has shown that antibacterials aren’t 100 percent beneficial.
According to the FDA, antibacterial soap has not been proven to be more effective against fighting bacteria than hot water and regular soap. It’s even been shown that these types of soaps could reduce our immune systems in the long-run.
Healthy Alternatives
You don’t need to use antibacterials to keep your home and body clean. There are several alternatives available that allow for you and your septic system to continue functioning successfully.
Before selecting alternatives, it is important that you understand the type of system that you have. Every type is different and requires various levels of bacteria to work 100 percent.
Our recommendation is to seek out phosphate-free products and select quality over quantity when purchasing household cleaning products. There are even hand soap alternatives that keep your body clean and septic system pumping. One brand that we hold in high regard is Eco-Me.
Have a System or Tank Problem? Texas Johns Can Help
You may have gone years with your septic system using unfriendly detergents and soaps. If that’s the case, your system could be in trouble. Texas Johns is an experienced company that specializes in septic system maintenance and repair. Reach out to us today to schedule an inspection or pumping.
