Why You Might Be Using The Wrong Toilet Paper For Your Septic System And What To Do About It
What To Know
- To ensure smooth operation and prevent costly repairs, it’s crucial to understand what toilet paper is best suited for your septic system.
- High-lint toilet paper can clog the pipes and filter in your septic system, leading to backups and malfunctions.
- Can I use regular toilet paper in my septic system if I flush it sparingly.
Navigating the world of toilet paper for septic systems can be a daunting task. To ensure smooth operation and prevent costly repairs, it’s crucial to understand what toilet paper is best suited for your septic system.
Understanding Septic Systems
Septic systems are underground wastewater treatment systems that rely on bacteria to break down waste. The bacteria thrive in an oxygen-free environment, and the use of inappropriate toilet paper can disrupt this delicate balance.
What to Look for in Septic-Safe Toilet Paper
1. Biodegradability: Septic-safe toilet paper should be made from materials that decompose quickly in the septic tank. This includes natural fibers such as bamboo, sugar cane, and recycled paper.
2. Low Lint: High-lint toilet paper can clog the pipes and filter in your septic system, leading to backups and malfunctions. Opt for low-lint options to minimize clogging.
3. No Additives: Avoid toilet paper with added fragrances, dyes, or other chemicals. These substances can kill the bacteria in your septic tank and hinder its ability to break down waste.
Recommended Septic-Safe Toilet Paper Brands
Here are some highly recommended brands of septic-safe toilet paper:
- Seventh Generation: Made from recycled paper, biodegradable, and low lint.
- Green Forest: Bamboo-based, biodegradable, and free from dyes and fragrances.
- Who Gives a Crap: Made from sugar cane and bamboo, biodegradable, and environmentally friendly.
- Everspring: Recycled paper, biodegradable, and low lint.
- Charmin Ultra Soft: Biodegradable, low lint, and available in septic-safe versions.
What to Avoid
- Regular Toilet Paper: Most regular toilet paper is made from wood pulp, which is not as biodegradable as natural fibers.
- High-Lint Toilet Paper: High-lint toilet paper can clog pipes and filters, causing problems with your septic system.
- Toilet Paper with Additives: Avoid toilet paper with added fragrances, dyes, or other chemicals, as these can harm the bacteria in your septic tank.
Other Tips for Septic System Maintenance
- Flush Sparingly: Only flush toilet paper and human waste down your toilet.
- Use Drain Cleaners Sparingly: Drain cleaners can kill the bacteria in your septic tank.
- Inspect Your System Regularly: Have your septic system inspected and pumped every 3-5 years to ensure proper operation.
FAQs
1. What are the signs of a septic system problem?
- Slow-draining toilets and sinks
- Gurgling sounds in pipes
- Foul odors
- Sewage backup
2. Can I use flushable wipes in my septic system?
- No, flushable wipes are not biodegradable and can clog pipes and filters in your septic system.
3. How often should I have my septic tank pumped?
- Every 3-5 years, depending on the size of your household and usage.
4. What should I do if my septic system backs up?
- Call a septic tank professional immediately. Do not attempt to fix it yourself.
5. Can I use regular toilet paper in my septic system if I flush it sparingly?
- No, regular toilet paper is not biodegradable and can still cause problems in your septic system, even if flushed sparingly.
