As with the other vital systems that keep your home functional, your septic system is an investment that requires care and maintenance. To avoid costly pump-outs, you need to stick to a routine septic service schedule and keep certain items out of your toilet. Wondering what those items might be? Continue reading to find out. 

Top 5 Things You Should Never Flush

1. Household Cleaners & Chemicals

Refrain from pouring household cleaners and chemicals down your toilets, as they can interfere with the natural bacteria that helps keep your system functional. This includes vehicle oil, paint and paint thinner, antifreeze, pesticides, solvents, and gasoline.

2. Hair

Never flush hair down the toilet, as hair does not break down in septic tanks and causes premature clogging. Keep both human and animal hair out of your toilets to keep your pipes clog-free. 

3. Bathroom Items

Throw bathroom items such as dental floss, tampons, and cotton swabs in the trash instead of down the drain. While all of these items are small, they take decades to break down. Excessive amounts of any of these items can eventually build up and cause serious septic clogs.

4. Antibacterial Soap

Avoid using antibacterial soap to clean your toilet. An abundance of antibacterial soap in your septic tank disrupts the natural bacteria balance.

5. Latex Products

Ensure all latex products, such as condoms and rubber gloves, are disposed of correctly. Latex is not biodegradable and will clog the drainfield if the system’s outlet tee baffles are missing.

If you need septic service for your home, turn to the licensed plumbers at American Rooter Sewer & Septic Service in Albany, OR, to keep your drains clear. The company provides a wide range of services, including drain cleaning and sewer line repair in addition to septic service. Call (541) 926-1185 for an estimate or visit the website for more information. Like the service on Facebook for more helpful plumbing tips.