If your home relies on a septic tank, it’s important that you treat the system carefully and pay close attention to what goes down the drain. A septic tank is susceptible to overflowing, backups, and clogs when the wrong items are lodged inside, leading to expensive repairs and potential replacements. The experts at Apollo Portable Toilets & Pumping Service advise residents of Mexico, MO, to keep a few items in particular away from their drains. 

5 Items You Should Never Put Down the Drain

1. Paper Items

Napkins, paper towels, and even feminine hygiene products may be labeled as “flushable,” but they can wreak havoc on your plumbing. These items can collect and form hard-to-remove blockages in your septic tank, causing it to clog and promote unwanted bacterial growth. Throw all paper products into the trash instead.

2. Grease & Oil

Cooking grease is known to coagulate and harden when exposed to colder temperatures. When grease goes down your drains, it will cling to pipe walls and produce a foul smell. Instead of pouring grease and oil down your sink, put the liquid into an aluminum can or jar that can be thrown in the trash later on.

3. Coffee Grounds

Coffee grounds are tough on pipes, especially those in your septic system. Pouring used coffee grounds down the drain will scratch and damage the hardware, making replacements necessary much sooner than they would be otherwise. 

4. Fruit Rinds

Fruit rinds do not break down quickly—in fact, they will sit in the drain or tank for months until it is pumped out, inviting bacteria and mold growth. To avoid a costly repair job, toss fruit rinds in the garbage, or use them as compost for your garden. Fruit rinds also usually have plastic stickers that can sit in your tank for years, so it’s up to you to dispose of them safely. 

5. Chemical Solutions

Cleaning solutions are made from harsh chemicals that will strip the inside of your septic tank and cause irreparable damage. Keep all chemical solutions out of your drains and talk to your pumping service about other safe ways you can dispose of unwanted products. 

If you’re struggling to keep your setup running smoothly in Mexico, MO, call Apollo Portable Toilets & Pumping Service. They offer reliable septic tank service as well as portable toilet rentals so that all of your plumbing needs are covered. Learn more about their commercial and residential services online or make an appointment by calling (573) 581-6306.