Your septic system is one of the most critical components in your home. Flushing the wrong items down your toilet can inflict significant damage on your septic tank and cost you a fortune to repair. To keep your pipes running smoothly, keep in mind a few items you should never flush down your toilet. 

What Never to Flush Down the Toilet

1. Paper Towels

While toilet paper is bio-degradable, paper towels can take a long time to disintegrate. They wreak havoc on your septic tank by getting clogged in the pipes or tank. To avoid septic repair, always throw paper towels in the garbage. 

2. Medication

Expired medications should never be thrown into a toilet. It’s an environmental hazard; they can contaminate your wastewater system and leak into the main water supply. Always place pharmaceuticals, such as painkillers, antibiotics, and pills in a plastic bag and throw them away in the trash. 

3. Feminine Hygiene Products

Feminine products, such as sanitary pads, tampons, and applicators, are not water soluble, which means they cannot be broken down by a septic tank. If you flush them down the toilet, they remain intact as they move through the system, eventually causing a clog or obstruction in the pipes. Whether you’re at home or in a public restroom, always wrap the product and toss in a trash can. 

If you experience any issues with your septic tank system, turn to the experienced team at Johnny's A-1 Sanitation in Middletown, OH, for assistance. Serving residential and commercial clients across Butler, Warren, Montgomery and Preble counties since 1949, they specialize in a variety of services, including septic maintenance, pumping, and cleaning. Give them a call at (513) 988-5880 to speak with a friendly representative about scheduling an appointment for septic maintenance or repair. You can also visit their website for more information about their full list of services.