A septic system uses a tank and drain field to disperse waste in a safe, effective way. However, since it relies on bacteria and pipes, some items you flush can disrupt the delicate balance of your unit, creating clogs and overflow. To keep your septic system operating smoothly and avoid calls to the plumber, here’s a list of products that should never end up in your toilets.

Don’t Flush These Items Down the Toilet If You Have a Septic Tank

1. Dental Floss

Can something as small as dental floss clog your drain or compromise a septic tank? Yes, plumbers warn, especially over time. Floss can create a net that catches other passing materials, which creates clogs in your pipes that could lead to breakdowns or overflow.

2. Diapers & Baby Wipes

Since they contain cotton, diapers expand when exposed to fluids, which could create a blockage in your pipes. Baby wipes that claim to be flushable should also be placed in the trash, since these aren’t made of paper and so won’t decompose in a septic tank.

3. Kitty Litter

Septic systems are not equipped to deal with dehydrated or dried out animal waste. Many kitty litters don’t break down in septic systems, and over time, this will make your tank fill up faster. Low-pressure toilets also can’t push the grains all the way through the pipes, which could create instant clogs.

4. Cigarette Butts

Septic systems aren’t designed to deal with cigarette butts. Plastic tips and filters don’t easily decompose, and the chemicals in a cigarette could end up killing the bacteria inside the tank. Without the bacteria to break down the solid waste, the sludge in your tank will accumulate and possibly flood your drain field.

5. Feminine Hygiene Products

While it might seem convenient to dispose of menstrual products in a toilet, pads and tampons are also made of cotton and will swell when exposed to water. To avoid a visit from a plumber to displace a clog, place these items in the trash instead.

6. Bleach

Bleach is a harsh chemical that can kill the bacteria in a tank, causing it to malfunction. If you want to remove stains from your toilet bowl or clean it, use mild, non-toxic agents such as vinegar or biodegradable cleansers.

If you suspect you have a clog in your septic system or need other maintenance, call the plumbers at American Rooter Sewer & Septic Service in Albany, OR. They offer plumbing maintenance and installation, septic system repair and cleaning, hydro-excavating, and 24/7 plumbing repairs for emergencies. Visit them online to view a list of their septic services or call 541-926-1185 to request a quote.