What Not to Put in a Septic Tank
A homeowner list of items and chemicals to keep out of septic toilets and drains.
A septic system is designed for domestic wastewater and normal toilet waste—not as a disposal route for everything labeled flushable.
Do not use the toilet as a trash can
Keep wipes, paper towels, hygiene products, diapers, condoms, dental floss and other persistent solids out.
Keep hazardous chemicals out
EPA lists gasoline, oil, pesticides, antifreeze, paint and paint thinner among materials that should not enter household drains.
Watch kitchen solids
Grease and excessive food waste add to scum, sludge and plumbing problems. Scrape and dispose of them outside the septic system.
Be skeptical of 'flushable'
A marketing label does not guarantee an item breaks down like toilet paper in your plumbing and tank.