Maintaining the health of your septic system is an often overlooked yet essential aspect of home maintenance.
It’s always a good idea to pick the right cleaning products so they harmonise with your septic tank system rather than wreak havoc on it.
What does it mean if something is septic safe?
Labelling a product as “septic safe” means that the product will not disrupt the bacterial balance within your septic system.
Septic systems rely on bacteria to break down and process waste.
Products that contain harsh chemicals can kill these beneficial bacteria, leading to septic system malfunctions.
Septic safe products are designed to be biodegradable and free from chemicals that could harm your septic system.
They are also often plant-based or use organic compounds, ensuring they break down safely and efficiently within the septic tank system.
Are there specific ingredients to look for to know if a product is septic safe?
Certain ingredients can give clues as to whether household and cleaning products are septic safe or not.
Here are some key things to look for and avoid when shopping for septic-safe products:
Ingredients to Look For
- Plant-based ingredients: Many septic-safe products will use ingredients derived from plants instead of synthetic chemicals. These are typically easier for the bacteria in your septic system to break down.
- Enzymes: Some products will contain enzymes or cultures that can help to break down waste in your septic system, making them a good choice.
- Biodegradable components: Products labelled as biodegradable are generally a good option for septic systems. This means they can be broken down by bacteria and won’t contribute to the build-up in your tank.
Ingredients to Avoid
- Phosphates: These chemicals can encourage algae growth in local waterways when the treated wastewater is released, which can harm aquatic life.
- Bleach and other harsh chemicals: While they’re great at killing germs, they can also kill the beneficial bacteria in your septic system that break down waste.
- Non-biodegradable components: Some ingredients, particularly in personal care products like wipes or certain types of toilet paper, are not biodegradable and can lead to clogs in your septic system.
- Petroleum-based solvents: These can kill the beneficial bacteria in your septic system and break down slowly.
- Quaternary Ammonium Compounds (Quats): These are found in many disinfectants and sanitisers and can be harmful to septic systems as they are antibacterial agents.
- Anti-bacterial soaps and detergents: Similar to bleach, these products can kill the helpful bacteria in your septic system.
It’s always a good idea to look for products specifically labelled as septic safe.
But remember, even septic safe products can cause problems if used excessively.
Moderation is vital in maintaining a healthy septic system.
If you need more advice, consider asking a cleaning professional for tips on efficient cleaning whilst maintaining your septic tank.
What cleaning products are safe for septic systems in Australia?
Toilet Cleaner | Toilet Paper | Drain Cleaner | Shower Cleaner | Dishwasher Tablets | Dishwashing Liquid | Laundry Detergent | Washing Powder | Hand Wash | Shampoo | Conditioner | Body Wash
Septic Safe Toilet Cleaner: Ecover Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Ecover Toilet Bowl Cleaner is a septic-safe solution that doesn’t compromise cleanliness.
It is derived from plant-based and mineral ingredients and tackles stubborn stains without harsh chemicals.
The product leaves your toilet fresh, clean, and safe for your septic system.
Its bottle is made with plant plastic and is 100% recyclable, reflecting Ecover’s commitment to sustainable practices.
Septic Safe Toilet Paper: Scott 1000 Trusted Clean Toilet Paper
Scott 1000 Trusted Clean Toilet Paper is septic-safe and clog-free.
Each roll provides 1000 sheets of unscented and dermatologist-tested comfort.
It’s also safe for sewer and RV use, making it versatile and dependable.
Scott 1000 shows that sustainability and performance can coexist, providing you with an environmentally conscious choice without sacrificing quality.
Septic Safe Drain Cleaner: Green Gobbler Septic Saver Treatment Pods
Green Gobbler Septic Saver Treatment Pods are your ally for maintaining a healthy and efficient septic system.
These easy-to-use pods contain a concentrated blend of enzymes and bacteria designed to break down waste and help prevent septic backup.
They work to dissolve grease, fats, oils, paper, and organic matter that can clog your system.
Safe for all types of pipes, they are free from harmful chemicals, making them an eco-friendly option.
With a monthly treatment cycle, you’re just one flush away from peace of mind.
Septic Safe Shower Cleaner: Zero Co Bathroom & Shower Cleaner
The Zero Co Bathroom and Shower Cleaner offers an eco-friendly, septic-safe solution for bathroom cleanliness.
Its formula is strong enough to handle soap scum and grime yet gentle on your septic system.
The reusable, refillable bottles save on plastic waste, marking a significant step towards Zero Co’s mission to eliminate single-use plastic from households.
Septic Safe Dishwasher Tablets: Zero Co Dishwasher Tablets
Zero Co Dishwasher Tablets offer a powerful, eco-friendly solution for sparkling clean dishes.
These septic-safe tablets effectively cut through tough food residues, grease, and stains, leaving your dishes spotless and shiny after every cycle.
The tablets are formulated with plant-based ingredients, which are gentle on the environment yet tough on grime.
Packed in a reusable container and offering a refill option, Zero Co Dishwasher Tablets contribute significantly to reducing single-use plastic in your cleaning routine.
Septic Safe Dishwashing Liquid: Zero Co Dishwashing Liquid
Zero Co’s Dishwashing Liquid perfectly balances cleaning power and environmental consciousness.
Its powerful plant-based formula cuts through tough grease and grime while being gentle on your hands and safe for your septic system.
Septic Safe Laundry Detergent: Zero Co Laundry Liquid
Zero Co’s Laundry Liquid cleans your clothes while maintaining the health of your septic system.
This eco-friendly formula is tough on stains and odours but gentle on the environment.
In line with their commitment to reducing environmental impact, this product comes in reusable containers.
Septic Safe Washing Powder: Omo Active Clean Laundry Detergent Washing Powder
I bet you weren’t expecting to see a big-name brand on this list.
Omo Active Clean Laundry Detergent Washing Powder is a surprising but welcome addition to the list of septic-safe products.
This powerful formula removes tough stains and leaves clothes smelling fresh.
Its septic-safe and biodegradable composition demonstrates that even established brands can deliver effective cleaning power while caring for our planet.
Septic Safe Hand Wash: Zero Co Handwash Liquid
Zero Co Handwash Liquid in Red Cedarwood and Suede offers a lavish handwashing experience while being septic-safe.
The gentle, biodegradable formula cleanses hands without drying them out.
The sophisticated scent of red cedarwood and suede adds an extra touch of luxury to your daily hand washing routine.
However, if this fragrance isn’t to your liking, they also have the same eco-friendly handwash in Neroli and Basil.
Septic Safe Shampoo: Zero Co Shampoo
The Zero Co Shampoo provides a gentle and deep cleanse for all hair types without causing harm to your septic system.
Their formula is biodegradable, vegan and free from harsh chemicals.
The reusable and refillable packaging reflects Zero Co’s commitment to reducing single-use plastic.
Septic Safe Conditioner: Zero Co Conditioner
If you’re already using Zero Co’s Shampoo, you might as well complete the set and get their organic conditioner.
Zero Co offers a septic-safe conditioner that leaves hair soft, shiny and manageable.
Its biodegradable formula moisturises and detangles without weighing hair down.
Like all Zero Co products, it comes in reusable packaging, demonstrating a commitment to environmental sustainability.
Septic Safe Body Wash: Zero Co Bodywash
Enjoy a luxurious bathing experience with Zero Co’s Bodywash in Saffron and Tallowwood.
This septic-safe formula cleanses and hydrates your skin, leaving it feeling refreshed and revitalised.
With each use, the exotic scent of saffron and tallowwood transports you to a lush, aromatic escape.
If you want to smell like a beautiful summer breeze, this body wash comes in a new fragrance with Mandarin, Finger Lime and Chamomile.
The product’s eco-friendly, refillable packaging underscores Zero Co’s dedication to sustainability.
Common Questions About Septic Systems And Cleaning
Does septic safe mean flushable?
While all septic safe products are technically flushable, not all flushable items are septic safe.
For example, some wipes are labelled flushable but don’t break down in the septic system, leading to potential blockages and damage.
What is the difference between septic safe and regular toilet paper?
Septic safe toilet paper is designed to break down rapidly in water, which helps prevent clogs in the septic tank.
Regular toilet paper takes longer to decompose, potentially causing issues over time.
Can you use toilet cleaner if you have a septic tank?
Yes, you can use toilet cleaners with a septic tank, but make sure they’re septic safe.
Avoid cleaners with harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia that can disrupt the bacterial balance in the tank.
What should you not flush down the toilet with a septic tank?
Avoid flushing items like wet wipes (even those labelled flushable), diapers, sanitary products, cotton buds, cooking grease, coffee grounds, cigarettes, and any non-biodegradable items down the toilet.
These can cause blockages and disrupt the septic system’s functioning.
Common Questions About Septic Safe Products
Is bleach OK for septic?
In small amounts, bleach shouldn’t harm a septic system.
However, regular or heavy use of bleach can kill the beneficial bacteria in the tank and disrupt the system’s balance, potentially causing issues.
Is OMO septic safe?
OMO powder detergents are septic safe and should cause no harm to septic systems if used properly.
Is Who Gives A Crap septic safe?
Yes, ‘Who Gives A Crap’ toilet paper is advertised as septic safe and biodegradable.
Is Duck toilet cleaner safe for septic tanks?
Some Duck toilet cleaners may contain bleach or other harsh chemicals that could harm septic systems. Always check the product label.
Is CLR septic safe?
CLR (Calcium, Lime & Rust Remover) is typically not recommended for use with septic systems, as it may disrupt the bacterial balance in the tank.
Is Pine O Cleen safe for septic tanks?
Unfortunately, no. Pine O Cleen is an antibacterial cleaning product.
Pine O Cleen’s cleaning products have harsh chemicals that kill 99.9% of bacteria causing germs and healthy bacteria in septic systems.
Does white vinegar harm septic systems?
No, it does not. White vinegar is safe for septic systems in moderate quantities.
It’s a mild acid that won’t harm the septic tank’s bacteria.
Is apple cider vinegar safe for septic systems?
Yes, apple cider vinegar is generally safe for septic systems when used in moderation.
Like white vinegar, apple cider vinegar is a weak acid and won’t harm the beneficial bacteria that keep your septic system functioning properly.
It’s even sometimes used as a DIY treatment to maintain the health of septic systems.
Is Bref septic safe?
No, it’s not. Most Bref cleaning products claim to eliminate 99.9% of bacteria, which is generally considered unsafe for septic systems.
While the Bref website FAQ claims that their products are septic safe cleaning products, it may still be best to stick to organic solutions or ones without bleach.
Is bamboo toilet paper septic safe?
Generally, yes. Bamboo toilet paper is often marketed as a sustainable, septic-safe option that rapidly breaks down in water.
Is Drano safe for septic systems?
Regular use of Drano and other chemical drain cleaners can damage septic systems, as they can kill beneficial bacteria.
Use these products sparingly and consider septic-safe alternatives.
Is Scalex septic safe?
Yes, Scalex is a biodegradable and non-toxic solution.
It effectively breaks down food and grease deposits, detergent remnants, as well as limescale and calcium buildup.
Is citric acid safe for septic tanks?
Citric acid is generally safe for septic systems in moderate amounts.
It’s a weak, organic acid that shouldn’t harm your septic tank’s bacterial balance.
Is Dettol septic safe?
No. Dettol is another antibacterial cleaning product that can harm your septic tank’s microbiome.
