What Can You Use To Clean Toilets That Drain Into Septic Tank? (Question)

Method

• Fill an empty spray bottle with normal white household vinegar and spray around the inside of the toilet bowl.
• Sprinkle a heaped tablespoon of bicarb soda into the bowl.
• Scrub the toilet thoroughly with the foaming vinegar and bicarb mixture.
• Flush the toilet and you’re done!

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• Many other products for cleaning drains, toilets and sinks contain harsh chemicals that can actually damage your septic tank. Every week, pour one cup of white vinegar down the drains, allow it to stand for at least 30 minutes, and then flush with water.

What should I use to clean my toilet if I have a septic tank?

Baking soda is a natural cleaning and deodorizing agent that is safe for your septic systems. Use every few days or as needed by sprinkling about 1 cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl and scrubbing with your toilet brush. Flush the toilet after cleaning.

Can you use bleach to clean toilet with septic tank?

Toilet bowl cleaners and bleach/chlorine based cleaners should be avoided or minimized. Look for chlorine bleach or chemical sodium hypochlorite on product labels. Using these products could result in your septic tank backing up, creating costly repairs, contaminating your drinking water, odors and much more.

What breaks down toilet paper in septic tanks?

Best Septic Tank Maintenance Product A great product is Septic Blast, which will eliminate the organic matter inside your tank. It contains beneficial enzymes that will break down toilet paper, hair and more without damaging your pipes or your septic system.

Will baking soda and vinegar hurt septic system?

Will baking soda hurt a septic system? Baking soda and other common household solutions such as vinegar are not harmful to your septic system. Harsh chemicals such as bleach and ammonia can disrupt the good bacteria in your septic tank and should not be used as part of a septic treatment.

Is Lysol hydrogen peroxide toilet bowl cleaner septic safe?

It’s safe for plumbing and septic tanks, and cleans and disinfects both above and below the water line. Angled Spout for Hard-to-Reach Areas – This bottle is easy to use in urinals and toilets of all sizes. Allow cleaner to sit for at least 10 minutes then brush the entire bowl or urinal and flush.

Is hydrogen peroxide safe for septic tanks?

Will Hydrogen Peroxide harm my septic system? No – Septic systems rely upon “aerobic bacteria” which thrive in an oxygenated environment. Unlike chlorine/bleach, Hydrogen Peroxide adds oxygen instead of removing it.

Is Dawn dish soap safe for septic systems?

One of the best know is commercials for Dawn dish soap. The ability for the cleaner to disperse oil and grease is better for cleaning, as it helps to break it up. The reason these are bad for septic systems is because if you use too much they can leach out into the environment without being properly treated.

Is Pinesol septic safe?

A: Yes! Following the recommended use of any Pine-Sol^® product will not harm your septic system.

Does vinegar dissolve toilet paper?

Does Vinegar Break Down Toilet Paper? While not typically the first thing you think of when you have a clogged toilet, some have had great success unclogging toilets using hot water, baking soda, and vinegar.

Is Charmin bad for septic tanks?

Is Charmin septic safe? Yes. Charmin is septic safe and thoroughly tested to ensure it will settle in a septic tank and then undergo biodegradation in the tank.

How long does it take toilet paper to dissolve in septic tank?

Your toilet paper should dissolve in twenty minutes or less. If it doesn’t, you may want to consider buying a different brand of toilet paper that’s better for your plumbing system.

Is pickle juice bad for septic system?

Juice from olives, pickles, etc., at normal household usage levels, will not harm a septic tank nor drainfield. Similarly, vinegar, a main ingredient in some pickle juices, disposed of at normal household usage levels won’t harm a septic tank.

What can you put in a septic tank to keep the smell down?

Septic tank odors can be fixed relatively easily. The first step is to pour one cup of baking soda down any toilet or drain. This should be done about once a week to help maintain a good pH level in the tank of 6.8 to 7.6.

Is distilled white vinegar septic safe?

For many, white vinegar is a cleaning staple. Not surprisingly, vinegar also helps control the growth of mildew and mold. By the time this natural cleaner reaches your septic tank, it’s harmless. The all-natural ingredient is safe to use on your septic system.

Toilet Cleaners That Are Safe for Septic Systems

To keep your septic tank safe, use mild cleaning products to clean your toilet bowl. When cleaning the toilet, keep in mind that you are cleaning your plumbing system. If you have a septic system, you should avoid using chemical-based cleaning solutions that you can buy at your local supermarket since these chemicals might harm your septic tank, resulting in a costly repair or replacement down the road. Instead, choose toilet cleansers that are safe and gentle, and that deodorize, clean, and destroy bacteria.

Baking Soda

A natural cleansing and deodorizing product that is suitable for use in septic systems, baking soda is a great choice. Scrub the toilet bowl with your toilet brush after every few days or as often as necessary after putting about 1 cup of baking soda into the toilet bowl. After you’ve finished cleaning, flush the toilet.

White Vinegar

White vinegar is another environmentally friendly cleaning agent that removes hard water stains while also killing microorganisms. As soon as you notice any of these symptoms, pour 2 cups of white vinegar into the toilet bowl and clean with a toilet brush before flushing it. Pour 2 cups of vinegar into a dish and let it aside overnight if you have a lot of hard water buildup and limescale deposits on your faucet. The next morning, scrub the toilet with a toilet brush and flush it again.

Lemon Juice

Lemon juice is another natural cleaning option that has acidic properties and may be used as a natural disinfectant while leaving a citrus-fresh aroma on the surface of the surface. Pour 2 cups of baking soda into the toilet and scrub with a toilet bowl brush, exactly as you would with vinegar to get rid of stains. After you’ve finished cleaning, flush your toilet.

Septic Toilet Cleaning Recipe

Cleaning a Septic Toilet with a Homemade Recipe The likelihood that your toilet is also linked to an aseptic tank is significant if you live on a large piece of property. Septic tanks on your property are analogous to having your own little sewage treatment facility. It’s a fantastic system that is reasonably simple to maintain, but there are a few things you should keep in mind while cleaning. It is critical to utilize natural cleansers that do not disrupt or kill the bacteria in the septic tank in order to guarantee that the bacteria may continue to break down the waste matter.

1. The solids in your septic tank will also begin to harden as a result of the bacteria dying.
2. If this occurs and the tank is not pumped out, the contents of the tank can gradually transform into hard dirt.
3. Please visit ourSeptic Tank Cleaning page to learn more about what an aseptic tank is and how it works.
4. Most of the time, the most effective cleansers are basic, all-natural ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen or laundry.
5. When you clean your toilets on a regular basis or as part of your regular cleaning program, this recipe is ideal.

Bicarb and vinegar are combined to form a cleaning powerhouse with disinfectant, solvent and deodorizer characteristics while remaining all-natural and mild enough not to damage the microorganisms in your tank’s water supply. Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon bicarbonate of soda (also known as baking soda or bicarbonate of soda)

• To clean the interior of the toilet bowl, fill a clean spray bottle with regular white household vinegar and spray all around it. A heaping spoonful of bicarb soda should be added to the mixing bowl. Then, using the foamy vinegar and bicarb combination, scrub the toilet bowl well. You’re finished
• Just flush the toilet.

This heavy duty cleaner is still natural, but it is more effective for thorough cleaning the toilet or eliminating tough stains than the previous one. Ingredients

• To clean the interior of the toilet bowl, fill a clean spray bottle with regular white household vinegar and spray all around it. Sprinkle the borax into the toilet bowl, paying particular attention to the discolored areas
• And Allow the mixture to work on the stains for a few minutes before continuing. The toilet should be scrubbed thoroughly with the solution of foamy vinegar and borax
• If you still discover that there are persistent stains in the toilet that won’t come out, leave the mixture in the toilet for a few hours to allow it to permeate the spots before scrubbing.

Remember that simply cleaning the toilet with natural cleansers will not suffice to maintain your system healthy if there are additional elements entering your septic system that are not beneficial to the system. More information on how to maintain your septic tank, as well as what you may flush down the toilet, can be found on our Septic Tank Cleaning page. In a well working septic tank, microorganisms will gradually break down the particles, resulting in a buildup of sludge at the bottom of the tank.

We can test your tank to evaluate the amount of sludge present and indicate whether or not a pump out is required.

Natalie Cooper is a model and actress who has appeared in a number of films and television shows.

Septic Safe Products and the Ones to Avoid

In addition to being an ecologically favorable option for homeowners, a septic safe wastewater treatment system is sometimes the only option for cottages and rural residences that are not connected to the municipal sewage system. In addition, it implies that what you flush down the toilet is significantly more crucial, and this includes your cleansers and other household products. Continue reading to discover more about septic systems and how your cleaning products might have an impact on their operation.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE “SEPTIC SAFE”?

If you were born and reared in a city, it’s likely that you have little awareness about septic tanks and systems. Septic systems are an alternate drainage solution for rural households that do not have access to centralized sewage infrastructure. To answer all of your questions, Septic Systems are a type of drainage system. They transport waste and water from a residence to a specialized septic tank, where microorganisms are used to separate waste from the surrounding water. This type of tank makes use of perforated pipes that discharge the water into a piece of soil known as a drainage field.

As a closed-loop system, septic systems are useful in the Zero Waste Movement’s attempts to reduce waste.

WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE SEPTIC SYSTEMS

The advantage of using a septic tank over a sewage system is that they are significantly less expensive and more durable. Because it is a closed system that does not require any external energy, it does not produce a monthly cost and can endure for decades before it has to be upgraded. Septic systems make a good contribution to the health and well-being of the local ecosystem from an environmental perspective. During the process of pushing water through a drain field, it serves to nourish local bacteria and microorganisms, which in turn supports the growth of both plants and bacteria in the area.

• As a result, if toxins-containing items are introduced into these systems, they can have severe consequences not just for the mechanisms of the tank, but also for the entire ecosystem.
• Septic systems are not designed to protect groundwater from the chemicals contained in some home items.
• When purchasing new appliances, look for ones that are most suited for septic systems, such as high-efficiency toilets or washing machines that are Energy Star certified.
• Please choose natural laundry detergent that is made for both high-efficiency and normal machines.
• There are several natural alternatives to synthetic disinfectants that are safe for use in a septic system, for example.

Some of the stronger natural disinfectants, such as hydrogen peroxide and thyme oil, may still need to be diluted with water before being injected into the system due to their intensity; this is especially true for the thyme oil.

HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS TO AVOID

Water softeners are devices that soften water.

• Water softeners have the potential to damage the microorganisms in the septic tank, resulting in higher amounts of waste and grease being released into the drain field.

Oil, gasoline, paint thinners, solvents, photography chemicals, weed or bug killers are just a few examples of what you may get away with.

• It is possible that these pollutants will poison Septic Systems and endanger the water supply.

Using Cooking Oil

• It is possible for solidified frying fat, such as that from bacon, to build up in the tank and cause blockages in the entering and exiting pipes.

• While these oils are pleasant to the touch, they have the potential to block the drain field and coat the waste within the tank, making it ineffective at decomposition.

Kitty Litter is a type of litter that is used for cats.

• The majority of kitty litter is made of clay, which can block pipes.

CLEANING PRODUCTS TO AVOID

Cleaners and disinfectants that are antibacterial

• Antibacterial and disinfectant products are not required in most household circumstances (they were originally developed to sanitize hospitals), and they will kill beneficial bacteria that aid in the proper functioning of your septic tank.

Chlorine Bleach is a kind of disinfectant.

• A septic tank’s microorganisms might be killed or disrupted if it receives too much bleach. Additionally, it is hazardous to aquatic life. It is very likely that the bleach from your wastewater is being released directly into the groundwater if your septic tank is located close to a natural water system
• If your septic tank is located close to a natural water system, it is very likely that the bleach from your wastewater is being released directly into the groundwater through your septic system.

Drain Cleaners that are chemical in nature

• When these materials are used to unclog the drain, they destroy the microorganisms in the tank, resulting in the need for expensive repairs.

Products containing methylisothiazolinone are referred to as

• Methylisothiazolinoneis a synthetic compound utilized in consumer items for its antibacterial characteristics. It is most often applied to cleaning products as a synthetic preservative. Not only is it a common allergen, but several studies have shown that it is also toxic to aquatic life

SEPTIC SAFE CLEANING PRODUCTS

Natural ingredients at their best.

• Please remember that your septic tank does not filter out chemicals or pollutants, and that the waste it produces is returned directly into the surrounding ecosystem. This is why it is critical to utilize natural cleansers that will not contribute to the rising quantity of synthetic chemicals that are severely harming our natural environment.

Biodegradable

• Product formulations should only contain biodegradable substances that will degrade in a natural setting, rather than persistent synthetic compounds that might accumulate in a product. Inquire as to whether your cleaning products, especially those used on a regular basis such as dishwasher detergents, are truly non-toxic and completely biodegradable.

Certified by a third party

• It is critical to seek third-party certification that the items that flow through your septic system and into the environment will not have a harmful influence on the ecosystem. Examples of such organizations are Ecocert and The Environmental Working Group. By doing so, you may be confident that the items you select are truly better for the environment and are not merely making unfounded “green” claims for the sake of branding. To determine which products are best for your septic system, see the Environmental Working Group’s Healthy Cleaning Guide rating.

SEPTIC SAFE CLEANING PRODUCTS LIST

Septic systems are quite fragile. A 1,000-gallon septic tank may be completely decontaminated with just two gallons of chlorine bleach, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. While even a tiny amount of the wrong chemicals may cause havoc on your septic system, the majority of all-natural cleansers are safe to use on your system. Natural cleaning solutions that are non-chlorine, non-ammonia, non-antibacterial, non-toxic, and biodegradable can assist you in keeping your septic system in good operating condition.

• Baking soda, borax, and salt are all ingredients in distilled white vinegar.

SEPTIC SAFE BATHROOM CLEANERS

While it’s simple to utilize all-natural cleaning solutions in the majority of places of your house, the bathroom is one area where chemical cleansers are almost always a given. A clean bathroom is crucial for your health, but cleaning your shower, tub and other bathroom surfaces does not require the use of harsh chemicals to get the desired results. These natural bathroom cleansers are highly effective and do not harm septic systems:

• The natural enzymes in white vinegar will break down soap scum and foul smells
• White vinegar is inexpensive and readily available. Baking soda – The abrasive texture of baking soda is ideal for polishing brass bathroom fittings. To get optimum disinfection power on surfaces, mix 12 cup of borax with 12 cup of water.

TOILET CLEANERS SAFE FOR SEPTIC SYSTEMS

The toilet is infamous for being a filthy environment. It might be tempting to use strong cleaning agents to ensure that germs are completely destroyed. Many toilet bowl cleaners contain bleach, and others are even formulated with hydrochloric acid to remove stains from the bowl. Natural, plant-based cleansers, on the other hand, are robust enough to clean your toilet while still being the safest for the health of your septic system and the health of your family. Make sure to avoid using cleansers that include hazardous ingredients such as harmful bleach or ammonia as well as phosphates and petroleum-based compounds, which can disrupt your septic system.

Here is a list of natural toilet cleansers that are safe to use in a septic tank:

• Baking soda is a scouring agent that is both affordable and effective. Pour half of a small box of baking soda into the toilet bowl and leave it to rest for at least an hour. Immediately after mixing, flush the liquid down the toilet before cleaning it with a toilet brush. White Hard water stains in the toilet bowl may be broken down with the aid of household vinegar, which has a high acidity. Pour one cup of vinegar into the bowl and let it aside overnight. In the morning, scrape the surface. If you use baking soda along with the vinegar, you’ll find that their effects cancel each other out and become ineffectual.

SEPTIC SAFE CLEANING

Natural cleaning solutions are generally considered to be safe for use in septic systems. Take the guesswork out of selecting items for use in septic systems by using a product comparison chart. “Septic Safe” is a label that appears on products that are safe for use in septic systems. Most of these materials are natural and biodegradable, and they will appropriately degrade within the tank without interfering with the bacteria’s ability to function. Consumer items such as housekeeping and cleaning products are one of the most serious threats to septic systems.

Being environmentally conscious means using items that are safe for septic tanks and taking responsibility for what you put in the water and the soil.

Products that you use on a regular basis, such as laundry detergent and dish soap, should be handled with extra caution. Even if you have centralized sewage, use septic-safe products to keep your home and yard clean.

SEPTIC SAFE CLEANERS: FAQ

In the world of septic systems, there is contradicting information regarding what is safe and what is potentially dangerous. Here, we clarify the air on some often asked issues about septic cleaners:

1. IS VINEGAR SAFE FOR SEPTIC SYSTEMS?

Vinegar is completely harmless to septic systems and will not do any damage to them. White vinegar and apple cider vinegar are wonderful cleaning tools that may be used throughout the house, including the laundry room, kitchen, bathroom, and other areas. Because it is non-toxic and 100 percent natural, vinegar of any kind is completely safe for your septic system and your household.

2. WHAT DRAIN CLEANERS ARE SAFE FOR SEPTIC SYSTEMS?

Drain cleaners are famously harsh because they are required to be so. It might require a significant amount of force to break through the buildup in pipes. However, only a few drain cleaners, when used in moderation, are suitable for septic systems. Drain cleaners that foam, solidify, or crystallize can cause harm to the system and should not be utilized. To avoid causing harm to the system, use septic-safe liquid drain cleaning only when absolutely necessary. Non-chemical methods such as a pipe snake can be used to safely clear clogged drains that have become stubborn.

SAFE SEPTIC CLEANING WITH ASPENCLEAN

To ensure that all of their laundry detergents and cleaning chemicals are completely septic-safe, AspenClean employs the same natural, biodegradable, and ecologically friendly cleaning materials as they use in their professional cleaning service. It is possible to ensure that your home will receive a high-quality clean while not causing damage to your septic system by utilizing natural laundry detergents, dish soaps, as well as their house cleaning services and supplies.

CLR® Healthy Septic System

• The only septic system treatment to be paired with thePart of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Safer Choice Program, which recognizes the product as a safer alternative to typical chemicals. It works instantaneously, can be used at any time of day, and its revolutionary stabilization method allows live, active bacteria to be put into the septic system. It is available in seven different treatments for systems up to 2000 gallons in capacity. Unlike rivals’ products, this revolutionary composition does not contain any detergents, preservatives, or inactive “carriers” that germs might adhere to while in use
• Instead, it contains only natural ingredients. In comparison to dry septic system treatments, which can only be flushed down toilets, this product may be put down any drain and contains more environmentally friendly components. The precise stability of good bacteria required to help maintain your system working at peak efficiency is restored by this treatment. Solid organic waste such as detergents, soaps, grease, and paper may pile up in your septic tank and must be broken down before it can be securely disposed of into the earth. All of the components of the CLR Healthy Septic System are ecologically friendly. Safe for use on all types of pipes, drains, and porcelain

Look for CLR Healthy Septic System in these sizes

• Directly into any toilet or drain pipe, pour 4 ounces of the solution. Do not combine with any other type of chemical drain cleaning solution. It is most effective when taken during periods of low water consumption.

In accordance with the California Cleaning Products Right to Know Act, it was found that this product did not need to be disclosed.

Water	CAS7732-18-5	Meets EPA Safer Choice Criteria
CAS7732-18-5. Reverse Osmosis (RO) is a water treatment process that removes contaminants from water by passing the water through a membrane, (filter), where contaminants are filtered out yielding more pure quality water.
Sodium Nitrate	CAS7631-99-4	Meets EPA Safer Choice Criteria
CAS7631-99-4. It can be used as an additive in industrial greases, as an aqueous solution in closed loop cooling systems, and in a molten state as a heat transfer medium. It is also a common food preservative.
Pseudomonas Putida	CAS68332-91-2	Meets EPA Safer Choice Criteria
Monoammonium Phosphate	CAS7722-76-1	Meets EPA Safer Choice Criteria
Sodium Thiosulfate	CAS10102-17-7	Meets EPA Safer Choice Criteria

This product may include one or more of the following ingredients:

Red No. 40	CAS25956-17-6	Meets EPA Safer Choice Criteria
YellowNo. 5	CAS1934-21-0	Meets EPA Safer Choice Criteria
CAS1934-21-0. A synthetic lemon yellow dye used all over the world, primarily as food coloring.As part of theEPA Safer Choice Program, it has been evaluated and determined to be safer than traditional chemical ingredients.
Acid Blue No.1	CAS3844-45-9	Meets EPA Safer Choice Criteria
CAS3844-45-9. A blue dye used for foods and other substances.As part of theEPA Safer Choice Program, it has been evaluated and determined to be safer than traditional chemical ingredients.

How do I use CLR Healthy Septic System?

In addition to being safe on pipes and porcelain, CLR Healthy Septic System is effective on fats, oils, grease, and other difficult organic debris. A septic system is a type of subterranean wastewater treatment system that is self-contained. A septic tank and a leach/absorption area are the two main components of a septic system.

What is a septic system’s purpose in the household?

The tank’s primary function is to handle waste generated in the home. When the waste is placed in the tank, the water drains to the bottom, the lighter solids rise to the top, and the heavier waste/sludge sinks to the bottom, resulting in effective waste treatment. The sludge/solids that settle to the bottom of the tank must be treated with a septic system treatment in order to transform these materials into liquids, which will then flow to the drain field below.

Are Baking Soda and Vinegar Safe for Septic Systems?

The answer to this question is an unequivocal “yes!” We get a lot of inquiries regarding cleaners and best practices in septic systems, and this one is simple — the answer is an unequivocal “yes!”

Baking soda and vinegar are safe

Using baking soda and vinegar as drain cleaners is both safe and effective, and, best of all, they are completely safe for your septic tank and drain field to use. Bleach and ammonia-based cleansers (which include most of the products in the cleaning aisle of big-box retailers) can be hazardous to the beneficial microorganisms in your septic tank.

Instead of killing the beneficial bacteria in your tank, baking soda and vinegar help to keep your septic system running efficiently for far longer periods of time and with less maintenance necessary.

How to use baking soda and vinegar

Consequently, you may be asking how to clean with baking soda and vinegar in your home environment. Here are a few of our favorite ways to utilize these powerful and economical cleansers in your kitchen and bathroom, in no particular order: Drains that become clogged are a big nuisance. Even if your septic system is not backed up, it is crucial to keep an eye out for indicators of a problem. Baking soda may be used to clear tenacious filth from your pipes, which may be causing minor backups. A couple of teaspoons of baking soda and a cup or two of boiling water should suffice (you can also add white vinegar for a bit more punch).

It’s an excellent method to avoid the high cost of a plumber’s visit as well as the inconvenience of blocked drains – so give it a shot first!

These work as a toilet bowl cleaner as well

These natural cleansers are also effective as a toilet bowl cleaning, which is rather remarkable! For this reason, a combination of baking soda and liquid castile soap is recommended by the manufacturer. You may have heard of castile soap, but you may not be aware of the reasons behind its cult-like appeal. Many people swear by the cleansing abilities of castile soap, as well as the fact that it is non-toxic – despite the fact that it is a vegetable-based soap that is devoid of animal fats and synthetic additives.

To clean a toilet bowl, liberally sprinkle it with baking soda and flush it down the toilet.

When used as a scouring agent for sinks, showers, tubs, and countertops, baking soda is quite effective.

You won’t even miss the toxic conventional cleansers you used to use after adding basic white vinegar and liquid castile soap to your cleaning arsenal.

You don’t have to harm your septic tank

Cleaning our kitchens and bathrooms is a necessary, but it does not have to be done at the expense of your septic system. Thank you for reading, and please do not hesitate to contact us at any time if you have any septic tank inquiries or to arrange a septic tank pumping or cleaning. We’re more than delighted to assist you.

Ask the Builder: Removing toilet stains requires extra care with a septic system

I’ve relocated to an existing, though unfamiliar to me, residence. When we looked at the property a month ago, the toilets appeared to be in decent condition. However, they are now soiled. They have a dreadful appearance. Because this house is on a septic system, I’m concerned about what products I should use to clean them. My toilets have been washed with a toilet brush, but a solid white deposit that has formed deep within the bowls has refused to budge. So, should I just go out and get some new toilets for the house?

• A professional plumber, I’ve honed my skills over the years and created a method for removing nearly any stain known to man or woman.
• Do not attempt to clean a toilet with a metal scraper, spoon, rod, or other instrument.
• Only in exceptional circumstances have I had to resort to using a piece of wood to scrape obstinate deposits from a toilet bowl or from the holes beneath the bowl’s rim using a scraper.
• The solid white coating you describe is most likely a result of lime or hard-water buildup.
• In my home, we have issues with orange bacteria that thrive in our toilets and are difficult to get rid of.
• I have no idea where these orange germs are coming from, but they appear to be completely safe.
• Unless the water is particularly hard, lime deposits tend to form far more slowly than other types of deposits.

Hundreds of people have contacted me over the years with complaints about toilets that used to flush well but no longer do.

For a powerful flush, the water in the toilet tank must be able to flow quickly into the bowl through the perforations in the tank.

As a result, the flush is feeble.

You can see chlorine bleach or the chemical sodium hypochlorite listed on product labels; they are one and the same thing.

I like to begin my toilet cleaning process with oxygen bleach rather than regular bleach.

Only a spoonful should be used, and then you should walk away from the toilet for around 30 minutes.

As the oxygen bleach dissolves, it releases oxygen ions into the water, which operate on their own to remove a wide range of stains from clothing and surfaces.

Your septic system will appreciate the oxygen bleach since the oxygen aids in the survival and growth of the microorganisms within the tank.

Vinegar is a type of acetic acid that is relatively weak.

It may be necessary to use a stronger acid if the white vinegar fails to produce results.

It will not damage the porcelain toilet, but its fumes are hazardous, and the liquid acid may and will burn you if you come into contact with it.

Putting muriatic acid into your septic system or into a public sewer system is not something you want to do.

This may be accomplished by swiftly dumping a pail of water into a bowl of cereal.

Pour one part muriatic acid to five parts water into the toilet bowl, gently pouring the solution down the toilet.

If you add any more than that, it will be flushed down the drain pipe and into your septic tank.

Reduce the height of the toilet seat cover to prevent animals from coming into contact with the harmful solution.

Close the bathroom door and post a sign informing people of the noxious brew that has accumulated in the toilet.

After the soaking process is complete, check to see if the solidified lime deposit has been removed.

Wear rubber gloves, old clothing, and complete goggles over your eyes to protect your eyes from the sun.

The acid maker will provide you with specific instructions on how to neutralize the substance on the product label.

He may be reached through his website, which can be found here. In order for us to receive money from connecting to Amazon.com and related sites, we have joined the Amazon Services LLC Associates Network, which is an affiliate advertising program.

My Toilet is Overflowing! How Can I Unclog It When I’m Using a Septic System?

It is never recommended to utilize drain cleaners or chemical clog removal solutions when you are dealing with a septic system. It is possible that these chemicals will harm your septic tank by killing enzymes and bacteria that help to break down waste in your tank. However, if your toilet is blocked or overflowing, you may be unsure of what to do if you do not have access to these drain cleaners. Here are a few methods for unclogging your toilet that do not need the use of chemical drain cleaning solutions.

1. If you have a toilet, you should always have a plunger and/or a snake on available to deal with any emergencies.
2. A plunger is a tool that employs suction to force air down the toilet and clear clogs from the system.
3. Used correctly, these two tools will be able to clear the vast majority of blockages that you may encounter in your toilet.
4. Bring a big pot of water to about boiling temperature on the stovetop, then pour it into the center of your toilet bowl.
5. Allow the water to make its way through your toilet before flushing the toilet.
6. Never use boiling water because the water may be too hot and can cause cracking in porcelain that is too cold.
7. It is safe to use on a septic system because it is made of natural ingredients.
8. After the baking soda has had time to settle, pour two cups of white vinegar over the top.
9. The fizzing motion will aid in the dislodgmentation of any obstructions within your toilet.
10. The objects you flush down your toilet and down your drains can all have an influence on your septic system’s performance.
11. Items such as toilet paper, shampoo, cleaning supplies, laundry detergent, and dish detergent fall under this classification.

How to Naturally Clean & Maintain Your Septic System

Without the proper knowledge, septic systems may be difficult to keep up with and manage. If you suspect that your toilets aren’t flushing properly or that your pipes may need some cleaning, you should avoid introducing harsh chemicals into your septic system since they can disturb the naturally existing biome of bacteria that is necessary for the system to work effectively.

Our team at Fagone Plumbing was inspired to publish a blog post that would teach readers how to add a natural cleanse to their septic system without endangering the system’s performance.

Simple, Quick Cleanse

This procedure is a quick, mild remedy that is also effective. It is very simple to use. It is necessary to use the power of baking soda, vinegar, and lemon to achieve success with this procedure. Starting with a quarter-cup baking soda and a half-cup vinegar mixture, pour it directly into the toilet. Repeat this process several times. After that, squeeze in two teaspoons of lemon juice. A chemical reaction occurs when the baking soda and vinegar are mixed, resulting in a fizzing sound and the breakdown of grime and debris.

Following a flush, this solution will clean the inside of your toilet bowl and the pipes that run through your system as a result.

Homemade Septic Tank Treatment

As previously stated in this article, healthy bacteria are required to guarantee that your septic system is operating effectively. Because of the bacteria in your system, sediments are broken down more quickly, allowing for simpler movement to the leach field. In addition, it is beneficial when it comes time to have your septic system pumped. The following are the elements that will be necessary for this natural solution: Water, sugar, cornmeal, and dry yeast are the main ingredients. Prepare the combination by first heating around a half gallon of water until it comes to a boil.

• Because the sugar will function as the initial food source for your bacteria!
• Allow the cornmeal to absorb the water before mixing everything together until it is well mixed.
• Once everything has been blended, pour the mixture into the toilet and flush it.
• That way, you may be certain that the mixture is pushed all the way into your septic tank.
• Upon completion of this treatment, your tank should have returned to a healthy bacterial environment.

Fagone Plumbing Can Help!

If you have any reason to believe your septic system may be performing better, give Fagone Plumbing a call right away! It doesn’t matter if it’s a bacteria problem or something else; we will be able to assess the problem and deliver the most cost-effective solution to get your septic system back up and running correctly!

How to make DIY septic safe products

The majority of industrial cleaning solutions are formulated with poisonous and harsh chemicals that are harmful to the septic tank’s environment. This is due to the fact that the harsh chemicals can either impede or completely eliminate the beneficial microorganisms in the septic tank. For example, commercial toilet bowl cleaners are often made with bleach and hydrochloric acid as active ingredients. The acid is employed in cleansers because it is extremely effective in dissolving calcium carbonate, which is present in a lot of wastewater.

In order to prevent the liquification of organic waste in the septic tank, it is in your best interest to only use items that are septic-safe in nature. Here are some suggestions on how to produce septic-safe items at home.

DIY septic safe toilet bowl cleaner

Ingredients

• 1 cup white vinegar
• 12 teaspoon tea tree essential oil (or any other pure organic oil)
• 12 cup baking soda

Combine all of the ingredients in a spray bottle that has been cleaned and dried. Allow several minutes to pass after the ingredients have been well combined before scraping the interior of the bowl with a brush to remove any remaining bits of flour or sugar. If your toilet has persistent stains that refuse to come out after you’ve cleaned them with your homemade toilet cleaner, you may produce a stronger cleaner by adding additional baking soda to the mixture you’ve made.

Making stronger DIY septic safe toilet clean (for stubborn stains)

Ingredients

• 1 cup of white vinegar
• 34 cup of baking soda
• 20 drops of tea tree essential oil (or any other pure organic oil)

In a spray bottle, combine the components and spray the interior of the bowl with the resulting cleaner to disinfect it. In order to remove persistent stains, spray the bowl and allow it to sit for a few hours – or even overnight – before scrubbing it clean with warm water and rinsing well.

DIY septic safe drain cleaner

Ingredients

• 12 cup baking soda, 1 cup white vinegar, 1 gallon of boiling water, and a quarter lemon are all you need.

Using a funnel, pour in the baking soda followed by the vinegar, and then wait a few minutes for the combination to froth in the system before adding your hot water to the drain. Once a week, you may apply this drain cleaning technique to keep your drain from becoming clogged.

DIY septic-safe bath and tile cleaner

When it comes to cleaning the bath and the tiles, there are five different natural solutions that you may employ to do the task. These are the ones:

• Use baking soda in the same manner that you would scouring powder, and then massage with a moist sponge to remove any remaining baking soda. It should be completely rinsed with clean water. Cleaning your bathtubs with vinegar and baking soda – If you have film accumulation on your bathtubs, soak a sponge in vinegar and then clean the bathtub, paying particular attention to the problem areas
• Use vinegar to eliminate filth and grime without the need for scrubbing, and it does not leave a film behind. 14 cup of vinegar for every 4 liters of water is a good ratio, but you can increase the quantity of vinegar if you are dealing with very persistent stains. Baking soda – When cleaning grout, baking soda is an excellent choice. 3 cups baking soda should be poured into a large mixing basin, followed by 1 cup warm water. Mix thoroughly until you have a smooth consistency, and then clean the grout with a toothbrush or a sponge to remove any remaining residue. Lemon – you may also rub lemon juice into the problem region and then rinse it well with water before drying it with a soft and clean towel.

DIY septic safe cleaner for showerheads

Showerheads may be cleaned effectively with vinegar and water. The manner in which you combine these materials will, however, be determined by the type of showerhead you have.

• In order to clean metal showerheads, combine 12 cup white vinegar with a gallon of water, submerge the showerhead in the solution, and bring it to a boil for 15 minutes. As a result, any deposits that may have accumulated in your metal shower head should be removed. In order to clean plastic showerheads, combine one part vinegar with one part hot water, then submerge the showerhead and allow it to soak for at least one hour.

DIY septic safe laundry detergent

Ingredients

• Soap (e.g., Dr. Bronner’s, Ivory, etc.)
• Washing soda
• Natural unscented bar soap

Grate your bar soap or blend it in a food processor to make it easier to use. As soon as you’ve finished, combine 2 parts washing soda with 1 part grated soap and store the mixture in a tightly sealed jar. It’s time to put your soap to work — you may use 2 teaspoons to a quarter cup for each load of clothing you wash.

For making liquid septic safe soap

Grated soap should be placed in a pan with 2 quarts of water, and the water should be gradually heated while stirring the soap until it dissolves. After it has dissolved, combine 4.5 gallons of hot water and 2 cups of washing soda in a bucket, stirring constantly, until everything is well mixed. After that, you may transfer the soap mixture to a larger bucket, stir it again, and then cover it and let it for at least an hour. After it has been allowed to settle overnight, mix it again until it has a smooth consistency, and then pour it into other containers.

An alternative to DIY cleaning products

Despite the fact that producing DIY septic safe items is pretty simple, there is an option for people who prefer an even simpler solution. If you don’t want to fiddle with the chemicals, you may just buy biological cleaning solutions instead. They are often created from enzymes and bacteria, making them quite safe for the septic system to use in a residential setting. For example, SeptiCleanfrom Bio-Sol is an enzyme and bacteria-based cleanser that may be used for a variety of tasks. Because it is in liquid form, all you have to do is spray it on the issue area and it will take care of the rest.

It is also adaptable to all solid surfaces, which means that it can be used to clean just about anything with relative ease. It also contains a sweet floral aroma, which means that your surface will not only be sparkling clean, but it will also have a pleasant scent to it.

Conclusion

Cleaning goods are limited in their selection for septic system owners, who do not have the luxury of choosing. Surfactants, quats (quaternary ammonium compounds), hydrochloric acid, and other chemical products that are very hazardous to bacteria are found in the majority of commercial cleaning solutions. You should refrain from using such goods since they will endanger the health of your septic system and should be avoided. DIY septic-safe products, such as the ones mentioned above, can be created at home, or you can purchase pre-made biological cleaning agents.

Maintain Your Septic System Naturally

On December 5, 2020, the information was updated. However, while this isn’t an enjoyable topic for polite discussion, having your septic system back up into your home is far from pleasant. There are actions that you can do to not only avoid septic issues in the future, but also to guarantee that the process of breaking down flushed waste proceeds as it should.

A Well-Functioning Septic System

The title of this article may be “The Care and Maintenance of the Gut in Your Yard,” which would be more descriptive. Understanding the necessity and advantages of eating dietary fiber, alkaline-forming foods, and taking probiotics for your own gut health will help you recognize the similarities between keeping a healthy septic system and maintaining a healthy digestive system. There are some items that you should avoid putting into any septic system, just as there are certain substances that are favorable to putting into our own digestive systems.

If you wait until there is a problem, you have waited too long and should contact a septic cleaning firm to pump your tank immediately.

Septic System Care and Maintenance Tips:

• A family of four living in a house with a 1,000-gallon tank should have their septic system cleaned every four years, according to the EPA. Inquire with your local septic cleaning firm about how frequently you should contact them
• Avoid using bleach-containing solutions to clean your toilets since it kills the bacteria that are necessary for the breakdown of waste particles in your septic system. Try this all-natural toilet cleanser
• It works great.

• When you add yeast to your septic system, it helps to aggressively break down waste particles, which is beneficial. Using the first time, flush a 12-cup package of dried baking yeast down the toilet. After the initial addition, add 14 cup of instant yeast every 4 months for the next 4 months. For those who are planning to install or have their existing septic system pumped, it’s a good idea to know precisely where it is in your yard so that you don’t have to dig up a lot of your lawn when the system is pumped in the future. With a tape measure, measure the precise distance between the septic tank lid and the home, and then snap a photo of the exact distance with your mobile phone to prove you were accurate. Maintain a copy of the snapshot in a home maintenance file on your computer for future reference.

Deborah Tukua

Deborah Tukua is a natural living and healthy lifestyle writer who has written seven non-fiction books, including Naturally Sweet Blender Treats. She lives in Hawaii with her family. Since 2004, she has contributed to the Farmers’ Almanac as a writer.

Keep Exploring

Cleaning products for septic tanks have been shown to reduce the efficacy of the tank. Beneficial bacteria are required by the septic system in order to break down waste. The proper maintenance of a septic system maintains the tank operational and lowers the likelihood of wastewater backing up into the toilet.

Preventive Maintenance

A septic system must be pumped out on a regular basis since part of the stuff in the tank will not break down. According to Mother Earth News, no device can completely eliminate the need to pump the tank. Allowing a buildup of waste to collect in the tank has the potential to block the system and cause harm to the septic field.

An yearly examination, as well as a regular pump out, can assist to avoid costly difficulties in the future. Items such as paper towels, baby wipes, and feminine hygiene products should not be flushed since they might block the plumbing system.

Unclogging the Toilet

A clogged toilet is a different problem from a clogged septic system. If you’re wondering if a septic system product would work to remove a toilet clog in a hurry, the answer is no. Septic system products are not designed to clear blockages and are thus unlikely to be of use. Even chemical drain cleaners – items designed to unclog plumbing – are only effective in clearing small obstructions from the system. When it comes to unclogging a blocked toilet, a plunger or a toilet snake are both preferable options.

Fluidmaster 8202 Automatic Toilet Bowl Cleaner – Septic Tank Safe

Alternatively, you may purchase this product directly from Fluidmaster at the following link:Shop Fluidmaster. You may now arrange your order for refills only from Fluidmaster for delivery at a time that is convenient for you. To understand more about the steps involved in scheduling your refill orders, please see the following link: Orders for refills should be scheduled. Anyone who uses a septic system understands the need of using a toilet cleaner that is safe for the system. Fluidmaster’s 8202 Flush ‘n Sparkle toilet bowl cleanser, which is self-cleaning, is the ideal solution for toilets that are connected to septic tanks.

• Similar to the blue refill, with the exception that the septic -safe 8202 toilet cleaner contains enzymes to assist in the breakdown of solid waste
• And Every time you flush your toilet, it will automatically clean itself. Cleaning without the use of a scrubber or your hands
• Simple to change — takes less than a minute
• 2 Septic Tank Bio Balance® cleaning cartridge refills for up to 6 months of cleaning
• Septic Tank cartridges remove the need for cleaning solutions and tablets
• 2 Septic Tank Bio Balance® cleaning cartridge refills
• Stains may be removed without causing damage to toilet components. Refills are compatible with both the Bleach and Blue Cleaning Systems.

Please visit the following link to obtain our free guide to repairing common toilet problems: Instructions on how to repair a Fluidmaster toilet For more information on how to arrange your refill orders, please watch the video below or visit this page. Orders for refills should be scheduled. More information can be found at Flushing and cleaning the toilet using FluidmasterFlush ®’s ‘n SparkleTM Self-Cleaning Toilet System is a simple and effective hands-free cleaning option for virtually any toilet.

Specifically, the Flush ‘n SparkleTM Septic Tank Refill Cartridges are intended to swiftly replace worn-out cartridges and to work with either the Blue or Bleach Septic Tank Systems.

Using the Flush ‘n SparkleTM Septic Tank Cleaning System, a strong Bio Balance® cleaning solution is sent directly into the overflow tube of the flush valve, assisting in the maintenance of your septic tank.

Allow the toilet to clean itself while you relax.

Display Fewer Objects To learn more about why Flush ‘n SparkleTM is the finest solution for cleaning your toilet, watch this video: If you want to see how simple it is to install the Flush ‘n SparkleTM, have a look at this video:

What can you put down a septic system?

What you put into your septic system has a significant impact on its capacity to perform its function. Your septic system contains live organisms that break down and treat waste as it moves through it. As a general guideline, you should avoid disposing of anything in your septic system that might just as easily be disposed of in the garbage can. This guideline applies to both the bathroom and the kitchen in your home.

bathroom waste

No wipe, not even flushable wipes, is safe to use in a septic system. They have the potential to completely degrade a septic system in as little as three years of frequent use. Eighty percent of backups are caused by heavy, multi-ply toilet paper; as a result, it is advisable to use single-ply or thin, 2-ply toilet paper whenever possible.

• Make use of the proper techniques of disposal. Toilet paper and wastewater are flushed down the toilet. Everything else should be disposed of in the garbage pail. Do not flush paper towels, cigarette butts, sanitary and baby wipes, tampon applicators, condoms, disposable diapers, or anything else that is plastic or non-biodegradable down the toilet or into your septic tank. Keep an eye out for wipes in particular, as none of them are septic-safe. Use household cleansers (bleach, toilet cleaner, and so on) solely according to the directions on the label. When these chemicals are used excessively, they might cause damage to your septic system. Be mindful that any medication that has not been used should be disposed of at a drugstore. Installing water-saving toilets will help you save money by lowering the amount of water you use per flush. Water-saving toilets utilize just 1.6 gallons of water every flush, as opposed to the 3-5 gallons per flush used by a standard toilet
• They are also more energy efficient. Additionally, faucets and showerheads that conserve water should be purchased. These things have the potential to reduce water use by 50%
• As soon as you spot a problem with your toilet or faucet, call a plumber to fix it. A toilet that continues to flush after it has been flushed can waste between 5 and 10 gallons of water each hour. Leaks can cost you as much as $240 each year in repair and replacement. Do not let the water to run needlessly as this will cost you a lot of money. Only turn it on if you want to use it
• Else leave it off.

kitchen waste

• It is important not to flush large amounts of food down the drain while washing your dishes. Before rinsing, always scrape coffee grounds, scraps, and other debris into the trash bin. Never flush anything down the toilet, including paint, gasoline, bug or weed killer, and so on. These poisonous compounds can contaminate your septic system and, in certain situations, cause damage to the nearby water supply system. Cooking fat (such as bacon grease) should not be flushed down the toilet. It has the potential to thicken inside the drain and cause obstruction. When cleaning out your drain, avoid using solutions that contain chemical ingredients. Make use of your waste disposal in the manner intended. It is not a garbage bin in any way! Always select the garbage can over the sink if an item can be disposed of in that manner. There are trash disposals that are particularly built for use with a septic system, such as the InSinkErator Evolution Septic Assist 34 HP Household Garbage Disposal, which is available from Amazon. Each time you use these disposals, enzymes are released into the environment. Instead of putting dishes in the sink, scrape them into the garbage. Make use of a drain catcher to avoid an excessive amount of scraps from going down the sink drain. If you have a water softener, it is unlikely that it will have an adverse effect on your septic system
• Nonetheless, you should check with your specialist to be sure.

the laundry room

• When shopping for a washing machine, seek for one that has the EnergyStar sign on the front of the machine. Washing machines that are energy-efficient consume half the amount of water that conventional washers use. Make the most of each load to the greatest extent possible. Instead of doing multiple tiny loads of laundry, try to do one large load at a time to save time. It is wasteful to run tiny loads unnecessarily since it wastes water. Distribute your loads as far as possible. Instead of doing a large amount of laundry on a single day, try doing a few of loads each day numerous times a week. It is preferable to drain any hot water on a planted area rather than too close to the septic tank or the drainfield. Use of caustic drain openers and cleansers is prohibited.

A lot of problems may be avoided by educating yourself and your family on what might damage your septic system. This will save you a significant amount of money and aggravation in the long term, while also benefiting the environment and the health of your family members.

how to maintain your septic system

Follow these helpful hints to ensure that your septic system has the longest possible life.

• Make use of the services of a qualified specialist to develop a maintenance strategy. Make an appointment for an annual examination of your septic system. Utilize the services of an effluent filter to limit the amount of particles that exit the tank, so extending the life of your septic system. Make sure you get your septic system professionally cleaned every 2 to 3 years, or more frequently if necessary, by an experienced and qualified expert
• If you have any reason to believe that there is an issue with your system, contact a professional. It is far preferable to catch anything early than than pay the price later.

common septic questions

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions by septic system owners.

What is bad for septic systems?

No plastic items such as paper towels, sanitary and baby wipes, condoms, disposable diapers, or anything else should be flushed down the toilet or dumped into your septic system. Wipes should be avoided at all costs since none of them are septic-safe.

How do I keep my septic system healthy?

As yeast and bacteria aggressively break down waste particles, flush around 12 cup of instant dry baking yeast down the toilet, and then add 14 cup of instant yeast every four months until the waste solids are completely broken down.

Can I use bleach if I have a septic tank?

When bleach is diluted with laundry water, it should have no effect on the microorganisms in your septic system. Pouring powerful bleach or other harsh chemicals down the drain, on the other hand, is not recommended.

who should you call for septic issues?

Septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping services are provided by Norway Septic Inc., a service-oriented company devoted to delivering outstanding septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping services to households and business owners throughout the Michiana area. “We take great delight in finishing the task that others have left unfinished.” “They pump, we clean!” says our company’s motto. If you believe that your septic system is having troubles, or if you require septic replacement components such as septic filters, please contact us right once.

Our affiliate connections to these items generate a small profit for us if you decide to purchase them via our links.