Simply pour ½ a cup of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar. Leave the mixture to foam for a number of minutes, and then pour a gallon of boiling water down to flush the drain. It is also possible to clean toilets with homemade cleaning products instead of stronger chemical cleaners.
Is Clorox toilet bowl cleaner safe for septic tanks?
Yes. When used as directed, Clorox® Toilet Bowl Cleaner – with Bleach is safe to use in septic systems. The bleach breaks down rapidly to mostly salt and water. Do not use or mix with other household chemicals such as other toilet bowl cleaners, rust removers, acids or products containing ammonia.
What can 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 I use vinegar to clean septic toilet?
Everyday cleaning recipe for septic toilets Fill an empty spray bottle with normal white household vinegar and spray around the inside of the toilet bowl. Flush the toilet and you’re done!
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.
Is Dawn dish soap septic safe?
Yes, Dawn Platinum is septic safe!
Is baking soda and vinegar safe for septic systems?
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.
Can you use Lysol toilet bowl cleaner with a septic tank?
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.
What dish soap is septic safe?
Safest Dishwashing Detergents Dropps Dishwasher Pods. ECOS Dishmate Dish Soap. Method Dish and Dishwasher Soaps. Seventh Generation Dish Liquid.
What’s the best toilet bowl cleaner?
The Best Toilet Bowl Cleaners of 2022
- Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner—Clinging Bleach Gel.
- Lysol Clean & Fresh Toilet Bowl Cleaner.
- Lysol Power Toilet Bowl Cleaner.
- Better Life Natural Toilet Bowl Cleaner.
- Method Antibac Toilet.
- Mrs.
- Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner with Bleach (2 pk)
- Scrubbing Bubbles Bubbly Bleach Gel.
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.
How do you clean a badly stained toilet?
How to clean a very stained toilet bowl
- Pour 1 or 2 cups of white distilled vinegar into the toilet bowl.
- Sprinkle some baking soda. You will get a sizzling reaction.
- Wait about 15 minutes.
- Scrub the stains with your brush or pumice stone.
- Turn the water back on and flush.
Can you use hydrogen peroxide in a septic system?
There are many natural options for say, disinfectants, that exist which will not harm a septic system. For some of the stronger natural disinfectants such as Hydrogen Peroxide and Thyme Oil, their strength will still require them to be diluted with water before being introduced to the system. 6
Is Epsom salt good for septic systems?
While Epsom salt doesn’t cause damage to your septic tank, this doesn’t necessarily mean you should go flushing it into your tank. Many individuals think flushing Epsom salt in their septic tanks will break down waste. While salts can unclog a toilet, the effect Epsom salt has on your septic system will be minimal.
Is Pinesol septic safe?
A: Yes! Following the recommended use of any Pine-Sol® product will not harm your septic system.
What will bleach do to a septic tank?
Flushing bleach down your drains will kill all of the bacteria in your septic tank —even the good ones. They may have a corrosive effect on parts of your septic system, however. Additionally, they might also damage the natural balance of bacteria and other substances that live in your septic system.
Toilet Cleaners That Are Safe for Septic Systems
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In This Article
- Featured Image courtesy of daoleduc/iStock/Getty Images
If you have an aseptic system, you are aware that you must be cautious about what you flush; but, what should you do when it comes time to clean the toilet is not as obvious. When it comes to septic systems, plain water is ineffective as a toilet cleaning. It is not disinfectant, and it is not effective in removing unsightly mineral stains. The truth is that there is no dearth of septic-safe toilet cleaners on the market, and it is simple to obtain evaluations online to assist you in making your selection.
Toilet bowl cleansers from Green Works and Seventh Generation are two of the best options.
The key is to stay away from chemicals that might disturb the delicate equilibrium in your septic tank’s bacteria.
Why You Need to Be Careful
Unlike your own digestive system, a septic tank is a sensitive ecology that has to be treated with care. When you flush the tank, the microorganisms that live inside break down — or biodegrade — the sediments that you bring into the tank. Once the sediments have been broken down, they may flow out to the drain field and be absorbed into the earth, which is critical for the system’s overall health. Assume you were to consume bleach, acid, or a hydrocarbon such as paint thinner. What would happen to you would surprise you.
Microorganisms perish, digestion is halted, and sediments that would normally biodegrade fall to the bottom of the tank, reducing the amount of space available for water to accumulate.
What Not to Use (and What to Use)
Three substances included in typical toilet bowl cleansers are particularly harmful to septic systems: bleach, hydrochloric acid, and chlorine. Bleach is the most harmful of the three. In addition to killing pathogens in the toilet, bleach and chlorine also destroy microorganisms in the septic tank, which is why they are used in septic tanks. It is common practice to use hydrochloric acid in toilet bowl cleaners in order to cut through rust and mineral stains; however, doing so increases the pH of the septic tank water, which kills beneficial bacteria.
Baking soda, vinegar, and borax are all considered to be safe substances.
Products containing methylisothiazolinone, a hazardous chemical that is commonly used as a preservative in the cosmetics sector, should be avoided.
A DIY Septic-Safe Toilet Bowl Cleaner
If you are not a chemist and you do not want to rely on the word of a manufacturer when it comes to your health, you might want to consider making your own toilet bowl cleanser. There is a straightforward recipe that may be made with common home components. In a mixing dish, combine the following ingredients; transfer the mixture to a spray bottle:
- 3/4 cup baking soda
- 1 cup white vinegar
- 20 drops essential oil, such as tea tree oil or peppermint oil
Spray the inside of the bowl with the mixture and set it aside for a couple of hours to dry. As a result, the baking soda has more time to disinfect and the vinegar has more time to remove stains. Using a toilet brush, scrape the inside of the bowl just before flushing. As a result of doing so on a regular basis, your toilet will be clean and fresh-smelling, and your septic tank will be content.
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.
- The solids in your septic tank will also begin to harden as a result of the bacteria dying.
- If this occurs and the tank is not pumped out, the contents of the tank can gradually transform into hard dirt.
- Please visit ourSeptic Tank Cleaning page to learn more about what an aseptic tank is and how it works.
- Most of the time, the most effective cleansers are basic, all-natural ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen or laundry.
- When you clean your toilets on a regular basis or as part of your regular cleaning program, this recipe is ideal.
- 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 owners: keeping toilet bowl clean?
Robo, I believe that bleach is your only option at this moment. This is what I found out: “If you are using bleach in your house, you should think about getting bacterial additions for the septic tank as well. It is usually offered in a pouch, and when flushed down the toilet, it releases bacteria into the septic tank, where they help to replace any bacteria that have been destroyed by the chlorine. Additionally, in addition to destroying beneficial bacteria, bleach is extremely corrosive and can cause significant damage to pipes, septic lines, and the septic tank itself.” Our system was first installed in 1980.
- Because it’s only you and your DH (right?
- Try using the Clorox foamer with an empty bowl, as suggested by pippiep.
- I’m not sure what else to do if it doesn’t provide results.
- I was really unhappy because my lovely white kitchen sink, which was just a few months old, had begun to fade on one side.
- The clorox drops are responsible for keeping germs out of the bowl.
- However, for the bowl, I’d recommend starting with the foamer.
5 Best Toilet Cleaners for Septic Tanks (2022 Reviews)
Do you have concerns about your toilet cleaner causing damage to your septic tank? When we were looking for an appropriate product, we ran into the same problem. But don’t be concerned any more. Septic tanks and toilet cleaners are unsanitary places to work. As a result, we’ve done the legwork for you in terms of determining which product to purchase. In addition, we’ve gathered some valuable industry information to assist you in your search for the finest toilet cleaners for septic tanks. By using a safe product and following the recommended cleaning procedures, you will be able to maintain a clean toilet bowl and seat while maintaining your septic tank in good working order.
Product Comparison TableFeaturesImageModelProduct Comparison TableFeatures Cleaning the toilet bowl with Clorox is the most effective stain remover.
- Most microorganisms are eliminated
- Stubborn stains are removed
- Gentle formula is used
Kaboom Continuous Clean is the best hands-free cleaner available.
- Installation and use are simple
- The product is effective
- And it offers excellent value for money.
Lysol CleanFresh is the best product for deep cleaning.
- Deep cleansing
- Pleasant aroma
- Effective germ elimination
- For use on a regular basis
The Most Effective Natural Cleaning Formula Green Works Cleaner is an environmentally friendly cleaning product.
- Safe for septic tanks
- Made with natural components
- And is environmentally friendly
The Most Effective Thick Formula Natural Ways to a Better Life
How to Choose a Septic Tank Cleaner
It’s critical that you don’t just pick up any old product off the shelf and use it. With catchy marketing and catchy language, toilet cleansers are meant to get you into buying their product. Instead, while selecting a product, keep the following considerations in mind:
The Best Toilet Cleaner for Septic Tanks of 2022
To identify the finest toilet cleaner on the market, we’ve scoured the internet for several hours and tested a slew of different options. After considering the elements listed above, as well as analyzing customer feedback and consulting industry experts, we’ve come up with the following list. The following are the most effective toilet cleaners for septic tanks:
1. Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner with Bleach
If you just have a limited amount of energy to devote to toilet cleaning, a less-than-effective cleaner will not suffice. Then this could be the toilet cleaner you’ve been looking for, because it has a recipe that’s great for thorough cleaning your toilet bowl. This toilet cleaner will leave your toilet looking sparkling and new, as it will remove all of the difficult stains and bowl rings from your toilet. Because it contains bleach, it also effectively kills the majority of odor-causing germs.
It is claimed that this Clorox solution is non-abrasive and may be used in septic systems without causing damage to the system.
It includes a number of hazardous substances.
Always wear gloves and take care not to get any liquid in your eyes or on your clothing.
Pros
Size | 24 ounces |
Bleach | Yes |
Scents | Cool Wave, Fresh |
Safe for septic tanks? | Yes |
2. Kaboom Scrub Free! Toilet Bowl Cleaner
The Kaboom Toilet Cleaner will be a godsend if you’re a busy parent who has limited time to clean and despises the nasty odor and filth that accumulates in the toilet. You will be amazed at how effectively and efficiently it cleans and deodorizes your toilet bowl on a constant basis. It takes less than a minute to set up and will provide you with several months of hands-free cleaning. It cleans not only the toilet bowl but also the area beneath the rim and the water as a whole because this cleaner must be connected directly to your overflow pipe, which means it cleans everything correctly.
It effectively eliminates difficult stains and deposits while leaving a pleasant aroma behind.
Pros
- Installation and use are simple
- The product is effective
- And it offers excellent value for money.
Cons
Size | 6.4 ounces |
Bleach | Yes |
Scents | Slight scent of bleach |
Safe for septic tanks? | Yes |
3. Lysol CleanFresh Toilet Bowl Clean
On the market, this Lysol toilet bowl cleaning is one of the most widely used and well-liked products. Those who wish to thoroughly clean their toilets may find this to be the ideal cleaning solution. It is quite simple to eliminate toilet rings, hard-water stains, and rust with the use of this solution. In the most serious circumstances, you’ll only need to use the toilet scrub to quickly and effectively get rid of them. The bottle is ideal for cleaning hard-to-reach locations since it makes it simple to scrub beneath the rim.
This solution is also rather thick, and it clings to the toilet while cleaning it at the same time.
Also, you may use it to clean other hard surfaces, such as your electronic equipment, if you have any. Finally, you have the choice of selecting one of three distinct scents. Chacune of them leaves an incredible fresh and clean scent in its wake:
Pros
- Perfect for deep cleaning
- Effectively removes stubborn stains
- Effectively kills germs.
Cons
Size | 24 ounces |
Bleach | Yes |
Scents | Lemon and lime, crisp linen, early morning breeze |
Safe for septic tanks? | Yes |
4. Green Works Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Using a strong cleaning solution, this toilet bowl cleanser leaves the bowl smelling clean and fresh. This product effectively dissolves even the most difficult stains, such as rust, hard water stains, and mineral deposits. For those who care about the environment, this solution combines organically derived and plant-based substances to effectively clean any filth that may be present in the toilet bowl. Plastic from recycled or post-consumer sources is used in the packaging. Its contents are likewise cruelty-free, as they have not been subjected to animal testing.
Moreover, it does not produce any harmful chemical vapors or residue when you are cleaning it.
If you’re having trouble getting rid of the tougher hard water stains, you can use a brush to clean the obstinate places.
Pros
- Safe for septic tanks
- Made with natural components
- And is environmentally friendly
Cons
Size | 24 ounces |
Bleach | No |
Scents | Original Fresh |
Safe for septic tanks? | Yes |
5. Better Life Natural Toilet Bowl Cleaner
You might want to consider using this cleaner if you want something that is more environmentally friendly. It makes toilet cleaning a less-than-disgusting effort by removing even the toughest stains with relative ease. Grease, rust, and calcium deposits are sliced away by the thick gel that binds to the toilet walls. It also eliminates rings and dirt accumulation, which makes your domestic activities a lot less difficult to complete. This Better Life cleaner is comprised entirely of plant-based ingredients.
It’s also non-toxic to septic systems and rivers, making it an environmentally beneficial product to use.
Pros
- Product that is environmentally friendly
- Septic systems and rivers are not jeopardized. Cleaner that is effective
Cons
Size | 24 ounces |
Bleach | No |
Scents | Tea tree and peppermint |
Safe for septic tanks? | Yes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Not all products available on the market are guaranteed to be safe. If your home is equipped with a septic system, stay away from products that contain harsh chemicals. A toilet cleaner made from biodegradable and naturally occurring ingredients can assist you in removing stains and odors while also maintaining the health of your septic tank. You should always verify the contents, and as you can see from our list, plant-based and natural substances are the greatest options available. If you do decide to use cleansers that include bleach or other chemicals, it is critical that you do so sparingly and cautiously.
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
- Methylisothiazolinone is a synthetic compound with antibacterial characteristics that is found in a variety of consumer items. It is most often found in cleaning products, where it serves as a synthetic preservative. Apart from the fact that it is a frequent allergy, various investigations have revealed that it is also poisonous 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.
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.
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.
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.
What cleaning products can I use with a septic tank?
Numerous beliefs, opinions, and fallacies exist around the kind of cleaning solutions that may and cannot be used in homes that have septic tanks. We at Drainage Superstore have put together some information about septic tanks and cleaning goods in order to assist clear up some of the ambiguity in the marketplace.
Why cleaning products can affect your septic tank
When selecting cleaning chemicals, it is critical to consider the potential impact they may have on your septic tank’s performance. A buildup of chemicals in your septic tank can cause the chemical balance to become unbalanced, which can have serious repercussions. However, while a lot of home chemicals are safe to use, there are some that can cause harm to your septic tank and even kill the bacteria that breaks down sediments in your septic tank. If the bacteria in your septic tank is destroyed, it may lead to a variety of difficulties, including obstruction of the tank, groundwater contamination, and other issues.
This has the potential to have major consequences for animals and the surrounding ecosystems.
What cleaning products can I use with a septic tank?
In general, multipurpose household cleansers are safe to use in homes with septic tanks, although caution should be exercised in their application. Maintain a moderate, preferably phosphate-free, multipurpose surface cleanser and laundry detergent, since these products will not contain the strong chemicals that might harm microorganisms in your septic tank when used improperly. Important to remember is that abuse of any chemical can result in negative consequences, therefore always use chemicals in moderation when possible.
- The use of any bleach that is too powerful, or that is more concentrated than a standard home bleach, should be avoided.
- Products containing ammonia should be safe to use with a septic tank in the same way that bleach is, as long as they are used very seldom and in moderation.
- We do not advocate, however, the use of foamy drain cleansers or solid drain cleaners in this situation.
- Cleaning products that have water as the primary ingredient are typically safe to use with septic tanks since water dilutes any chemicals that may be harmful to microorganisms.
- When it comes to home detergents, we always recommend looking for goods that have a label that clearly states that they are safe to use with septic tanks.
Homemade cleaning products to use with a septic tank
If you’re hesitant about using cleaning products with your septic tank or want to decrease the amount of chemicals used in your home, there are a variety of cleaning products that you can manufacture yourself using common household materials that will work just as well. If you don’t want to use a chemical drain cleaner on a daily basis, you may quickly and easily produce your own drain cleaner that won’t harm your septic tank. Pour 12 cups of baking soda down the drain, followed by a cup of white vinegar, and the problem should be solved.
- As an alternative to using harsher chemical cleaners, it is also feasible to clean toilets with homemade cleaning agents.
- There are a variety of home chemicals that may be used to clean bathtubs and tiles, including bleach and dish soap.
- They will be more than delighted to assist you.
- That’s the only way we’ll be able to make progress.
Use These Septic Safe Household Cleaning Products
When it comes to household septic systems, most people don’t give them a second thought unless there is a problem. Moreover, when there is an issue, it is almost always an expensive and complicated one. More than a quarter of all residences in the United States rely on a septic system to dispose of waste from their domestic plumbing. Certain measures should be taken to keep the system in good working order, such as regular planned pumping every three to five years to prevent sludge accumulation and the installation of low-flow water faucets and laundry appliances to limit wastewater input to the system, among other measures.
Can you tell me if they’re safe for the septic system?
Household Cleaning Product Ingredients
The majority of people desire to use the most efficient cleaning products possible to keep their houses clean and germ-free at all times. The same substances that protect individuals from disease-causing germs are also harmful to the microorganisms that keep a septic system operating correctly. Septic systems require bacteria to function properly because they break down solid waste and kill pathogens that flow into the leach field and, eventually, into the groundwater supply.
Chemicals that are recognized as dangerous to individuals or the environment should not be allowed to enter that same groundwater supply.
Warning
In general, septic systems are not intended to filter out petroleum-based pollutants such as gasoline, lubricants, insecticides, or solvent-based goods, which are found in many household items. When used in excessive quantities, disinfectants may cause havoc on the operations of a well-functioning septic system. It is very crucial to check the labels on household items to identify whether or not they are safe for septic systems and to keep track of how much of them are being used. Adding just two gallons of chlorine bleach to the system and leaving it for a short amount of time can destroy the majority of beneficial bacteria in a 1,000-gallon septic-tank system.
You may also use distilled white vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda to produce your own cleaning and disinfecting solutions to use around the house.
Safest Toilet and Bathroom Cleaners
Bathrooms are notoriously germ-infested spaces that require frequent cleaning using septic-safe products on a daily basis. When it comes to cleaning the place, choose one of the following methods:
- Among the products available are CLR BathKitchen Foaming Action Cleaner
- CLR Calcium, Lime, and Rust Remover
- Green Works 99 percent naturally-derived toilet bowl cleaner
- And a variety of others. Method Bathroom and Toilet Bowl Cleaners
- Proline EFP Toilet Bowl
- Method Bathroom and Toilet Bowl Cleaners
If you have a plumbing blockage in a sink or toilet, avoid using crystal drain cleaners since they are too toxic for septic systems to use. To unblock drains, go for non-chemical solutions such as plungers or a commercial liquid drain cleaner.
Safest Dishwashing Detergents
Whether you are hand-washing or using a dishwasher, the following are safe options to consider:
- Aldi Foaming Dish Soap
- Amway Home Dish Drops Automatic Dishwashing Powder
- Dropps Dishwasher Pods
- ECOS Dishmate Dish Soap
- Method Dish and Dishwasher Soaps
- Seventh Generation Dish Liquid
- Seventh Generation Automatic Dishwashing Gel: FreeClear
- Seventh Generation Automatic Dishwashing Gel: FreeC
Use vinegar and baking soda to clean your dishwasher, or a professional cleaner with natural chemicals, such as LemiShine, to clean your dishwasher.
Safest Floor Cleaners
You may use one of these cleaning products on different types of flooring in your home to keep them all looking their best:
- BISSELL Advanced Professional SpotStain + Oxy
- BISSELL Pet Stain and Odor
- ECOS PRO Neutral Floor Cleaner Concentrated 1:128
- BISSELL Advanced Professional SpotStain + Oxy
- BISSELL Advanced Professional SpotStain + Ox Floor cleaners from Holloway House include Holloway House Quick Shine Hardwood Floor Cleaner and Holloway House Quick Shine Multi-Surface Floor Cleaner, as well as Honest Floor Cleaner: Grapefruit Grove.
Safest Odor Removers
When scents begin to permeate your house, consider the following choices that are safe for your septic system:
- Products that are friendly to the environment Each of the following: Everyday Stain and Odor Remover
- ECOS Pet Kitty Litter Deodorizer
- Fresh Wave Odor Removing Spray
- Wegmans Advance Fabric Odor Remover Fresh Linen
- Well at Walgreens Odor Eliminator
Safest Kitchen, Glass, and All-Purpose Cleaners
Choose one of the following products for the majority of your cleaning needs:
- Cleaners from Amway Home include: L.O.C. Multi-Purpose Cleaner, Disney Baby ECOS StainOdor Remover, ECOS Glass + Surface Cleaner Vinegar, and ECOS Glass + Surface Cleaner. Simple Green All-Purpose Cleaner and Degreaser
- Green Works 98 percent Naturally-Derived GlassSurface Cleaner Spray
- Honest Glass Cleaner: FreeClear
- Krud Kutter Kitchen Degreaser
- Seventh Generation All-Purpose Natural Cleaner
- Green Works 98 percent Naturally-Derived All-Purpose Cleaner Spray
- Green Works 98 percent Naturally-Derived All-Purpose Cleaner and De
Household Cleaning Products to Avoid
Some household cleaning goods, such as the following, should not be flushed down the toilet, along with petroleum-based fuels and lubricants, automotive maintenance chemicals such as antifreeze, and lead-based paints: Drain cleaners made of crystals: Crystal drain cleaners include huge amounts of lye as well as sulfuric acid or hydrochloric acid, which can kill beneficial microorganisms and create corrosion in the drain system.
Due to the fact that liquid drain cleaners are diluted and flow more swiftly through the system, they are considered to be safer to use.
They should be used in small doses and in accordance with package instructions, with sufficient time between applications to enable the septic system bacteria to recuperate.
When it comes to eliminating oil and food from oven surfaces, it is far safer to use other ways.
Solvents such as degreasers, paint thinners, and nail polish removers may also disturb the equilibrium of a system and contaminate the groundwater in a leach field. Solvents such as these can be harmful to the environment. These goods should be disposed of at a local hazardous waste site.
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. The majority of them were steadily destroying your septic system while you were using them.
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.
Septic Safe Toilet Cleaner
A bath bomb is something that we have all loved for a long time, but have you ever heard of a toilet cleaning ball before? Because we live in the country and use organic cleaners, I wanted to find a toilet cleaner that was septic safe before making the move. Toilet bowl cleansers looked like something that need a little additional UMPH to get clean, and I discovered that this toilet cleaner ball recipe did the trick! This morning, we’re going to make organic toilet cleaning balls that may be used to deep clean toilet rings, disinfect them, and even serve as a decorative item in your bathroom (with a mold).
Organic Cleaning Supplies
My recent positive lifestyle choices have lead me to begin creating and purchasing organic cleansers, which I believe will be good to my family. I’ve supplemented these lifestyle changes with extensive study that has taken me deep into the world of DIY organic cleaning, which is where I discovered, you guessed it: toilet cleaning balls! Prior to making the conversion to organic cleaning, I used bleach in my bathrooms, as did many others. The safety of my family, the odor, and the discomfort of my skin were all enough to persuade me to make the transition.
In addition, stains are removed more quickly, yellow toilet rings are no longer present, and the expense of cleaning my bathroom has been reduced by half.
- Check them out at the following link: Natural Cleaners for Simple Living: 20 of the Best Organic Cleaners
You’re probably wondering how toilet cleaning balls got into your bathroom cleaning regimen in the first place. The answer is that they will be there anytime you require them to be! It is possible to keep your toilet cleaning balls in your bathroom and use them anytime you need to remove filth. There is no need to breathe in any pollutants during the cleaning process because they clean rapidly (or overnight).
Septic Safe Toilet Cleaner
After perusing several blogs and websites, I discovered a few recipes that I would want to try. My research revealed that the fundamental elements of an organic septic safe toilet cleaner are all the same! As a result, I tried with a variety of possibilities until I discovered one that was satisfactory to me.
Is Borax Safe for Septic Tanks
It is the borax that serves as the primary cleaning agent in this toilet cleaner ball. When I first started using organic cleaning products, I was concerned about whether they would be safe for our septic tanks. What I discovered was that borax is completely harmless for septic tanks. As a matter of fact, it is less harmful to the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank than conventional store-bought cleansers are.
Natural materials such as baking soda, cornstarch, and vinegar make up the remainder of the components in this septic-safe toilet bowl cleaning, which you could even consume yourself. Adding non-essential oils can aid with smells, disinfection, and cleaning power, among other things!
Toilet Cleaner Ball Recipe
- Baking soda, 1/2 cup borax (some people use citric acid instead of borax, and that works too! ), 1/2 cup cornstarch, 12 drops eucalyptus essential oil, 12 drops orange essential oil, 12 drops thieves essential oil, 12 drops lemon essential oil In a spray bottle (or distilled water), combine 1/2 cup cleaning vinegar with myDIY all-purpose cleaner.
How to Make Septic Safe Toilet Cleaner Balls
- All of the ingredients, with the exception of the vinegar, should be placed in a glass bowl. Apply all-purpose cleanser (or water) to the mixture and continue to stir until the mixture resembles moist sand and holds together when squeezed with your palms.
- Precautions should be taken to avoid over-spritzing the mixture, which might cause it to bubble and crumble.
4 molds, or 4 equal-sized spherical balls formed by hand, should be used to hold the mixture. For molds, let the mixture sit overnight before removing it from the mold the next day, if possible. Keep in a tightly sealed glass container until ready to use. Molds aren’t something I play with very often myself. Are molds aesthetically pleasing? Yes. Is there a difference between the shapes in terms of cleaning power? Nope. Because they are less time consuming to prepare and dry, my toilet cleaner balls are not worthy of being featured on Pinterest.
How to Use
Molds aren’t something I play with very much. Do molds have a pleasing appearance? No. Yes. Are there any differences in cleaning effectiveness depending on the shape? Nope. Because they aren’t Pinterest-worthy, my toilet cleaner balls take less time to prepare and dry than the ones on the market. Moreover, they function in the same manner!
Septic Safe Toilet Bowl Cleaner in Action
Consider some of my most difficult toilet stains to remove. Please accept my apologies for the graphic nature of this restroom. As you can see, it is located in our guest home, which is rarely utilized. As a result, the toilet is only flushed on rare occasions. We have hard water with a high concentration of iron in it. The result of not flushing the toilet frequently enough when it is loaded with iron-laden water is this. Check out the miracle that this septic-safe toilet cleaner does! In an attempt to get rid of the hard water and rust rings, I’ve tried about every chemical available at the time.
With just ONE application of this DIY toilet ball mixture, nearly all of the stains are removed!
Materials
- Ingredients: half-cup baking soda, half-cup borax, half-cup ground cornstarch, 12 drops eucalyptus essential oil, 12 drops orange essential oil, 12 drops thieves essential oil, 12 drops lemon essential oil My homemade all-purpose cleaner in a spray bottle (or distilled water)
- 1/2 cup cleaning vinegar
- 1/2 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup baking powder
Tools
A beautiful ornamental display in a glass jar is created by using the mold; nevertheless, the mold is simply decorative in nature. I spent $300 to completely refurbish this bathroom (with new countertops, faucets, and mirrors), as you can see in the photos. The rest of the bathrooms in our main house aren’t quite as obnoxious as the toilet in the guest house bathroom. With the help of this organic toilet cleaning, they will glitter and shine! You can find out all you need to know about our guest bathroom makeover by clicking on the links above.
Guest Bathroom Remodel Details
- Cost of a Tile Shower Remodel
- How to Mix Metals in a Guest Bathroom
- List of Guest Bathroom Essentials
- Organic Modern Bathroom Design Plans
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