What Not to Put Down Your Septic Tank: Avoid Costly Repairs and Backups

If you’re like many homeowners across Durham Region, Kawartha Lakes, and the GTA, your septic system is quietly working day and night to manage your household wastewater. But keeping your septic tank in good shape requires more than just regular cleanings—it also depends on what you put down the drain.

Tips for Septic System Care in Port Perry, Lindsay, Peterborough, Bobcaygeon, Cobourg & Nearby Communities

At Septic Jetting and More, we’ve seen firsthand how certain items can damage or clog septic systems, leading to backups, expensive repairs, or even full septic tank replacements. Here’s a list of common household items and materials you should never put down your septic system—and what to do instead.

Cooking Oils & Grease

🚫 1. Grease, Fats & Cooking Oils

Why it’s a problem: Grease and oil solidify in pipes and tanks, leading to clogs and reduced system efficiency. Over time, this buildup can restrict flow in the drain lines and weeping bed.

What to do instead: Collect cooking grease in a container and dispose of it in the garbage.

🚫 2. Flushable Wipes & Paper Towels

Why it’s a problem: Despite being labeled “flushable,” wipes don’t break down in septic tanks. They can quickly accumulate and block your system.

What to do instead: Only flush toilet paper. Dispose of all wipes, paper towels, and feminine hygiene products in a trash bin.

🚫 3. Harsh Cleaning Chemicals & Bleach

Why it’s a problem: Strong chemicals can kill the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank that help break down waste. This can cause sludge to build up faster.

What to do instead: Use septic-safe cleaners or natural alternatives like baking soda and vinegar.

Harsh Cleaning Products

🚫 4. Medications & Pharmaceuticals

Why it’s a problem: Medications can disrupt bacterial balance in your septic system and leach into the soil, potentially contaminating local water supplies.

What to do instead: Return unused medications to a local pharmacy or take-back program.

🚫 5. Coffee Grounds & Food Waste

Why it’s a problem: Organic material like coffee grounds, eggshells, and large food scraps don’t break down easily in your tank, leading to blockages.

What to do instead: Use a compost bin or throw food waste in the garbage.

Toxic Solvent Chemicals

🚫 6. Paint, Solvents, and Automotive Fluids

Why it’s a problem: These toxic materials can pollute your septic tank, kill essential bacteria, and contaminate your drain field or weeping bed.

What to do instead: Take leftover paint and solvents to a hazardous waste collection site in your area.

Protect Your Septic System for Years of Trouble-Free Service

By being mindful of what you put down your drains, you’ll extend the life of your septic tank, prevent clogs and backups, and save thousands in repairs or replacements. Whether you’re in Port Perry, Lindsay, Peterborough, Bobcaygeon, Cobourg, or anywhere across Durham, Kawartha Lakes, or the GTA, smart septic habits make a big difference.

Need Help with Septic Maintenance or Cleaning?

At Septic Jetting and More, we provide septic tank cleaning, jetting, weeping bed services, and full septic system replacements. Our expert team is ready to help homeowners across Southern Ontario keep their systems running smoothly.

📞 Call or text: (289) 886-3509📧 Email: Septicjettingandmore@gmail.com

Serving Blackstock, Port Perry, Lindsay, Peterborough, Bobcaygeon, Cobourg, and everywhere in between.

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