What Not to Put Down a Septic System

What Not to Put Down a Septic System — septic system guidance for Ontario homeowners on Septic Ontario. Compare septic contractors, reviews, and free…

By Septic Ontario. Published .

What Not to Put Down a Septic System

Your tank and bed depend on healthy bacteria and clear pipes. What goes down the drain ends up in your yard.

Never flush

  • “Flushable” wipes, paper towels, feminine products
  • Fats, oils, and grease (FOG)
  • Medications, paint, solvents, pesticides
  • Coffee grounds and food scraps (limit garbage disposal use)

    • Use sparingly

  • Antibacterial cleaners and bleach (normal cleaning is fine; do not dump bottles)
  • Water softener backwash (ask your installer about routing)
  • Harsh drain openers—can kill bacteria and damage pipes

    • Best practices

  • Spread laundry across the week
  • Use septic-safe toilet paper
  • Pump on schedule and fix leaks promptly

    • More terms are defined in our glossary.

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