To Flush, Or Not To Flush: The Do’s And Don’ts For Your Septic System

You may be wondering what is okay to flush down into your septic system. The items that are safe to flush are greatly outweighed by those that are not. Here’s a quick list to reference the next time you are unsure.

Always flush:

Toilet paper
Human waste and wastewater

Never flush:

Wipes of any kind (even if they say flushable)
Q-tips
Paper Towels
Tissues
Dental Floss
Feminine products
Condoms
Tobacco products
Needles
Candy or gum wrappers
Any sort of trash

Other items that should not go down the drain:

Cooking oil
Bath oil
Grease
Garbage disposal use
Excessive bleach
Harsh chemicals
Antifreeze
Paint

Following the above guidelines will not only prevent septic system issues, it will also prevent plumbing blockages. Half of the calls we receive for backup in the home are not due to the septic system, but due to clogs in the pipes. So, watch out for both! Use common sense and don’t flush things down the toilet that are not part of the toilets intended use.

If you’ve been allowing items into your septic system that shouldn’t be there, call us today for a free estimate to pump and clean your septic tank. Its better late than never!

For 86+ years, Van Delden Wastewater Systems has withstood the test of time as the leading Wastewater System company, providing San Antonio, Boerne, and the surrounding Texas Hill Country with services you can count on now and in the future.

Call us for any of your wastewater systems needs and let our professionals help you with your septic installation and maintenance requirements: (210) 698-2000 (San Antonio) or (830) 249-4000 (Boerne).