Safe Toilet Paper for Septic Tanks

It is unlikely that most people think about the choice of toilet roll for a long time. However, this is an important issue for those with a septic tank.

Using the wrong option will provoke clogging. Cleaning and repairing the system is messy, difficult, and expensive. Still, if you choose the right toilet paper, the septic tank will last many years.

How to Choose Best Product for Septic System

If you want to secure yourself against blockages, consider installing a comfort height toilet. Such models have an intensive flush and are suitable not only for the home but also for commercial premises, where the possibility of breakdowns is higher.

But when selecting the safest option, you should pay attention to specific properties of toilet paper. Read below which paper will save you from repairs and which one is not worth buying.

  • Dissolving. This property is the main criterion when choosing toilet paper. In fact, all types dissolve. However, options with a denser canvas require more time for this, and by the time they are completely dissolved, a blockage will form. Dense sheet waste requires more water to dissolve. Biodegradable and recycled paper degrade the fastest. The manufacturing method assumes short fibers in the finished product. That’s why this is a safer option for septic tanks.
  • Buying biodegradable toilet paper. To check if it is true, place a few sheets in a bowl or glass and cover them with water. Notice how quickly the material dissolves. The best options will degrade within a few minutes.
  • Density. Nobody likes to use sheets that are too rough. But thin and easily-torn paper is also not suitable for its main task. Super-dense sheets are unsuitable for septic tanks because they stick together and block the sewer after flushing. No need to choose “transparent” paper, because you will spend more. The best choice is dense enough for its primary task and not too thick to clog the system.
  • Color and fragrance. A safe option for a septic tank should not contain a lot of chemicals. They disturb the balance of the system and, as a result, slow down the decomposition. Chlorine is especially dangerous for septic tanks. Choose toilet paper that has not been bleached with this agent. It is best to avoid fragrances.
  • Flushable wipes, 3-ply paper, and ultra-plush toilet paper are unsuitable for septic tanks. These products quickly clog the sewer. Wet wipes absolutely cannot be washed down the drain.

Which toilet paper is safe for septic tanks? Let’s sum it up. Not too dense, soft, 1-ply, biodegradable paper without fragrance and chlorine will be your best choice.

If you have a septic tank, preventing clogging is much easier than cleaning the system. A thoughtful choice of toilet paper guarantees you decades of good sewerage performance.

Recycled Toilet Paper Advantages


Because the fibres separate so quickly, recycled toilet paper is a great choice. This enables the recycled paper to decompose and prevents sludge buildup.

In addition, recycled paper is bleach-free. The healthy, natural microorganisms in your septic tank might be disrupted by bleach. This may result in sludge accumulation and more frequent septic tank pumping for you.

Using Biodegradable Toilet Paper Has Advantages


For your septic tank, biodegradable toilet paper is a fantastic choice. Biodegradable toilet paper dissolves more quickly in your septic tank because it needs less water to do so. Rapid dissolution creates smaller particles that won’t collect and cause damage to your system.

The lack of thickness and softness compared to conventional toilet paper is a drawback of biodegradable toilet paper. Additionally, it is crucial to be aware that biodegradable toilet paper might be pricey.

Non-Tree Toilet Paper Benefits


There are now more environmentally friendly septic-safe toilet paper products on the market. Keep an eye out for toilet paper that isn’t made from trees if you’re seeking for a more environmentally friendly solution. Although not necessary for a septic system, this can be convenient to have as certain bath tissue can dissolve quickly.

Traditional toilet paper substitutes are increasingly popular, including bamboo and sugar cane. Tree growth might take decades. Bamboo can, however, grow again in three to four months. Because it is a species of grass, bamboo makes excellent septic-safe toilet paper. This indicates that it will naturally and soon disappear. A win-win situation is one in which you protect the environment and your septic system.

Will toilet paper that doesn’t dissolve as soon as it hits the water clog my toilet or the drains?
No. Actually, bath tissue that doesn’t disintegrate immediately away stays up while being used and safeguards your hands. When flushed, toilet paper begins to degrade in the drain pipes while still being strong enough to protect your hands.

What Causes Issues with Septic Tanks?

Depending on the size and usage of the household, septic tanks require routine maintenance such as pumping out every two to four years. Other frequent issues include water usage that is too high, which prevents sediments from settling in the tank, or drainage lines that are clogged by plant roots.

Why Do Drains and Toilets Occasionally Become Clogged?

Toilets and drain lines can become clogged for a number of reasons, including children mistakenly dumping a toy down the toilet or tree roots growing in the drain pipes. When a drain line cracks (for example, due to a house shifting or heavy machinery running over it), tree roots looking for water may move toward the fracture and eventually obstruct the passage of materials via the drain line.

Home Base Project Team
Home Base Project Team
At The Home Base Project, we offer practical, real-life tips and inspiration about DIY, decorating and gardening. The Home Base Project provide the best information about home renovation and design, connecting home design enthusiasts and home professionals across the world.