This is not an exhaustive list of what not to flush or wash down the drain, but some common things that we've found in septic tanks over the years. These items do not break down in your tank. They remain there until pumped out. A build-up of these items can contribute to blockage of the inlet pipe and baffle, and eventually back-up.
Items not to flush or wash down the drain:
- Baby wipes and sanitary wipes
- Sanitary napkins and tampons
- Cotton swabs
- Condoms
- Bandages
- Cigarette butts
- Grease, bacon fat, waste oils
- Food scraps (garburator waste should be composted)
- Wrappers, candy/gum papers, etc
