Choosing the right laundry detergent to protect your septic system

Believe it or not, whatever you pour into your septic system may and will have an impact on the bacteria and composition of your septic tank. Of course, the more chemicals your pour down the drains of your septic systems the shorter its life will be. Nevertheless, there are products that can help you maintain your septic system running smooth whilst still keeping your house clean and tidy.

Almost 25% of United States households use a septic system as their main water and sewage disposal. And it is well-known that the way people with septic systems do laundry affects their septic systems greatly. But even if you don’t like to give much thought to your septic system, it’s necessary to prevent issues if you want to avoid a septic nightmare you won’t be able to shake off of your head, not to mention how much it will cost you.

The tips to keep your septic system healthy whilst doing your laundry are pretty simple, just make sure to keep your laundry loads to a maximum of 2 per day. If you don’t already have a high efficiency washing machine, consider to replace the one that you have with one of those.

If you use a normal amount of detergents and bleaches you won’t mess up the bacterial action inside your septic tank but keep in mind that excess is never good and soap scum can plug the soil pores in the drain field causing your septic system to fail. Further, some laundry detergents contain nonylphenol ethoxylate surfactants, which can severely contaminate ground water and surface water in your septic system. Installing a washer’s drainage line is also advised to avoid blockages. Getting a lint filter is advised too, and a dry well to capture laundry greywater, which should be cleaned regularly.

However, selecting the right detergent is key when it comes to keeping your septic system clean. The following is a list laundry detergents that are safe to use if you have a septic system.
  • Amway S-A-8
  • Country Save Laundry Products
  • Fresh Start
  • Biokleen Laundry Powder
  • Ecover Laundry Products
  • Arm & Hammer Laundry Detergent
  • Charlie’s Soap Laundry Detergent
  • Earth Friendly Laundry Products
  • Bronner’s Sal Suds
  • Equator
  • Seventh Generation Laundry Products
  • Ultra Citra-Suds Natural Laundry Detergent
  • Planet Laundry Products
  • Meyers Laundry Detergent
  • Mountain Green Ultra Laundry Liquid

 

Bear in mind that septic tank safe laundry products are usually more expensive than regular detergents. However, you can always turn to DIY options that are cheaper and safer for your septic system.

If you want to learn more about Poughkeepsie NY Septic Tank Inspection or septic systems related emergencies calling Jones Septic at 845 452 1123 or 800 696 6878. We’re ready to solve any of your septic emergencies.

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