It's common to weigh personal preferences before purchasing toilet paper. We want something soft, reliable, and affordable, but there's also something else to think about: where does it end up when we flush?
Not all toilet paper brands are the same, and neither is our plumbing. It's important to consider certain qualities to find the best toilet paper for your system.
Let's take a look at the best option for a septic system that will still satisfy your expectations for softness and help you meet your sustainability goals.
Sewer or Septic System?
So what's the difference between the two? A sewer system is a centralized system that collects wastewater and sewage from homes, businesses, and other buildings through a network of underground pipes. The sewage is transported to a treatment plant where it is treated and cleaned before being discharged into a nearby water body or reused for various purposes.
A septic system is a decentralized sewage treatment system that is usually installed in rural areas or places where there is no access to a centralized sewer system. The system consists of a septic tank and a drain field, and it functions by allowing the wastewater to settle in the tank, where it is broken down by bacteria. The treated water is then discharged into the drain field, which is filtered through the soil before being reabsorbed into the groundwater.
Special Considerations for Septic Tanks
Generally, sewer systems are designed to handle a larger volume of wastewater and can better tolerate fluctuations in the composition of the wastewater.
Septic systems are more sensitive than sewer systems because they rely on a delicate balance of bacteria and other microorganisms to break down and treat household wastewater. If harsh chemicals or the wrong materials are introduced into the system, it can disrupt this balance and lead to system failure.
Another common issue is a clogged or blocked drain field, which can cause sewage to back up into the house or yard. If the wrong materials are flushed down the toilet or poured down the drain, they can cause clogs and damage the septic system, leading to costly repairs.
Problems with your septic system could also mean environmental harm. A septic system that is not maintained or used properly could impact local drinking and surface water. (1)
Could your toilet paper be one of these "wrong" materials? Yes, it's possible, and unfortunately, finding out too late means a mess and monetary cost.
The good news? Preventing clogs caused by toilet paper is possible when you make a well-informed decision about what you're flushing.
Choosing the Best Toilet Paper for Septic Tanks
First, here are four factors that matter when picking septic-safe toilet paper.
- Biodegradability is an important factor to consider when it comes to your septic tank because it affects how well the waste can be broken down and processed. Although all toilet paper is technically biodegradable, there are types better at biodegrading than others.
- Extreme thickness and absorbency claims should be approached with caution. While we all want a toilet paper with a soft feel that will get the job done, too much added material may mean it doesn't break down quickly and can cause a tax on your system, especially if it's older.
- Chemical additives, especially elemental chlorine, are a definite negative. Take it from the plumbing experts at Mr. Rooter Plumbing who inform us, "When toilet paper contains chlorine, it can upset the balance inside the septic tank and kill the bacteria that break down waste. If enough of this kind of toilet paper is used, it can lead to waste not breaking down in a timely manner." (2)
- Try to stick with natural materials. Because of the risk of introducing disruptive substances to the environment of your septic tank, choosing natural, sustainable, and non-toxic ingredients is best.
Each of these qualities determines the best toilet paper for septic tanks. Don't worry; we have an option that's going to guarantee you aren't putting anything that's not safe into your septic tank.
Bamboo is a Top Choice for Septic Tanks
Choosing bamboo means automatically getting all the right components you need and nothing that you don't want for your septic system!
Bamboo toilet paper is a top option for homeowners with septic tanks. First, bamboo biodegradability is far superior to that of traditional toilet paper. It's also free of harmful chemicals that could interfere with the delicate bacterial balance in your septic tank.
Top those things off with all-natural, non-toxic ingredients, and you've got the perfect companion for septic tanks.
Ensuring the safety of your septic system is just one great quality; 100% bamboo toilet paper has plenty of other perks, too.
There's peace of mind in knowing that bamboo toilet paper is going to keep your system safe from clogs and costly repairs, but we don't want you to forget all the other attributes that make bamboo toilet paper a strong choice for any system.
Other than bamboo being septic-safe, its comfort, durability, and eco-friendliness are unmatched.
Use Caution With Claims Made by Some Toilet Paper Brands
A lot of advertising tactics tout particular elements of toilet paper. On the surface, these seem appealing, but if you have a septic system, these misleading marketing claims could create a clog.
Flushable
Being flushable doesn't necessarily mean it's septic tank-friendly. Some flushable wipes, for example, may not break down as easily as regular toilet paper and their ingredients could disrupt the balance in your septic system.
Ultra-Soft or Extra-Strong
Toilet paper marketed as ultra-soft or extra-plush may be thicker and less likely to break down quickly. Many brands also include additives to improve softness or strength. Chemicals like formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, are sometimes included to increase the strength of the paper when wet. (3)
Added Lotion or Moisturizing
These simply add more chemicals and are often accompanied by fragrances and dyes. Also, they're another hindrance on the toilet paper's ability to break down.
Biodegradable
This term can be used loosely; not all biodegradable products break down quickly enough for septic systems.
Switch to the Best Toilet Paper for Septic Tanks
If you have a septic system, then bamboo is right for you. It's the choice that will keep your system safe, cutting down on the likelihood of clogs and ensuring the balance of bacteria is maintained.
Making the transition to 100% bamboo toilet paper is easy with ecoHiny. We offer a wide range of options for the number of rolls per order, and with our convenient subscription service, you'll receive regular deliveries. All you have to do is choose the frequency at checkout!
Anyone with a septic system needs to be aware of the ingredients and composition of their toilet paper. By choosing bamboo, you can rest assured that your system is safe.
- "Septic System Impacts on Water Sources." United States Environmental Protection Agency, www.epa.gov/septic/septic-system-impacts-water-sources.
- "The Best Toilet Paper for Septic Tanks." Mr. Rooter Plumbing, www.mrrooter.com/about/blog/2023/june/the-best-toilet-paper-for-septic-tanks
- "Is Your Toilet Paper Toxic?" College of Naturopathic Medicine, www.naturopathy-uk.com/news/blog/2023/01/13/is-your-toilet-paper-toxic/.
