Having a septic system comes with the responsibility of being mindful of what goes down your drains. Many common household cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can damage your septic system over time. Using septic safe cleaning products is an easy way to avoid unnecessary strain on your septic tank and leach field. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about choosing the best septic safe household cleaners.

What is a Septic System?

Before diving into septic safe cleaners, let’s briefly go over what exactly a septic system is and how it works. A septic system is an onsite wastewater treatment system commonly used in rural areas without access to municipal sewer systems.

A typical septic system consists of two main parts:

Septic Tank – This is an underground holding tank designed to collect all wastewater from your home. The heavy solids in the wastewater sink to the bottom of the tank forming sludge, while oils and grease float to the top as scum. The liquid wastewater in the middle is called effluent.
Drain Field – The effluent exits the septic tank and is distributed into perforated pipes buried in gravel trenches also known as the drain field or leach field. This allows the wastewater to slowly seep into the surrounding soil where further treatment occurs.

With regular maintenance like pumping, a well-functioning septic system can provide an effective and environmentally friendly means of treating household wastewater. However, certain chemicals found in household cleaning products can damage your septic system.

Why Use Septic Safe Cleaners?

Many common cleaning agents contain chemicals that can potentially harm septic systems in the following ways:

Kill beneficial bacteria – Septic systems rely on good bacteria to break down waste. Harsh chemicals can kill these essential bacteria.
Cause clogs – Some ingredients can congeal into solid masses causing drainage backups. Grease and oils are common clogging culprits.
Contaminate groundwater – Septic drain fields allow effluent to percolate into the soil. Harmful chemicals can leach into groundwater supplies.

Using septic safe cleaners avoids these problems by reducing the amount of detrimental substances entering the wastewater stream. Protecting your septic system will save you from expensive repairs down the road.

Now let’s take a look at some of the best septic safe household cleaning products available.

Best Septic Safe Laundry Detergents

Laundry makes up a significant portion of household wastewater. The chemicals in laundry detergents, bleaches, and fabric softeners can be hard on septic systems. Here are some of the top septic safe laundry options:

1. Seventh Generation Laundry Detergent

Plant-based formula is septic safe and greywater approved
Contains no dyes, chlorine, phosphates, or synthetic fragrances
Available in liquid and powder forms

2. ECOS Laundry Detergent

Uses plant-derived cleansing agents and natural enzymes for septic safety
Free of phosphates, phthalates, and dyes
Leaves no chemical residue on fabrics
Hypoallergenic and dermatologist tested

3. Dropps Laundry Detergent Pods

Pods dissolve completely leaving no residue
Contains plant-based stain fighters and whitening agents
Certified septic and greywater safe
Available in scented and unscented options

4. Bio-Soft Laundry Detergent by Boulder Clean

Specifically designed for septic systems and greywater reuse
Powered by naturally-derived surfactants and vegetable enzymes
Biodegradable formula breaks down quickly

5. Tru Earth Eco-Strips Laundry Detergent

Each strip is individually wrapped to avoid waste
Free of chlorine, phosphates, dyes, and artificial fragrances
Septic system approved and biodegradable

Best Septic Safe Dish Soaps

The greases and oils present in dish soaps can accumulate in septic tanks leading to clogging issues. Using a septic safe dish soap helps keep drains free-flowing. Here are the top choices:

1. Seventh Generation Dish Liquid Soap

Powered by plant-based ingredients instead of synthetic chemicals
Cuts through grease while remaining septic and greywater safe
Available in a variety of essential oil scents
No phthalates, phosphates, dyes, or chlorine

2. Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Dish Soap

Uses plant-derived soaps, essential oils, and natural ingredients
Comes in popular scents like lavender, lemon, and apple blossom
Greywater approved and septic system safe formula
Grease-cutting power degreases dishes

3. ECOS Dishmate Dish Liquid

Combines plant-sourced surfactants and lemon oil for cutting grease
Contains no formaldehyde, phthalates, or synthetic perfumes
Rinses cleanly without leaving residue behind
Graywater compatible and septic safe

4. Planet Dish Soap

Powers through grease with coconut-based cleansing agents
Free of toxins like chlorine, phthalates, and petroleum distillates
Will not harm septic systems or greywater reuse
Available fragranced or unscented

5. Grab Green Naturally Derived Dish Soap

Uses plant-derived ingredients like coconut and sugar surfactants
Cleans dishes thoroughly while remaining septic safe
Biodegrades rapidly without harming septic microbial ecosystems
Leaves no soapy residue behind on dishes

Best Septic Safe All-Purpose Cleaners

All-purpose cleaners are used to sanitize surfaces throughout the home. It is important to choose an option that avoids toxic chemicals which can damage your septic system. Here are some top septic safe choices:

1. Seventh Generation All-Purpose Cleaner

Powered by plant-derived soaps and natural citrus extracts
Cuts through grease, grime, and dirt without harsh chemicals
Septic and graywater system approved
Also available in disinfecting formula

2. Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Multi-Surface Everyday Cleaner

Contains plant-derived cleaning agents like lavender essential oil
Biodegradable formula will not disrupt septic ecosystems
Cleans and degreases without leaving residue behind
Safe for use around pets and children due to non-toxic profile

3. Puracy Natural Multi-Surface Cleaner

Uses plant-based surfactants to lift dirt and grime
Free of chlorine, ammonia, phosphates, sulfates, and petrochemicals
Approved for use with septic systems and gray water
Comes in scents like lavender, grapefruit, and sweet mandarin

4. Biokleen Bac-Out All Purpose Cleaner

Live cultures and plant-based ingredients kill odors naturally
Designed to be safe for sewer systems, septic tanks, and drain fields
Can be used as a degreaser, floor cleaner, and odor eliminator
Contains no phosphorous, chlorine, ammonia, or triclosan

5. ECOS All-Purpose Cleaner

Cleans using the power of plant-derived ingredients
Will not disrupt biological processes within septic systems
Contains no added dyes, synthetic fragrances, or formaldehyde
Rinses clean without leaving residue behind

Best Septic Safe Bathroom Cleaners

Regular bathroom cleaning is a must, but many commercial bathroom products contain problematic chemicals. Here are some septic safe bathroom cleaner options:

1. Lysol Power Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Specially formulated for use with septic systems
Uses naturally-derived, septic-safe ingredients
Removes tough stains and limescale without harsh fumes
Septic system approved and biodegradable formula

2. Seventh Generation Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Employs the cleaning power of citric acid
Non-caustic formula is safe for sewer systems
Removes stubborn stains and hard water marks
Only uses plant-based ingredients like essential thyme oil

3. Clorox Green Works Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Cleans and deodorizes toilet bowls without harsh chemicals
Will not disrupt biological processes within septic tanks
Removes lime, rust, and grime stains with natural acids
Uses plant-based cleansing agents that rapidly biodegrade

4. Lysol Click Gel Automatic Toilet Bowl Cleaner

Gel formula clings to the toilet bowl for thorough cleaning
Septic system approved formula will not harm septic microbial ecosystems
Helps prevent tough stains from developing
Provides long-lasting freshness between scrubbings

5. Puracy Natural Bathroom Cleaner

Powers through soap scum and hard water stains
Plant-based, hypoallergenic formula for septic tank safety
Contains no harsh chemicals like chlorine, phosphates, or ammonia
Available in scents like lavender, citrus, or unscented

Best Septic Safe Drain Cleaners

Avoiding chemical drain clogs is important when you have a septic system. These septic safe options will keep drains free-flowing:

1. Liquid Plumr Foaming Pipe Snakes

Specially designed with septic systems in mind
Clings to pipes and persists through entire drain length
Naturally derived formula is safe for plumbing and septic
Quickly dissolves hair, soap scum, fats, oils, and grease

2. Green Gobbler Bio Drain Cleaner

Contains powerful live bacteria cultures to devour organics
Safe for all drains and septic systems
Dissolves hair, food residues, fats, and oils naturally
Prevents future drain clogging and blockages

3. Earthworm Septic Drain Opener and Deodorizer

Uses natural enzymes to liquefy organic materials
Restores proper drainage without harming septic systems
Eliminates foul odors at their bacterial source
Available in liquid packets or powder shaker form

4. OdoBan Grease & Waste Water Solvent

Septic tank approved and environmentally responsible formula
Dissolves grease, fats, hair, and other common clogging culprits
Mixes with water for easy application down household drains
Helps deodorize foul drain smells

5. Bio-Clean Drain Septic Drain Treatment

Enzymes and bacteria go to work digesting organic waste
Converts grease and oils into water to keep drains free-flowing
Designed specifically to protect septic system drain fields
Provides effective maintenance between professional pumpings

Best Septic Safe Surface Disinfectants

Disinfecting household surfaces to kill germs is especially important in kitchens and bathrooms. However, many commercial disinfectants contain harsh antimicrobial chemicals. Here are some septic-safe options:

1. Lysol Power Bathroom Cleaner

Approved for use with septic systems
Kills 99.9% of viruses and bacteria
Uses hydrogen peroxide as the active cleaning agent
Works on soap scum and hard water stains too

2. Clorox Scentiva Bathroom Disinfecting Foam Cleaner

Foaming formula clings to surfaces for thorough disinfection
Will not disrupt biological processes taking place in septic systems
Kills bacteria and prevents mold and mildew growth
Leaves a pleasant lingering scent after cleaning

3. Microban 24 Hour Bathroom Cleaner

Provides 24-hour antimicrobial protection between cleanings
Designed for use with septic systems and graywater reclamation
Based on thymol from thyme oil for natural germ-killing
Cuts through soap scum, limescale, and hard water marks

4. Method Antibacterial Bathroom Cleaner

Uses naturally-derived citric acid to eliminate bacteria
Graywater compatible and septic safe formula
Minty-fresh scent from plant-based essential oils
Cleans soap scum and hard water stains without bleach

5. Aunt Fannie’s Disinfecting Bathroom Cleaner

Uses vinegar and plant-oil disinfectants to kill germs
Will not harm septic system microbial ecosystems
Cleans soap scum, mildew stains, and grime
Pleasant citrus scent from plant extract oils

Best Septic Safe Cleaning Habits

Choosing the right septic safe cleaning products is a great first step. But your cleaning habits also impact your septic system. Here are some good practices to adopt:

Stick to the recommended product doses. Too much can be just as bad as harsh chemicals.
Allow soiled dishes to soak before washing to avoid sending large food particles down the drain.
Collect fat/grease in cans rather than pouring it down drains. The same goes for bacon grease and pan drippings.
Make sure to run plenty of water when using a garbage disposal to flush particles down the drain.
Limit use of harsh abrasive scrubs which can remove microbial films.
Avoid dumping paints, pesticides, automotive fluids or other hazardous products into drains. Properly dispose of them instead.
Conserve water in general to avoid overloading your septic system.
Have your septic tank professionally inspected and pumped regularly.

Septic System Maintenance Tips

Along with using septic safe cleaners, proper septic system maintenance is crucial for longevity. Here are some key maintenance tips:

Inspect your septic tank annually and pump every 3-5 years or as recommended.
Avoid planting trees near your leach field as the roots can damage pipes.
Don’t drive vehicles over your drain field to prevent soil compaction.
Divert rainwater runoff away from your drain field to avoid oversaturation.
Limit water usage from activities like running washing machines to avoid hydraulic overloads.
Remove and replace clogged tees or filters in your plumbing.
Use microbial additives to replenish bacteria populations after pumping your tank.
If you have an aerator pump, inspect it regularly for needed repairs or replacements.
Contact a professional immediately at the first signs of a problem or backup.

Signs You Need Your Septic Tank Pumped

How do you know when it’s time to call the professionals for a septic tank pumping? Here are some telling signs:

Standing water or muddy soil around your drain field
Drain pipes gurgling or making noises during operation
Plumbing backups like slow drains or bubbling toilets
Dark blackish effluent leaking from your drain pipes
Septic odors inside your home or around the tank
Cracked or damaged inspection ports and access covers
Failure of your septic system inspection
It has been over 5 years since your last scheduled pump

Scheduling regular septic tank pumpings every 3-5 years is recommended for optimal performance. Reputable septic tank contractors can assess your system and make recommendations for your particular usage case. Addressing problems early is the best way to maximize the life of your septic system.

Septic System Do’s and Don’ts

To wrap up, here is a quick summary of some key do’s and don’ts when you have a septic system:

Do:

Do use septic safe soaps, detergents, and cleaners.
Do conserve water and avoid overloading the system.
Do have your tank inspected annually.
Do pump the tank regularly every 3-5 years.
Do keep accurate records of cleanings and maintenance.

Don’t:

Don’t flush grease, fats, oils and abrasives down drains.
Don’t use bleach, disinfectants, and caustic drain openers.
Don’t flush plastic, paper towels, diapers, or feminine products.
Don’t drive or park vehicles over your septic system or leach field.
Don’t plant trees near your leach field. Roots can cause damage.
Don’t make or allow repairs without obtaining required permits.

Using septic safe household cleaners is one of the easiest ways to maintain your septic system. Pair it with good maintenance habits and your septic system can provide years of reliable service. Refer to this guide anytime you need help choosing ideal septic safe soaps, detergents, and cleaning products for your home.

Best Septic Safe Household Cleaning Products FAQs

Below are some frequently asked questions about choosing the best septic safe household cleaning products:

How do I know if a cleaning product is septic safe?

Look for the words “septic safe” or “septic approved” clearly stated on the product label. Also check that the active ingredients are plant-based without harsh chemicals like bleach, ammonia, or phosphates. Reference septic-safe product lists from reputable home improvement outlets.

What ingredients should be avoided in septic systems?

Avoid products containing bleach, ammonia, phthalates, chlorine, phosphates, petroleum distillates, synthetic dyes, and antimicrobial agents like triclosan. Also steer clear of caustic drain cleaners.

Can I use vinegar in a septic system?

Yes, vinegar is generally considered septic safe. The acetic acid in vinegar can help dissolve mineral deposits and grease. Use diluted vinegar in moderation to avoid lowering pH levels excessively.

Are natural cleaners really septic safe?

Natural cleaners using plant-derived ingredients and essential oils are usually septic tank friendly. However, “natural” is not an automatic guarantee of septic safety. Check the product label to confirm it is septic approved.

What is the most environmentally friendly septic safe detergent?

Look for detergents containing plant-based ingredients like