Many items on the market today state that they are flushable. These items can include moist flushable wipes, disinfecting wipes, makeup-removing wipes, cleaning solutions, pipe cleaners, and more.

Nothing could be further from the truth.

Many of these items have one base material in common… cotton and plastic—neither of these items breaks down inside the septic tank. Septic tanks break down human waste—yes, urine and feces—as well as simple toilet paper. When items like wipes state they are “septic safe”, those words are just marketing jargon.

Top 10 Things You Shouldn’t Find in Your Septic Tank:

1. WIPES

This includes baby wipes, cleaning wipes, and even those labeled “flushable.” Wipes do not break down like toilet paper. They stay intact and clump together, causing major issues in your baffles and outlet tees. Over time, this will lead to backups, clogged lines, and a septic tank full of tangled mess. Toss all wipes in the trash—no exceptions.

2. FEMININE HYGIENE PRODUCTS

Tampons, pads, panty liners—none of these belong in your septic tank. These products are built to absorb and expand, not to dissolve. They can block the flow of waste, clog up your pipes, and collect inside your tank. Always wrap them up and dispose of them in a waste bin.

3. PAPER TOWELS

Paper towels are thick and durable for a reason, and that’s exactly why they don’t belong in your toilet. They’re not made to break down in water, and once flushed, they can settle in your tank or catch on other materials. Use them in the kitchen, not in the bathroom.

4. DIAPERS

This one might seem obvious, but we still see it more often than you’d think. Diapers are bulky, slow to break down (if at all), and can cause a total blockage. A single flushed diaper can require an emergency service call. Always place them in a trash can with a secure lid.

5. DENTAL FLOSS

It may seem small and harmless, but dental floss is stringy and strong. Once it gets inside your pipes, it can wrap around other materials and form a net-like trap that catches everything else you flush. Toss floss in the trash—it has no business in your septic system.

6. MEDICATIONS

Flushing expired or unused medications might feel like a safe way to get rid of them, but it’s not. Medications don’t belong in your septic tank because they can kill the bacteria that break down waste. Your system relies on healthy bacteria to function. Use a proper medication disposal method instead.

7. CAT LITTER

Even if it says “flushable,” cat litter does not belong in your septic tank. It clumps, adds grit and solids, and contributes to tank buildup. Plus, it may introduce parasites or other pathogens that don’t belong in wastewater treatment. Dispose of litter in the trash, always.

8. GREASE

This one is a kitchen culprit. Dumping cooking grease down the drain may seem harmless when it’s hot and liquid, but once it cools, it hardens. Grease coats your pipes, collects in your tank, and throws off the balance of the entire system. Let it cool and dispose of it in a sealed container in the trash.

9. CIGARETTE BUTTS

Cigarette butts don’t break down and are full of chemicals. They float in your tank, clog lines, and contribute nothing good to your septic system. Keep an ashtray handy and toss them in the garbage.

10. HAIR

Hair clumps together, tangles with other waste, and doesn’t break down. Whether it’s from shaving or cleaning out a brush, never flush it. It can easily get caught in pipes or baffles and lead to restricted flow.

Keeping your septic system healthy is all about what you choose not to flush. These simple habits go a long way in saving you money and stress.

When in doubt, throw it out—your septic system will thank you.