Flush Only the 3 P’s: Pee, Poo, and (Toilet) Paper

If your home has a septic system, the number one rule is simple: only flush the 3 P’s. That stands for pee, poo, and toilet paper. These are the only materials your septic system is designed to handle. Everything else should go in the trash, not the toilet.

Following this rule helps protect your system from clogs, backups, and damage. It also reduces the need for emergency pumping or expensive repairs. It may not seem like a big deal to flush a wipe here and there, but over time those little choices can cause serious problems.

Why Other Items Don’t Belong

Toilet paper is made to dissolve quickly and completely in water. When it enters your septic tank, it breaks down efficiently and continues moving through the system without issue. That is not the case with most other materials.

Products like paper towels, baby wipes, and feminine hygiene items are designed to hold their shape and absorb moisture, not fall apart. Even facial tissues, which seem similar to toilet paper, are stronger and slower to break down. These items can build up in your tank, block lines, and interfere with the natural bacterial process that treats your household waste.

Once solids like these accumulate, your system will require more frequent pumping. If ignored, they can damage internal components and even lead to full system failure.

The Truth About “Flushable” Wipes

Despite what the packaging claims, there is no such thing as a septic-safe or truly flushable wipe. These products may make it past your toilet, but they do not break down in your tank like toilet paper does.

Instead, they tend to float, tangle, and wrap around baffles or outlet tees. Over time, they can restrict flow, cause backups, or even clog your system entirely. Many of the worst septic failures we see are the result of years of “flushable” wipe use.

If you’re using these wipes regularly, it is only a matter of time before your system pays the price.

What to Keep Out of Your Toilet

Septic systems are tough, but they are not built for trash. Keep these items out of your toilet to avoid problems:

• Baby wipes and flushable wipes
• Tampons, pads, and other sanitary products
• Paper towels and facial tissues
• Diapers and incontinence pads
• Cotton balls, swabs, and dental floss
• Cat litter, cigarette butts, and food waste

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

How to Keep Your System Healthy

Start with education. Make sure everyone in your household knows and follows the 3 P’s rule. Keep a trash can close to the toilet so it is easy to use. This small habit helps prevent people from flushing the wrong things.

Next, stay on top of regular maintenance. Routine pumping every 2 to 3 years and occasional inspections go a long way in preventing big problems. A healthy septic system runs quietly in the background. Following these simple rules keeps it that way.

Keeping your septic system protected is easier than you think. Follow the 3 P’s, avoid flushing anything else, and schedule regular maintenance. At HomeField Onsite Environmental, we are here to help you keep things flowing the right way.