Treating a septic system properly is important for homeowners to avoid major expenses. A septic tank is an underground chamber made of concrete, fiberglass, or plastic through which domestic wastewater flows for basic treatment. Settling and anaerobic processes reduce solids and organics, but the treatment is only moderate. Every homeowner should understand the intricacies of a septic system.
It is important to know what you can put into the toilet. In this article, we will learn what septic-safe toilet paper means, as well as why that is important, and if Charmin is septic-safe. If you send the wrong products down the drain, you can disturb the delicate balance in the septic system.
Let’s learn more!
Why Your Toilet Paper Choice Matters for Septic Systems
Septic systems work very differently from city sewer systems. Instead of a municipal treatment plant doing the heavy lifting, your septic tank relies on naturally occurring bacteria and enzymes to break down waste.
When you flush, solids settle to the bottom of the tank, liquids flow out to the drain field, and bacteria decompose organic material. If you send the wrong products down the drain like thick non-dissolving paper or chemical-laden wipes, you throw off the delicate balance. Continuing this practice can lead to:
- Clogged pipes and backups
- Slow drains
- Pooling water in the yard
- Costly septic repairs or premature tank replacement
That’s why choosing septic tank safe toilet paper is important.
What is Septic Safe Toilet Paper
Septic-safe toilet paper is specially designed to dissolve quickly in water. When flushed, it breaks down into small particles that bacteria can easily digest. This way, buildups inside pipes and tanks can be prevented.
The septic-friendly toilet paper has:
- Rapid dissolvability: The paper disintegrates quickly in water, reducing the chance of clogs.
- Biodegradability: It is made from materials that naturally decompose.
- Limited ply count: 1-ply and 2-ply are ideal, as they break down faster than thicker ones.
- Chemical-free composition: Without dyes, fragrances, and lotions, it is safe; otherwise, it can harm beneficial bacteria.
Is Charmin Septic Safe?
Charmin claims its toilet paper is septic-safe. Most of their products are designed to disintegrate rapidly to prevent septic tank issues. Charmin labels their toilet papers “Septic Safe” and “Clog-Free”. Nevertheless, it’s wise to monitor your specific septic system’s reaction to different brands.
Let’s look at the best type of toilet paper for the septic tank.
Types of Septic Safe Toilet Paper
While choosing the best toilet paper for the septic tank, you need to check if it’s quick-dissolving, thin, and unscented. Along with these, there are a few more things to notice:
Recycled Toilet Paper
Opting for recycled toilet paper can be a smart move. Recycled paper tends to have shorter fibers, which help it dissolve faster. It’s a win-win for your septic system and good for the environment.
Biodegradable Toilet Paper
Biodegradable toilet paper is designed to decompose naturally in the environment. These are an excellent choice for septic tank owners. These toilet papers reduce clog risk and are good for the environment.
Non-Tree Toilet Paper
Toilet paper made from materials other than traditional wood pulp, like bamboo or sugarcane, is becoming more popular. Typically, these alternative materials dissolve quickly and are also septic-safe and sustainable.
What to Avoid Flushing into Your Septic System
Even the septic-safe toilet papers won’t help if other non-dissolving items find their way into your pipes. You need to keep these things out of your system:
- Thick, quilted, or ultra-plush paper
- Flushable wipes, because they don’t dissolve completely
- Paper towels or tissues
- Feminine hygiene products
- Cotton swabs, dental floss, or diapers
- Cooking oils, grease, or harsh chemicals
These materials can clog lines, disturb bacterial activity, and cause serious backups.
How to Test Your Toilet Paper at Home
If you are not sure that your toilet paper is truly septic-safe, try this simple jar test at home:
- Fill a clear glass jar three-quarters with tap water
- Add 4-8 sheets of your toilet paper to it
- Seal the jar and shake it vigorously for 10-15 seconds
- Let it sit for a few minutes
- Observe the results:
- If it breaks down into fine particles, it is septic-safe
- If it stays clumpy or intact, it’s not good for your system
This quick and easy test mimics what happens inside your pipes and septic tank.
Certifications for Septic Safe Toilet Paper
There are certifications that you can look for on the toilet paper when shopping for one that will be good for your system. You will look for the “Septic Safe” label or the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) stamp. These endorsements offer reassurance that you’re picking a product that’s gentle on your septic system. Also, NSF, which ensures it’s safe for septic systems.
Beyond Toilet Paper: How to Maintain the Septic Tank
Now that you know Charmin is septic-safe, let’s look at a few other areas of maintenance for the septic tank.
One of those is knowing when the septic tank is full. You will be able to know if you take off the lid and see that the level is high. There are some signs in the yard, such as pooling water, slow drains, odors, a healthy lawn, sewage backup, or gurgling water, to name a few.
Another is finding a septic tank lid. To find the lid in your backyard, look at the septic system plans if you have them. Another idea is to follow the sewer pipe.
Lastly, sometimes you need to increase the bacteria in your septic tank. This is because the solids sometimes don’t break down, so increasing the bacteria will help slow down the build-up.
Here are some tips for homeowners that can help keep the septic system in good working condition:
- Pump regularly: Have your tank pumped every 3-5 years, depending on usage
- Inspect annually: Professional inspections catch small issues before they escalate into bigger ones
- Conserve water: spread out laundry loads and use low-flow fixtures.
- Flush smart: Only flush human waste and septic-safe toilet paper
- Avoid chemicals: Harsh cleaners or antibacterial products can disrupt bacterial balance
When Do I Call a Professional?
If you notice slow drains, unpleasant odors, or water pooling near your drain field, it’s time to call in the cavalry. Professionals can diagnose and fix any underlying issues before they become disasters. Don’t hesitate to call in the cavalry when symptoms of septic stress materialize. Professionals can maneuver through the muck with precision, saving your system from distress.
Take a look below at this video that looks at Charmin and Kirkland brands to see which is better for your septic tank.
Conclusion
Caring for your septic system is a blend of common sense and proactive upkeep. As far as it’s about the Charmin toilet paper, yes, it is safe for the septic system when used responsibly. You should always choose the right toilet paper because it plays a more significant role than you might think.
Always choose septic tank safe toilet paper of any brand, maintain your system regularly, and be mindful of what you flush. By staying informed and selecting products that cater to the health of your system, you’re not just making a choice for today but investing in the hassle-free operation of your household for years to come.
If you are already experiencing slow drains or other septic issues, reach out to RedFish Inspections Home Inspection services for a septic inspection and home inspection in Houston, TX, and the surrounding areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Charmin toilet paper actually safe for septic tanks?
Yes, Charmin’s toilet paper is designed to break down and biodegrade safely within septic systems, and the brand backs this up with lab testing.
- Do all Charmin varieties break down the same way?
Not exactly, the Ultra Soft takes a bit longer while the Charmin Essentials dissolve faster. Both are labeled as septic safe, but lighter varieties are better for the system.
- Why do some plumbers advise caution with Charmin?
Because the thicker and multi-ply papers, despite being septic-safe, can take longer to break down. Overuse can also slow your system’s drain.
- Does Charmin offer a clog-free guarantee?
Yes, Charmin offers a money-back guarantee if a clog occurs due to the usage of their dry toilet paper.
- Can Charmin Freshmates (flushable wipes) be used with a septic system?
They are labeled flushable and septic-safe, but it’s best to flush only one or two wipes at a time to avoid buildup.
