As a homeowner, you may not realize that many of the chemicals used to clean your house can have a harmful effect on your septic system. Harsh ingredients such as ammonia and bleach can kill the helpful bacteria needed to break down waste and eliminate dangerous pathogens, leading to contaminated groundwater. Luckily, there are many mild ingredients you can use that won’t harm your system. The following brief guide covers septic system-safe cleaning agents and a few recipes for common household cleansers.

Household Ingredients That Are Septic System-Safe

You may already have many septic tank-safe cleaning ingredients around your house. Baking soda and white vinegar, for example, can be used as cleansers and deodorizers. Borax can clean, disinfect, and serve as a water softener and laundry aid. Lemon, salt, and plain soap are effective cleansers, and boiling water can be used as a liquid drain cleaner.

Recipes for Cleaners 

All-Purpose Cleaner

Mix one teaspoon of Borax with one quart of warm water. Add a drop of white vinegar or lemon juice to help cut grease.

Disinfectant

Add ¼ cup of Borax to a gallon of hot water.

Drain Cleaner

As a preventative measure, pour a gallon of boiling water down the drain weekly to keep it clean and clear. To remove clogs, pour ½ cup of baking soda and ½ cup of white vinegar down the drain, then close the drain tightly. Once fizzing stops, flush the drain with a gallon of boiling water.

Bathroom Cleaner

In addition to mild soap and a sponge, you can use a stiff brush with baking soda, Borax, or salt to clean tile, tubs, and toilets.

Window & Glass Cleaner

In an empty spray bottle, combine one part water to one part white vinegar. Spray dirty areas and wipe gently with a clean cloth.

Lime & Mineral Deposit Remover

Saturate a clean cloth in white vinegar and place it on top of lime stains or mineral deposits. Let sit for an hour, then remove. Deposits should be softened and easy to wipe away.

For more tips on maintaining your septic system, get in touch with American On Site in Clackamas County, OR. For nearly 20 years, this local septic contractor has helped residents throughout Willamette Valley with everything from inspections and repairs to septic tank pumping and maintenance. Visit their website to learn more about their services, and call (503) 829-7600 to schedule an appointment.