If your home features a septic tank installation, you likely know to be careful about what you put into it. There are many substances that can throw off the whole system and cause serious issues. However, one that many people aren’t aware of is fabric softener. While it’s great for your clothes, it can be detrimental to the septic system. Here’s a closer look at the effects it has and what you can use instead.

Why Fabric Softener Isn’t Safe for Septic Systems

Inside the septic tank installation, there’s a delicate balance of enzymes and bacteria that are used to process the waste generated in the home, break it down, and release it into the drain field. When certain contaminants get into the system, it disrupts this balance, which may cause waste to build up in the tank and ultimately back up into the home.

Unfortunately, fabric softener contains many of these contaminants. The petroleum products, emulsion stabilizers, silicone-based anti-foaming chemicals, and quats—short for quaternary ammonium compounds—that make fabric softeners so effective at protecting your clothes can kill the bacteria and enzymes in the tank. 

Fabric Softener Alternatives

Luckily, you can still enjoy softer fabrics without putting your septic system at risk of failure. An easy, at-home solution is to make your own softening agent. Use half a cup of grain-based white vinegar per load during the rinse cycle for a natural, septic-safe solution. You can also add half a cup of baking soda to the machine. Let it dissolve in the water before adding the clothes, so it can soften the water and reduce static cling on your clothes and linens.

Alternatively, rather than treating your fabrics during the wash, get the same benefits by using safe solutions during the drying process. One solution is dryer sheets. These remove static cling during the drying cycle and make clothes feel more comfortable. You could also use tennis balls or special dryer balls as a greener alternative to disposable sheets.

 

Make sure your home’s septic tank installation stays protected by working with the experts at Chris Mote’s Pumping Service. With more than 30 years of septic service experience in the greater Gainesville and Cleveland, GA, areas, their team of technicians has the experience, tools, and customer service needed to keep your system operating efficiently. Visit their website for more information on what they offer or call (770) 530-2034 to schedule an appointment.