While many septic tank owners pay close attention to what goes down their drains, there are still many everyday products we use that can harm your system. Using laundry products like fabric softeners can seriously affect your septic tank, causing casing buildups, clogs, and even complete failure. Read on to discover the impact of fabric softeners and how switching to natural alternatives can help you save big on septic tank maintenance.
What Are Fabric Softeners?
Fabric softeners add a layer of electrically charged chemical compounds onto fibers, making them feel softer and gentler on your skin. Some of the top reasons people use fabric softeners include:
- Softer fabric
- Reduced static
- Fewer wrinkles
- Fresh smells
- Reduced stretching and pilling
While these products may offer several benefits to the touch and texture of your laundry, they contain harmful chemicals that negatively affect your health and septic system. Many contain surfactants, phosphates, and parabens that can have serious long-term effects.
How Fabric Softeners Impact Septic Tanks
While using fabric softeners may seem like a great way to make your laundry feel soft and fresh, they can significantly impact your septic system’s health. The chemicals found in fabric softeners, such as surfactants, phosphates, and parabens, disrupt the balance of bacteria in your septic tank. Bacteria are essential for breaking down the waste in your tank, ensuring the system’s proper function. Disrupting the balance of these bacteria can cause waste to back up, causing clogs and even complete system failure.
The chemicals in fabric softeners can also create a residue that builds up over time, creating blockages in your tank, pipes, and drain. As the residue accumulates, you’ll begin to notice slow-moving drains, foul odors, and system backups that can affect your entire household. If you have a sewer line belly, even more waste will become trapped, leading to more severe blockages.
Over time, fabric softeners can cause serious problems in your septic tank. Residue buildup and clogs will require frequent septic pumping and potential costly repairs. Eventually, the entire system may fail, and you’ll need to replace the tank or drain field.
Are Fabric Softeners Safe for Septic Systems?
While some fabric softeners may be labeled as “safe” for your system, this is often still untrue for excessive usage. These products may be fine for someone’s system who only does one load of laundry per week. However, they could be detrimental for someone doing three or four loads.
The type and amount of fabric softener you use per load will also determine the effects on your septic system. Using too much softener, or one that contains excessive chemicals, will cause residue to accumulate in your drain, leading to buildups and reduced bacteria. Opting for softening products like dryer sheets or balls is a safer alternative that minimizes the impact on your septic system.
Alternatives to Fabric Softeners for Septic Systems
To reduce the impact on your system, consider opting for septic-safe alternatives. The following brands offer eco-friendly laundry products that help protect your septic system while keeping your clothes fresh:
- Seventh Generation
- Ecos
- Biokleen
- Method
- Mrs. Myers
When searching for septic-safe laundry products, always check the label to ensure they are free of harsh chemicals such as phosphates, parabens, and synthetic fibers.
Natural alternatives are also available. Instead of fabric softener, consider substituting a quarter cup of white vinegar. You can also use a half cup of baking soda per load to soften clothes and reduce odors. Search online to discover a wide range of DIY fabric softener recipes that are gentle on your system.
Tips for Protecting Your Septic Tank While Doing Laundry
Doing laundry is a part of everyday life, so it’s important to protect your septic system to reduce the chance of costly repairs or failure. Some of the best ways to minimize the impact on your septic system include:
- Opting for eco-friendly fabric softeners: Look for fabric softeners without harsh chemicals to reduce the chance of residue buildup and clogs.
- Using natural alternatives: Create your own fabric softener at home using natural alternatives like vinegar or baking soda.
- Using a high-efficiency washing machine: These machines use less water and detergent, reducing the strain on your septic tank.
- Avoid excessive water usage: Space out your loads to prevent overflowing your septic tank.
- Regular septic tank maintenance: Schedule a professional septic tank pumping at least once every three to five years to clear your system and ensure proper function.
- Consider switching to a sewer system: If you’re constantly dealing with septic tank issues, consider the potential benefits of switching to a sewer system.
Signs Your Septic System Is Affected by Fabric Softeners
There are a few common signs that fabric softeners have begun to take their toll on your system, including:
- Slow-moving drains: If water drains slowly in your sinks, bathtubs, or showers, your septic system may be clogged.
- Foul odors: When your septic system isn’t working correctly, foul sewer odors can linger around your home.
- Frequent problems: If you have to pump your septic tank more frequently than usual, fabric softeners may be reducing its ability to break down waste.
If you notice any of the above, contact a professional for a septic system inspection. They’ll check for leaks, blockages, or other issues and determine the best way to restore your system.
Call Express Plumbing to Schedule Septic Tank Services Today!
If you suspect fabric softeners are affecting your septic system, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Call the team at Express Plumbing Heating & Air to schedule a septic inspection today! We include a free inspection report with every pump. Our expert technicians have decades of experience serving the Treasure Valley area, offering comprehensive septic services that keep your tank in perfect health.
Call us or book online to schedule your appointment today!
