On a septic system, flush only human waste and toilet paper. Keep wipes (even ones labeled flushable), feminine products, paper towels, grease and cooking oil, coffee grounds, medications, paint and harsh chemicals out of toilets and drains. These items clog pipes, fill the tank faster, or harm the bacteria that break down waste.
Why septic systems need different habits
Homes on city sewer send wastewater to a treatment plant. A septic system treats wastewater on your own property. The tank relies on bacteria to break down waste, and the drain field relies on soil to absorb and filter the liquid. Anything that does not break down, or anything that kills the bacteria, makes the system work harder and can shorten the time between pumpings.
Many people move into septic homes in Rosedale, Oildale, Shafter, Lamont, Arvin, Tehachapi and the outer edges of Bakersfield after years on city sewer. Habits that were harmless before can cause real trouble on a septic system.
Never flush these
- Wipes of any kind, including those labeled flushable. They tend not to break down quickly and can clog pipes, pumps and filters.
- Feminine hygiene products and their applicators.
- Diapers.
- Paper towels, facial tissues and napkins, which are designed to stay strong when wet.
- Cotton balls, swabs and dental floss.
- Cat litter.
- Cigarette butts.
- Condoms.
Keep these out of the sink
- Grease, fats and cooking oil. They harden in pipes and add to the scum layer in the tank. Wipe pans with a paper towel and throw it in the trash.
- Coffee grounds. They do not break down well and add to sludge.
- Large amounts of food scraps. Garbage disposals send solids into the tank. Use them sparingly or compost scraps.
- Eggshells, bones and fibrous vegetable peels.
Avoid pouring these down any drain
- Medications. Ask your pharmacy about take-back options.
- Paint, paint thinner and solvents.
- Motor oil, antifreeze and gasoline.
- Pesticides and herbicides.
- Large amounts of bleach or harsh drain cleaners.
These products can harm the bacteria in the tank and can carry pollutants into the soil and groundwater. Kern County residents can check with the county or their city about household hazardous waste disposal options.
What about everyday cleaners?
Normal household use of most cleaning products is generally fine for a septic system. The concern is large amounts poured down at once, frequent use of strong antibacterial products, and chemical drain openers. If you have a clog, a plunger or a drain snake is usually a better first step than a chemical cleaner.
Water habits matter too
It is not only what goes down the drain but how much. A septic tank needs time for solids to settle. Large surges of water can push solids into the drain field.
- Spread laundry over the week.
- Fix leaky faucets and running toilets.
- Run the dishwasher and washing machine only with full loads.
- Do not drain hot tubs or pools into the septic system.
- Send roof gutters and yard runoff away from the drain field.
In Bakersfield summers, households often use more water. Being mindful during peak heat helps the system keep up.
What about septic additives?
Many products claim to help septic systems. They do not replace pumping, and some can cause problems. See our article on septic additives vs. pumping.
Signs something went down that should not have
If you notice a sudden slow drain, a backup, or gurgling after something was flushed, stop using water in that area and call for help. Do not keep flushing to try to clear it. Our guide to the signs of a full septic tank can help you tell whether it is a local clog or a system issue.
Kitchen and laundry tips for septic homes
- Use sink strainers to catch food particles.
- Scrape plates into the trash or compost before washing.
- Collect cooled grease in a can and put it in the trash.
- Consider a lint filter on your washing machine. Synthetic fibers can add to solids in the tank.
- Use the right amount of detergent rather than extra.
Teach guests and family
Guests and new household members may not know the home is on septic. A small, polite sign in the bathroom asking people to flush only toilet paper can prevent problems, especially in rentals and homes that host visitors.
Protect the drain field above ground
- Keep cars, trucks and trailers off the tank and drain field.
- Do not build patios, sheds or pools over the system.
- Plant grass over the drain field and keep trees with aggressive roots away.
Pumping is still necessary
Good habits extend the time between pumpings, but they do not eliminate it. Most households still need pumping every three to five years. See how often to pump.
Need service?
Call (661) 320-8662. We connect you with local septic providers serving Bakersfield, Oildale, Rosedale, Shafter, Lamont, Arvin, Tehachapi and nearby areas. If something got flushed that should not have, tell the provider what it was so they know what to look for.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are flushable wipes safe for septic?
It is best not to flush them. Many do not break down quickly and can clog pipes and the system.
Can I use bleach on a septic system?
Normal household cleaning amounts are generally fine. Avoid pouring large amounts down drains.
Is a garbage disposal OK with septic?
It can be used sparingly, but it adds solids to the tank and usually means more frequent pumping.
What should I do if a child flushed a toy?
Stop flushing that toilet and call for help. Continuing to flush can push the item further into the system.