The best (and worst) septic tank toilet paper

With so many rules to follow about what you can and can’t put down your toilet and drains, you might think that toilet paper is toilet paper and it doesn’t really matter what sort you use. Whatever you bum prefers, right? Wrong! Choosing the right septic tank toilet paper is more important than you might think. Septic systems are designed to handle waste efficiently. However, the type of toilet paper you use can significantly impact how well your system functions.

Some toilet papers break down easily and are safe for septic tanks. Others can cause blockages or have chemicals harmful to a tank’s bacteria. As septic tank experts covering Scotland and the north of England, we’ve seen out fair share of toilet paper disasters. Here’s a rundown of the types of paper to go for and avoid.

Best types of toilet paper for septic tanks

The best type of toilet paper for septic tanks is one that is biodegradable and dissolves quickly in water. Biodegradable toilet paper is specifically designed to break down rapidly once it enters the septic system, reducing the risk of clogs and build-up in your tank. Biodegradable toilet paper is often made from recycled materials, making it an environmentally friendly choice as well.

Another key factor is the ply of the toilet paper. Sure, we all love a nice thick double or triple ply, but this can cause problems with the way septic tanks work. Single-ply toilet paper tends to dissolve more easily than thicker, multi-ply options, making it a safer choice for septic systems. So unfortunately you will have to decide on whether to give your bottom an extra-special treat, or if you want to avoid septic tank issues down the line.

Some companies offer toilet paper specifically designed for septic tanks, for example Papernet and Novatissue.

Worst types of toilet paper for septic tanks

The worst types of toilet paper for septic tanks are those that are thick and heavily quilted. These types of toilet paper don’t break down easily and can cause serious problems in a septic system. Any that contain added lotions or perfumes should be avoided at all costs. These types of rolls often contain chemicals that can disrupt the natural bacterial balance in your septic tank, which is essential for breaking down waste. When these products accumulate, they can lead to blockages, slow drainage, and even septic system failure. If you find you have a blockage, perhaps because you didn’t realise the importance of choosing the right paper, then we can help.

Paper over the cracks

So if you have a septic tank, it’s best to choose toilet paper that is single-ply, biodegradable, and free of added chemicals. Remembering these three rules can ensure a longer-lasting septic system and keep everything running smoothly. By selecting the right type of septic tank toilet paper, you can help ensure that your septic system remains healthy for many years.