Does Hair Break Down In A Septic Tank? Trust The Answer

Today was my first experience of cleaning the filter at the exit of a septic tank. Easier than I expected, a screw cap on the bottom surface, then the concrete cap in the “well”. I’ve always assumed that hair is digested in septic tanks. We usually collect the hair on the shower and tub drain strainer and throw it down the toilet. The stuff in the septic strainer had a lot of hairs, the hairs held most of it together. Obviously, hair is organic and can be incinerated for disposal. I don’t like throwing wet things in the trash can. But it now looks like hair in the septic tank is no good. The 4-year accumulation in the filter was about 1 liter of “stuff”. Yes, I know that annual cleaning is recommended and that 3 years is the maximum cleaning interval. Anyone who shaves with a razor and soap suds is sure to put (short) hair in the septic tank. Washing long hair leads to significant hair loss, especially in the elderly. Does anyone know about the chemistry of septic tanks? what about the hair

Almost everyone has experienced a clogged drain or sink from having too much hair. This is pretty normal as we all shed hair – some more than others. When this happens, we usually clean our drains and forget it happened in the first place. However, what happens when you have a septic tank? Can your septic tank be affected by hair?

The simple answer is yes. This is because hair is made up of tough protein strands that are not easily broken down by bacteria compared to other organic debris. This means they cannot be broken down in 24 to 48 hours, which is the normal time a substance is held in a septic tank. This keeps the hair intact for months while being kept in the septic tank and pipes. This becomes a problem when it clogs the tank, which occurs when the hair catches debris and doesn’t allow it to flow past. When this happens, slow draining and backups usually result.

However, just because you and your family members lose hair does not always mean that the aquarium will suffer. Some septic tanks have filters in the outlet baffle that trap the hair and remove it from the system during maintenance cleaning. Another important factor is the size of the tank. If the tank is the right size for household use and the effluent has a reasonable holding time, the hair will settle and become part of the sludge at the bottom of the tank. Getting a Poughkeepsie NY septic tank cleaned will remove the sludge (including the hair).

One thing to be careful about is using chemicals to dissolve the hair. Some people make the mistake of doing this in hopes it will prevent constipation. Instead, harsh chemicals actually kill the bacteria in the tank; Without these bacteria, the waste cannot be broken down.

When hair is interfering with the functionality of your septic tank, the best way to combat it is to have your septic tank cleaned by Poughkeepsie NY every 3 to 5 years. For more information contact us at Jones Septic Services.

Almost everyone has had to deal with clogged sinks, drains and sewage systems or sewer pipes at some point in their life. It can be a messy affair, take time and generally be a gross event that needs to be resolved. Why does hair cause so many septic tank problems when it goes down the drain?

The answer lies in what hair is made of. Hair is made of tough strands of protein, similar to the material that fingernails are made of. For many reasons, these types of proteins are not as easily broken down by bacteria as organic waste. The average holding time in a septic tank for most sewage treatment plants is 24-48, which is not enough to break down these complex proteins.

Because of this, hair in the septic tank, pipes and drain field of the septic tank will not break down for months. Due to the complex nature, hair will not deteriorate for hundreds of years in a suitable environment. There are many human remains that are exhumed after hundreds of years and the body hair is there.

If a septic tank has a filter in the outlet baffle, hair will be trapped and removed from the system during regular maintenance cleanings. If the household septic tank is properly sized and there is enough residence time for the sewage, the hair will settle and become part of the layer of sludge at the bottom of the septic tank. It is pumped out together with the residual sludge during the periodic pumping out of the septic tank, which is carried out every two or three years. If there is no filter or the holding time is not sufficient, the hair can flow freely through the system until it finally reaches the drainage field (if it does not cause a blockage on the way there).

Clogs occur when hair hits an obstacle and accumulates, forming a filter and trapping passing objects and organic debris. What starts as a few strands wedged in a pipe joint or pinched in a pipe bend will eventually grow into a full blown clog over time. Difficult-flowing drains and congestion are usually the result.

The best way to deal with these clogs is to try to unclog them mechanically, using a snake or disassembling the plumbing to remove the clog. However, many homeowners will attempt to deal with these clogs by using chemicals to dissolve the hair. As has been quoted many times in other blogs on this site, these chemicals are generally bad news. They can unclog the clog, but they can also damage the bacterial environment in the septic tank and cause even more problems. Some of these chemicals can eventually find their way into the water table.

The best way to avoid septic tank problems attributed to hair is to prevent it from getting into the system in the first place. Use strainers and filters in sink and tub drains; People lose hair and skin all the time. Preventing any of this from getting into the system will only decrease the chances that you will have problems. Buy an Aero-Stream waste water filter. These filters do a great job of collecting hair to keep it from clogging the drain field.

Most of us don’t care much about what happens after you flush the toilet or where all the flush water goes, but if you’re in a septic tank, you should pay closer attention, as unlike a city sewer, it can back to haunt you.

To help you protect your home, I’ve compiled a list of the most common mistakes homeowners make when it comes to abusing their septic tank. Avoid these like the plague or be prepared to (literally) suffer the consequences.

1. Rinsing of paper products

Not everything made of paper is suitable for flushing the toilet. Any paper product like tissues, paper towels, tampons, or personal hygiene products, even slightly heavier toilet paper, will clog your system if you flush enough of it.

Wet wipes are another product that you should never flush down a septic system. Even the “flushable” wipes have been shown to not break down as they should and cause major problems. So with any wet wipe, it’s probably a better idea to just toss it in the trash instead.

Keep the paper products you flush down your toilet simple. Toilet paper really is the only thing that should go down the drain. Everything else goes in the trash.

2. Pour fat down the drain

You might think that while fat is still hot it’s perfectly fine to pour it down the kitchen sink or flush it down the toilet. That’s wrong folks. Fat is one of the worst things for your septic system.

As soon as it cools, it solidifies and immediately clogs the pipes. It’s like the arteries in your heart – when you eat greasy food, they get clogged. Clogged drains equate to flooding, which means lots and lots of money.

The best way to deal with fat is to let it cool and solidify, then scrape it into a container or sealable bag that can be thrown away. Dispose of cooking oil by placing it in a resealable bag and taking it to a restaurant if possible, or throwing the bag in the trash as well.

3. Use too much drain cleaner

Drain cleaner is meant to go down the drain, so pouring a little more down the sink works even better. That sounds logical, doesn’t it? Not correct. Pouring large amounts of harsh chemicals or drain cleaners down your sink or toilet is terrible for your pipes and plumbing system.

First, hazardous chemicals corrode your plumbing. Second, they kill the good bacteria in your tank that digest and break down waste to keep your system working properly.

Use drain cleaner only as needed and as directed to clear clogs. As my grandmother used to say, “Too much of anything is not good.”

4. Introduction of additives into your system

Ever seen those commercials for an enzyme supplement for your septic tank? Natural enzymes are said to help break down waste, making your system more efficient and improving its function. Don’t fall for this crap – septic tank additives can actually do more harm than good.

The enzymes break down solids too much, and the smaller particles float up and then seep into your drain field and clog it. It is not recommended to introduce any additives or chemicals into your septic system.

The solution? Do nothing. Of course, let your tank perform the way it was designed.

5. Rinsing cat litter

You may think kitty litter is safe to flush because it contains waste. That’s not true, and many people still flush it down and wreck their septic system.

Kitty litter can be very damaging to plumbing, and when flushed it can cause a nasty clog. Cat litter is usually clay based and passing it through your pipes or, more importantly, into your septic tank can cause problems because unlike waste, clay doesn’t break down. It just builds up in your tank and causes problems.

The best solution is to keep the waste off your plumbing and dispose of it in the trash.

6. Neglecting to pump your tank regularly

Another surefire way to ruin your septic tank is if you never pumped it. This is a disadvantage of a septic system compared to a municipal water connection. Tanks only hold a limited amount of waste and need to be emptied every 3 or 5 years, even more often if you use your system heavily.

If you don’t eventually empty your tank, it will back up and overflow into your home via your plumbing fixtures. Nobody wants to deal with this mess!

The solution is to empty your tank regularly and check for things like slow or clogged drains, a damp drain field in your yard, or a bad indoor smell.

7. Plant trees and shrubs on your runoff field

Many homeowners love the look of trees in their gardens. It offers some privacy, and a quaint lawn with manicured trees and shrubs adds appeal to an older or period home. However, planting them directly on top of your sewage system (aka drain field) can cause significant and expensive problems later.

Once these stately trees and shrubs start digging their roots deeper and deeper into the ground, they can enter a drainage field with their constricting roots. Tree roots are surprisingly tough, even having the strength to break cleanly through the pipes. When this happens, they can grow right in the way of your drainpipes, blocking the flow of sewage.

The moral of the story is to know where exactly your drain field and septic tank are and avoid large plantings in that area.

8. Lint overload of the washing machine

You might think that washing your clothes doesn’t stress your septic system; However, if you wash a lot of synthetic clothes, the lint and fibers in the dirty wash water end up in your septic tank.

The good bacteria and enzymes that work so hard to break down solids can’t digest the synthetic fibers and eventually overload the system, causing expensive repairs.

One solution is to install a lint filter on the drain of your washing machine. Family Handyman has a great tutorial on how to install one for yourself.

9. Installation of a garbage disposal

If you have a septic tank with a tank, it is not recommended to install a garbage disposal system in your home. Even though they grind the food into small particles, all of the food in your tank will settle to the bottom, causing solids to build up faster than the bacteria can break them down.

If you have a disposal, pay special attention to what goes down in it. Even if you’re careful, there’s a chance non-food items will still end up in it, which is why it’s better to dispose of food waste somewhere other than down the drain.

A solution to food waste would be composting, which you can later use in your garden. It’s a win-win situation.

Sewage systems require special care and maintenance to function properly. Taking care of your septic system is important to keep your home running smoothly.

Take good care of your septic tank and it will last for a year with minimal maintenance. If you abuse it, it becomes an expensive headache over the years.

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If you want to “feed” your septic tank with meat, buttermilk, yeast, vegetables, beer, etc., don’t flush them down the drain. As a result, your septic system becomes contaminated with bad bacteria.

Is alcohol bad for septic systems? Never pour more than two bottles of alcohol down the drain in a week when you need to get rid of alcohol. thrown away. Flushing toilet paper for septic systems is the best idea as it is specifically designed for a septic system.

Is brewer’s yeast good for septic tanks? The caustic lines of your septic tank can be kept flowing once a month with the help of brewer’s yeast. Your septic system stays active when you do this. The use of aggressive chemicals is not required.

What is bad for septic tanks? Cigarette butts should not be washed down the septic tank with anything non-biodegradable. Diapers that can be disposed of after use. The paper towel. plastics.

What can you put in a septic tank to break down solids? Wastewater treatment plants can benefit from the active breakdown of waste solids caused by yeast. If you flush 1 2 cups of dry baker’s yeast down the toilet, do it the first time. After that, add 1 1/4 cups of instant yeast every four months.

Can you pour beer into a septic tank? Never pour more than two bottles of alcohol down the drain in a week when you need to get rid of alcohol. thrown away. It dissolves faster, leaving septic drains clean with septic-friendly toilet paper.

What not to flush if you have a septic tank? A litter box for cats. The coffee grounds. It’s a cigarette butt. The dental floss for your teeth. Diapers that can be disposed of after use. Ear plug. Towels or tampons that are hygienic.

How can I naturally multiply bacteria in my septic tank? To make this homemade septic tank treatment, you need four ingredients: water, sugar, cornmeal, and dry yeast. All that is needed is half a gallon of water that has been boiled. If you add 2 cups of sugar it will be sweet. Sugar is our bacteria eat!

How do I multiply bacteria in my septic tank? The company that pumps out your septic tank can advise you on the best product… You can add good bacteria to a septic tank by using Rid-X. You should flush a packet of brewer’s yeast down the downstairs toilet of your house once a month.

What will ruin a septic system? It’s possible that latex is also clogging your septic tank’s drain field if your outlet tee is missing. A clogged pump impeller or a burned septic tank motor can also be caused by latex. The degree of damage to the organisms in your aquarium increases when you use substances such as motor oil, paint, varnish and floor wax.

What should not go in a sewage system? The butts of cigarettes. Discarded diapers. Tanning Lotion & Sanitary Pads. towels for hands. Toilet scrub sticks that pop off. Garbage. condoms. Hair.

Is it okay to pour alcohol down the drain? It won’t hurt your septic system if you dump two or three bottles down the drain. If you must drink more alcohol, wait several weeks before doing so. Dumping more alcohol down the drain is not harmful to your public sewage system or the environment if you are connected to it.

Can I put too much yeast in my septic tank? Overuse of baker’s yeast is also harmful as it increases the likelihood of yeast growing in your system. A professional septic tank treatment additive like yeast can help a little with breaking down waste and sludge, but nothing can replace it when it comes to keeping your system clean and ready to go.

Does Beer Help Your Septic System? If you want to “feed” your septic tank with meat, buttermilk, yeast, vegetables, beer, etc., don’t flush them down the drain. As a result, your septic system becomes contaminated with bad bacteria. If you can’t open the drain with a snake, use a bacterial enzyme drain opener.

How to mix yeast for a septic tank? Septic Tank Care recommends adding 3 cups of warm water, 2 cups of sugar, 2 cups of cornmeal, and 2 packets of yeast to a large bucket, then pouring them down a toilet and flushing twice.

What things are bad for septic tanks? Diapers that can be disposed of after use. Towels or tampons that are hygienic. The towel or bandage is made of paper. The dental floss for your teeth. condoms. Hair. It’s a cigarette butt. The coffee grounds.

Can septic tanks cause problems? The septic tank and its septic tank will eventually have problems. Problems like this usually occur after heavy rains, when the septic tank is full, when sewage leaks out of the septic tank, or when pipes are clogged. A septic tank problem like this is common.

Are solids broken down in a septic tank? An effective solution to a clogged septic system The solids are broken down by microorganisms as soon as they reach the bottom of the tank. It floats to the top because it’s made of debris that’s lighter than water. leaves the tank and is directed to the drainage field through perforated underground pipes.

How long does it take for solids to break down in a septic tank? As soon as RID-X® comes into contact with water, it begins to work. Once the bacteria germinate, they begin to break down solid waste. If the temperature and conditions are favorable, the bacteria will multiply to the maximum possible level within 2-4 days, depending on the environment.

What happens to the solids in a septic tank? A layer of sludge forms on the bottom of the pond because there are much heavier particles than water. During wastewater treatment, bacteria break down solid waste inside the tank. These bacteria quickly break down the solid waste, allowing for more efficient liquid separation and drainage.

Will dish soap damage my septic system?

Many homeowners consider a septic tank an unsanitary necessity. In reality, it’s a sophisticated system that uses a delicate balance of enzymes and bacteria to safely break down household waste. These microbes treat all the wastewater that comes out of your home. As long as you have enough bacterial activity in your septic system, it will be a functioning waste processor.

What is a septic system?

A septic system consists not only of the main sewer line and a tank, but also the drain lines of all fixtures and fittings in your home, including your sinks, toilets, tubs, and showers. The runoff field or leachate field is also an essential part of your septic tank.

All components namely drains, pipes, septic tank, microbial contents of the tank and drain field work closely together to safely dispose of waste.

Your septic system requires extensive care and maintenance to ensure it is always in good working order. You need to take care of your drain field, be careful what you flush or pour down your drains, and use water efficiently.

Bacteria reduction or elimination

Most dish soap products are antibacterial. In theory, if these products get into your septic tank system, they can kill the microbes that break down the waste.

There are many different detergent products. Typically, the type of dish soap that creates suds when you stir the water once in the sink has very little antibacterial content; it is too diluted to affect bacterial levels in a septic tank.

Dishwashing detergents, on the other hand, can impair the function of your sewage treatment plant. These detergents do not foam in a dishwasher. Manufacturers add phosphates or nonylphenol ethoxylate surfactants to make these products more effective at removing dirt and grime from dishes.

The combination of high pressure water, high temperatures and the surfactants in the soap will clean the contents of the dishwasher and kill any bacteria on the surfaces. However, when these compounds get into your septic tank, they can kill enough bacteria and enzymes to damage your septic system.

blockage formation

Powdered dishwashing detergents can not only affect the microbial levels of your septic tank, they can also create clogs in your septic tank. These products usually contain sodium and fillers that don’t dissolve in water, and if they get into your sewage system, they can settle in pipes where over time they will build up and form a clog.

soil and water pollution

The outflow from a working septic tank should be clean, nutrient-rich water. However, if soaps containing phosphate get into your septic system, they can eventually leak to your septic drain field, which is also part of your septic system.

The result is soil and surrounding water contamination that can kill plants and animals. Detergent contamination can also cause algal blooms in the area.

Contact Front Range Septic

Dish soaps can do serious damage to your septic system.

If your septic tank has a build up of flushing liquid, contact Front Range Septic for a professional septic tank pump service.

I do not know where to start. The information shared is interesting. I love that so many want to help, but some of the information is pretty inaccurate. Many say you don’t need to pump your tank. Yes, they do! Think of your septic system like other things, if you take care of it, you will get more life out of it. If you don’t, it will die sooner. We own a septic company and deal with this type of misinformation on a daily basis. The long showers bring more water into your field, which can overload your field and allow excess water/sewage to surface. Someone mentioned above that it’s probably harder for you, I would agree. If you live lonely and don’t use a lot of water, you probably aren’t doing too much harm to the septic system. If wet patches are cropping up in your yard, I would try to reduce water usage before hiring anyone to check for a costly problem. Now….back to pumping. The reason you pump your septic tanks is to get the sludge out. It is recommended to pump your tanks when the sludge level reaches 30% because once the sludge exceeds 30% it is more likely to work its way into your field which will clog over time. Those who haven’t pumped in 25+ years…at this point, just wait and see what happens. Most likely you will need to install a new field or system at some point. In any case, it will be very expensive. If your field lines are clogged, you may be able to spray the lines with a water jet. This is simply a high pressure water jet to clean the lines. In our area, that’s about a $2000-$3000 job. There are no guarantees for these jobs, but they work in many cases. If you’re past considering a new field or a whole new system, in our area it would have to be a mechanical one, as a yard typically can’t accommodate another conventional gravity-fed system, and these start at around US$15,000 -Dollar. The average family reaches the 30% mud mark between 1-3 years, depending on the size of the pool, number of people and usage. The enzymes that some people are trying to sell you don’t really help but give people peace of mind. Studies have shown that they don’t speed up the bacteria, and Mother Nature is pretty amazing all on her own. There are two types of enzymes, liquid or pellets. The solid ones can stick together and wreak havoc. So if you want to flush your money down the toilet, be sure to use liquid. Remember, you don’t need to inflate your tank. You also don’t have to have an oil change done on your car. But both will eventually stop working due to lack of maintenance.

Septic System Do’s

Spread laundry out over the week instead of loads in one day.

Keep a permanent record of where the major parts of your septic system are located for future maintenance (such as septic tank pump service or on-site repairs).

Do you have a septic pump service

Maintain records of septic pump service and septic system maintenance.

Whenever possible, use water-saving devices such as low-flush toilets and low-flow showerheads.

Clean the lint filter in your washing machine regularly.

Check pumps, siphons or other moving parts of your system regularly.

Remove or prevent trees with large root systems from growing near the leaching field.

Keep surface water from slope or roof drains away from the leach field.

Check your Interceptor drain regularly to make sure it’s flowing freely.

Regularly run water in infrequently used drains such as sinks, tubs, showers, etc. to avoid harmful gases from building up and causing indoor odors.

Acceptable Products

Detergents – should be liquid, concentrated, low-sudsing, low-phosphate or phosphate-free, and biodegradable.

Toilet paper – should be single ply toilet paper as it will degrade faster and better in the septic tank than higher ply toilet paper. Use toilet paper that is labeled biodegradable, recycled, or septic-safe.

Detergents – should be non-chlorine, non-ammonia, non-antibacterial, non-toxic and biodegradable detergents. Most all-natural cleaning products are septic safe.

Septic system don’ts

Do not overload the septic tank with large volumes of water.

Do not connect basement sump pumps to your septic tank.

Do not connect backwash water treatment equipment directly to your treatment system without professional advice.

Do not use garbage disposal. Chopped food debris won’t break down in the septic tank and can get into your septic tank lines and cause clogs.

Do not allow large amounts of fats, chemicals or solvents to get into the septic tank; and don’t let any plastic get in.

Do not enter a septic tank without proper ventilation as sewage gases can be fatal. Entering confined spaces also requires, among other things, the presence of a second person for days.

Do not allow vehicles or heavy equipment to drive or park on the leach field. This can compact the ground and crush the plumbing.

Do not plant anything above the leach field except grass. In particular, do not cover the septic tank or leachate field with asphalt or concrete or any other impervious material.

Do not run a separate pipe to send wash water to a ditch or forest. This “grey water” also contains disease-carrying organisms.

Most importantly, don’t wait for signs of system failure. Check your septic system regularly.

Do not flush

The best thing you can do for your septic system is make sure you’re flushing nothing but human waste and toilet paper, preferably single-ply toilet paper.

Even if items are labeled “Septic Safe,” do not rinse them. For example, some baby wipes and kitty litter may be labeled in this way. Flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper is not good for your septic system as it will not be broken down properly in the septic system.

No flush list

Backwash water from water softeners

cigarettes

Cloth

coffee grounds

condoms

dental floss

disinfectant

disposable diapers

fats, fats and oils

cat litter

Other chemical waste

Colours

paper towels

pesticides

Photographic Chemicals

Pills and unused medicines

plastic materials

poisons

sanitary napkins

Sump pump drain

tampons

thinner

tissue

paints

waste oils

smells

Odors coming from outside the home can be an indication that your septic system is overflowing and you need septic pump service. A vent pipe can also be installed to release odors from the septic system.

If drains are not used, sometimes harmful gases can build up and cause odors. For example, if you have a shower in the house that gets little use, you may find that an odor sometimes comes from that area. Run water down these drains regularly to keep odors at bay.

Slow drains

Slow draining can be a sign that your tank needs pumping or that you need bacterial supplements to help break down any solids that have built up. If you are experiencing slow drains, contact us for troubleshooting help.

garbage disposal

Garbage disposal is not recommended at a sewage treatment plant. Shredded food waste from garbage disposal goes into the tank and doesn’t fully biodegrade before it can get into your caustic field lines. These lines can then become clogged with food and cause a jam.

filter

Filters are placed on the outlet line of your septic tank and prevent hair, sand, dirt and food debris from getting into your leachate field lines and causing problems. A filter is a great way to keep unwanted debris from becoming a problem.

For more information on your septic system, check out our complete guide to your septic system!

In America, the average person uses one hundred rolls of toilet paper a year; We literally flush our money down the toilet.

Fortunately, we are also becoming more aware that the use of paper has serious detrimental effects on the planet. In previous posts I have addressed the question, is paper biodegradable?

But…

Is all toilet paper biodegradable? And what is the impact of toilet paper on the world?

Is toilet paper biodegradable?

Yes, all toilet paper is biodegradable as it is made from the same natural materials as paper-like pulp. But biodegradable toilet paper is different because it dissolves faster, which of course also makes it septic safe.

At first I thought biodegradable toilet paper was just there to market their toilet paper and make it more expensive. But after some research I found out that this was not the case at all.

Biodegradable toilet paper might be a more expensive option. But it breaks down four times faster and uses far less water than traditional bath towels.

The differences don’t stop there.

Standard bath towels are made from virgin trees with a blend of 70% hardwood and 30% softwood.

While biodegradable toilet paper is made from more sustainable sources:

Sugarcane Paper – Made from bagasse, a by-product left over from sugar production. With sugar in such high demand, it’s unlikely it will ever run out. Another nice thing is that it reduces the excess waste left behind in sugar production.

Bamboo Paper – Bamboo grows in abundance around the world in varying conditions. This is a rising star who not only lives in a plastic-free world but is also going paperless. To complete the benefits, it also has antibacterial properties so there is no need to add any chemicals.

Hemp – It’s one of the most versatile plants in the world but still gets a bad rap due to its use with marijuana. Because hemp is plentiful in most US states, it’s a very viable solution to deforestation problems.

Kenaf – Is a ridiculously fast growing plant. Research has shown that one hectare of kenaf could produce fifteen tons of paper friendly materials. That’s an insane amount of paper for such a small area.

So is tissue paper biodegradable?

Yes, it’s just that biodegradable toilet paper is way more effective than others.

The best is:

This not only saves water, but is also more environmentally friendly.

How long does it take for toilet paper to decompose?

It may not be as quick and efficient as you think, remember how often toilet paper clogs septic systems.

In most cases it can only last a month, perfect right?

Well, under the wrong conditions, it can take anywhere from one to three years to fully decompose. It’s crazy to think that small sheets of paper could take that long to decompose.

But as I said, it all depends on various factors:

The thickness of the fabric

The thickness of the tissue How much water is available

How much water is available? The weather conditions to which it is exposed

As I mentioned earlier, biodegradable paper products are all designed to degrade faster than your regular soft toilet paper rolls.

Though all toilet paper degrades, there’s a more pressing question we need to answer:

What impact does toilet paper have on our environment?

Using toilet paper harms our planet, but most people tend not to think about it. At least it may have crossed your mind.

I mentioned earlier that the average American uses about a hundred rolls a year, when you multiply that by the number of people in the US, that’s a lot of toilet paper!

And if we remember what it is made of, then many trees are felled!

We are already facing deforestation problems. And with National Geographic claiming that nearly 27,000 trees are flushed down the toilet every day, things don’t seem to get any better.

The worst is:

Most of the wood used to make toilet paper comes from virgin forests to make fresh, soft pulp. Which is then made into paper after being pumped with chemicals.

The chemicals used to make toilet paper then rot in our septic tank or make their way to a water treatment center.

You might think that water treatment centers can remove all chemicals, but that’s not the case.

How do we become more environmentally friendly?

As a customer, you must remain united; Using an item that is biodegradable may seem like it doesn’t make a difference, but it does.

Any item that we can reuse or that reduces the environmental impact that we created as humans is a great cause and must continue.

Now you might be thinking, why don’t we use recycled paper to make toilet paper?

And it’s a good question, but unfortunately the customer speaks more than the environmental impact.

The recycled paper is not soft enough for consumers, making recycled toilet paper rolls less desirable.

What is the best biodegradable toilet paper?

For me it has to be Coleman toilet paper, not only is it super soft…

…but it breaks down quickly with very little water.

44 Reviews Coleman Company Biodegradable Storage Toilet Paper 4-Pack Eco-friendly paper, contains no dyes, no fragrances

Camping toilet paper dissolves quickly and reduces clogs

Four toilet paper rolls per pack

They also have a good range of products such as Coleman organic wipes.

If, like me, you love the great outdoors, you’ll understand how hard it is to get a shower.

These little wipes are easy to carry and of course make you feel clean when you need it.

The best piece:

They are completely biodegradable and leave no trace!

So, yes, toilet paper does degrade, although it can take varying amounts of time to fully degrade. But it doesn’t come without its own problems.

Our only option is to switch to a more sustainable source. If you are looking for good sustainability blogs check out some of these sites.

If you have any questions, please comment below so we can answer your burning questions. Or if you like what you read, don’t forget to click the share button.

The more people get active, the better the world gets!

If you have a septic system, you need to be careful about the items you put down the drain. Some items placed down the drain can kill good bacteria in your tank, can cause clogs, or not dissolve or decompose, causing your tank to fill up. All of these things can result in you having to spend more to service or repair your tank. However, if you’ve never lived in a home with a septic system, you may not be sure what you can and can’t put down your drain. Here are some of the things you should never put down a sink drain if you have a septic system.

Antibacterial soap

Antibacterial hand soap and gels are popular. However, if you have a septic system, you should never wash your hands with these products. The soap and gels contain enzymes that kill bacteria. When flushed down the drain, they kill the bacteria present in your tank responsible for breaking down waste and inhibit the growth of good bacteria and enzymes in the future.

food particles

It’s very common for leftovers to end up on plates or fruit and vegetable bowls in your kitchen sink. However, if you have a septic tank, you want to avoid shipping leftover food whenever possible. Try scraping your plates over the garbage can before washing them and peel all fruits and veggies over a garbage can. Many types of food particles cannot be broken down in your septic tank, while others are slow to break down. Avoid sending these items down the drain to avoid clogging and to ensure your tank doesn’t get too full.

toothpaste

Believe it or not, certain brands of toothpaste can actually damage your septic system. If possible, look for a natural toothpaste or a baking soda-based toothpaste. If this is not possible, always avoid pastes containing polyethylene. These are typically present as small scrub beads or bubbles in the toothpaste. But it’s a type of plastic that doesn’t break down in your system. When brushing your teeth, try to use toothpastes and mouthwashes labeled as safe for a septic system.

If you own a septic tank it is important to be careful with the items you place down a drain in your home as they all lead to the septic tank. Placing items that you shouldn’t place down there can cost you money in the long run.

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Does shaving in the shower clog the drain? While you might want to attribute shower drain clogs to longer hair off your female family member’s heads, single men might know better. The truth is that shaving in the shower can also cause constipation, even though the hair on your face or legs is much shorter than the hair on your head.

Why does shaving clog the drain?

Unfortunately, for many plumbing systems, hair is the perfect material to make a clog worse. It’s not water soluble, and even strong drain cleaners don’t dissolve it well (which is just one of the many reasons you shouldn’t use these chemicals).

Smaller and longer hair can become a tangled mat in the drain. They are particularly prone to sticking together because they attract and hold on to oils. The oils that go into your shower usually come from your body and cleansing products. For this reason, it’s a good idea not to pour oily products, like kitchen oils, down the shower drain. Hair and oil are a bad combination.

While your constipation may have been triggered by soap scum, hard water, or longer hair, shaving in the shower will make it much worse. The small hairs work their way directly into the existing blockage.

Avoid clogging the shower drain

If you’re already shaving in your shower, chances are you’re always at risk of causing a clog. That’s okay — you don’t have to stop shaving in your shower to avoid a clog. Just install a drain strainer to catch the hair for you before it goes down the drain. You’ll need to clean it after use, but that’s a lot less messy than dealing with a clog.

When you make the switch to your sink, be sure to protect it from clogs as well. If you shave at the sink, you can even use a towel, newspaper, or other volatile solution to catch the hair. Or you can buy drain strainers that also fit these drains.

What to do if your shower drain is clogged with hair?

So your shower has started draining slowly or not at all after you shave in it, your hair probably contributed to the clog. In this case, using drain chemicals will not be effective. Harsh chemicals have a hard time dissolving hair. If they’re strong enough to dissolve hair, they can also damage your tubes, which can lead to more serious problems.

The use of chemicals is a lose-lose situation. If they don’t work, harsh chemicals will be sitting in your drain, making the drain a safety hazard. You should avoid the fumes from the drain and definitely not put anything down it. These chemicals also make your plumber’s job a lot harder.

Instead of eventually pouring it down the drain, call your plumber. You will choose the right solution for your constipation problem. This usually involves using a pipe coil or vacuum to remove all traces of the clog so you don’t have to go through it again. In some cases, they may also choose to do a sewer camera inspection to make sure there aren’t other issues compounding the clog.

We’re not a statewide plumbing service, but if you’re in Danville, Lafayette, Martinez or anywhere in Contra Costa County, you’re in luck! Just give us a call or contact us to get started.

Clogged shower drains are a common plumbing problem that homeowners have to deal with at some point. Frequent clogs are annoying, cause inconvenience and damage the home’s plumbing system. Clearing a clogged, sluggish drain is a hassle when you’re late for the office in the morning or enjoying a relaxing shower after a long and hectic day at work. The sight of dirty soapy water down the drain is a nightmare. Hair is the main culprit preventing water from flowing freely through the pipes and eventually forming serious clogs. Most people find it impossible to keep their hair from going down the drain while showering, and using chemical drain cleaners to clear clogs only makes the situation worse.

However, there are a few things homeowners can do to prevent hair clogs in the shower drain. First, let’s look at how hair causes clogs and what steps are needed to clear the clogged shower drain.

How hair clogs the shower drain

During the shower, several strands of hair slip down the drain and cannot get into the sewage system. Over time, the continuous accumulation of hair creates a large clumping mixed with soap scum and other debris, causing the water to move slowly. It makes the drains less and less functional over time, eventually causing the shower drain to back up due to the stubborn clog.

This will prevent hair from clogging the shower drain

Here are a few steps homeowners can take to minimize the chance of hair running down the shower drain and causing clogs:

Cover the drains

Over-the-top mesh strainers, or other hair catchers, are small, efficient, and widely used devices that fit directly onto the drain and catch hair, soap scum, and other debris and prevent it from entering the pipes. They are a reliable and economical solution to prevent clogging. Place a screen over every bathtub, sink and shower drain. To clean it, empty it into the trash can after every shower or regularly and then put it back in its place.

Brush your hair before showering

Brushing your hair before showering helps remove loose, weak, and dead strands of hair that might otherwise end up down the shower drain. If there are clumps of hair near the drain after shampooing, collect them and throw them in the trash can in the middle of the shower.

Flush the drains regularly

Flushing all drains at once is effective in preventing clogged hair. It requires closing all shower drains, bathtubs and sink drains and filling them with warm water. Have family members stand next to different drains and make sure the drains are open and the toilets are flushed at the same time.

How do I remove hair clogs from shower drains?

Even after applying various prevention methods, drains can still be clogged. Homeowners can clear minor clogs with the following DIY methods:

Use a plunger to remove the hair and other debris stuck in the shower drain.

Instead of using harsh chemical cleaners, pour in boiling water or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar and let sit for half an hour before pouring in boiling water.

Leave a cup of bleach down the drain overnight and run warm water in the morning.

If these tips prove ineffective, consult a local plumber to unclog your shower drain.

Royalty Plumbing provides quality residential plumbing services in the Las Vegas, Henderson, North Las Vegas and Summerlin areas. Call (702) 745-7909 today!

If there’s one type of constipation that almost everyone deals with at some point, it’s hair constipation. Even if you use a drain plug, hair can still collect in your lines over time and create ugly clumps that drastically slow your flow. The good news is that you don’t have to stop shaving or take other drastic measures to avoid this problem. If you’re dealing with a hair clog in your tub, shower or sink drain, there are a few simple steps you can take to clear that gross clog and help your drain flow freely again. Read on for our top five ways to remove hair from your drains, and remember Smith’s Plumbing Services is your solution for all your essential plumbing jobs.

5 steps to take when dealing with clogged hair

Use Baking Soda and Vinegar Before You Blow It: Baking soda and vinegar can be an extremely effective way to clear many clogs, and hair clogs are no exception. For best results, start by squirting a little dish soap down your drain, followed by a cup of vinegar and a cup of baking soda. Wait about five minutes for the chemical reaction of the vinegar and baking soda to kick in, then follow it up with a cup or more of boiling water. This should effectively clear most of the hair clog, but you should still use a cup plunger on your drain to get rid of any hair that’s left behind. Be sure to specifically use a cup or “flat” plunger and if the clog is still there, repeat as needed. Pull it out with tweezers: Unlike thicker clogs, the stringy nature of hair can sometimes make it difficult to squeeze out. If you’ve tried removing a hairy obstruction by plunging it out of your drain but just can’t get rid of it completely, you may need to try pulling it out with tweezers instead. First you need to remove your drain plug if you have one. In some cases you may have to do this manually, although you may also need a screwdriver depending on the type of drain you have (while you’re at it, you can also remove any accumulated hair from the plug). After that, take a flashlight and shine it down your drain so you can get a better look at the clog in question. From there you should be able to use your needle nose pliers to pull out that awkward clump of hair. You may want to wear gloves during this process as pulling hair out can get quite uncomfortable, and you should also run some hot water down the drain after you’re done just to rinse out any hairs that come up. Buy a snake device: If melting your hair clog with baking soda and vinegar, dipping and removing with tweezers still isn’t enough, you may be able to break up that clog with a snake device. What kind of snake are you asking? Any number of options may be due depending on the severity of your constipation. In less severe cases, straightening a wire hanger and sticking it down the drain may actually be enough to unclog a clog. Other times, you might want to buy a Zip-it tool. These plastic drain cleaners are cheap, disposable, easy to use, and widely available on the internet. There are also a number of other drain snake devices that you can purchase at your local hardware store or online, all of which are designed for different sized clogs. Snaking your drain should effectively unclog any clogs and help scrape the walls of your line clean, but you can also use the baking soda and vinegar technique above, or at least flush your drain with hot water just to be sure the clog is clear is completely gone. Clear All Your Drains: The last home remedy to get rid of a hair clog is also the most intense. If a clog still persists after trying all of the above methods, you can completely remove your drain and try to clear it that way. In the case of your sink drain, unscrew the siphon (the p-shaped drain pipe under the sink used to vent sewer gases) and place a bucket under it for any leaking water. In the meantime, to take the drain out of your shower/bath you will need a socket wrench, a tool specifically designed to fit the crossbars of your drain so you can easily pry it out. Again, you should use rubber gloves every time you’re removing a drain, as it’s a pretty unsanitary job. If this all seems too complicated for you, or you don’t feel comfortable doing so much plumbing work yourself, you can also… Request Professional Drain Cleaning: Although dealing with a hair clog can be difficult when all else fails, you can call our professional Call plumber at Smith’s Plumbing Services for drain cleaning. With our drain cleaning tools and technology, we can unclog hair, soap scum, grease, food, toilet paper and a range of other difficult-to-remove items. Remember, whatever you do, avoid using liquid drain cleaners. Not only do these products tend to be ineffective, often sitting on a clog rather than eating through it, but they also contain toxic chemicals that eat away at your pipes. Try one of our DIY drain cleaning methods instead, or call Smith’s anytime for service – we’re even available 24/7 for emergencies!

To schedule a drain cleaning appointment now, call (901) 290-1110. You can also send us a message online.

Toilets are a modern convenience that takes care of human waste, but they’re not so good at disposing of other items. Flushing certain household products instead of throwing them in the trash can clog drains, contaminate water systems, or even cause environmental damage. According to public utility company American Water, your pipes are only 4 inches in diameter at their widest point, which means even small, seemingly harmless items can cause big problems with the plumbing. Hiring a professional to fix your clogged drain can cost hundreds of dollars, not to mention the cost of repairing water damage caused by an overflowing toilet. Avoid a plumbing emergency (and a costly bill) with these tips on what can and can’t go down the drain.

Witthaya Prasongsin/Getty Images

1. “Flushable” wipes

Although the packaging may say otherwise, American Water says flushable wipes shouldn’t go down the toilet. Because these wipes don’t break down quickly, they can easily get stuck in drains and cause clogs. Keep a lined trash can in your bathroom and dispose of wipes there instead.

2. Paper towels and tissues

If you’ve run out of toilet paper, paper towels and facial tissues aren’t viable substitutes (at least not for your drain). These paper products are designed to absorb water and not dissolve in it like toilet paper, making them more likely to clog your pipes, according to Chicago-based J. Blanton Plumbing. Always dispose of paper towels and tissues in the trash, not down the toilet.

3. Too much toilet paper

Not only is it wasteful, but using too much toilet paper can create major plumbing problems. Large bundles of toilet paper are difficult to flush and can easily clog small pipes. To avoid problems with the toilet, use only what you need the next time you go to the toilet.

4. Cotton balls, rounds or swabs

Although cotton balls, balls, and swabs may seem small enough to flush, they can cause big problems in your pipes. When rinsed, these cotton products do not decompose in water; Instead, they tend to accumulate in pipelines. According to O’Leary Plumbing in Wisconsin, this can cause clogs and even bent or broken pipes.

5. Women’s Products

Tampons, sanitary napkins, and other feminine products are designed to absorb liquid and, in some cases, expand to many times their original size. According to Robin’s Plumbing of Phoenix, when flushed with water, these products can swell and block pipes leading to sewers or septic tanks, causing toilet water to back up and overflow. To be on the safe side, always dispose of women’s products in the trash.

6. Dental floss

Dental floss is usually made of nylon or teflon, does not break down easily in water and can accumulate over time if rinsed. According to American Water, the floss can wrap around other items that are rinsed afterwards, creating even larger clumps that can clog drains and pipes. Throw your floss in the trash after practicing good dental hygiene.

7. Hair

Similar to dental floss, sending hair down the drain can cause bigger problems later, experts at American Water note. Hair tends to stick to the inside of pipes, causing buildup and clogging over time. Don’t flush large clumps of hair down the toilet and use drain covers to protect your shower and sink drains.

8. Bandages

Some bandages are made of non-biodegradable plastic that can contaminate water systems when flushed down the toilet. The sticky adhesive can also stick to other items, causing a larger clog. Avoid these problems by disposing of bandages in a trash can.

9. Drugs and other hazardous materials

To avoid water pollution, never flush medications or potentially hazardous household materials (such as paint and some cleaning products, including stove, window, and tile cleaners) down the toilet. According to the Food and Drug Administration, the best way to dispose of unused or expired medications is to drop them off at a drug collection facility. For household hazardous waste, the Environmental Protection Agency suggests locating a collection program in your community that can help you safely recycle or dispose of the materials.

10. Cigarette butts

Cigarettes are another waste item that can introduce potentially harmful chemicals into the water system and harm wildlife, researchers at Bishop’s Plumbing in Illinois note. Also, cigarette butts don’t always go down the drain after flushing, leaving an unpleasant surprise for the next person using the bathroom. After safely extinguishing them, dispose of cigarettes in the trash.

11. Fats, oils or fats

As a general rule, you shouldn’t flush food down the toilet, but fats, oils, and greases can be particularly problematic for drains. Although these ingredients may start out in liquid form, according to American Water, they can solidify and attach to the inner lining of your pipes. This can prevent other objects from passing and cause a blockage. After cooking, allow fats, oils and fats to cool completely and solidify before throwing the leftovers in the trash.

12. Cat litter

Unlike the human species, cat feces should never go down the toilet, according to experts at FloHawks Plumbing. Flushing kitty litter or waste down the toilet can introduce potentially harmful parasites into the water supply, while the litter can absorb water and clog pipes. Always pack up cat litter and waste and dispose of it with household waste.

It’s important to remember that a toilet is not a substitute for your trash can. Protect your plumbing by following these guidelines and when in doubt, toss it in your trash instead of flushing it.