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The Truth About Tampons and Septic Tanks

Tampons and Septic Tanks

Septic tanks are designed to break down organic material by using anaerobic bacteria. However, they can be disturbed by non-biodegradable items, including tampons. 

You may be wondering, how many tampons would clog a septic tank. Well, the truth is it’s not about the exact number but about the cumulative effect of the product. 

Flushing items like tampons can raise significant issues for the septic system.  These issues can even cause a catastrophic system failure. So, it is advised not to flush the female sanitary products down the toilet. Unless you are using biodegradable cotton tampons. Still, they should be avoided.

Understand How the Septic System Works

A septic system mainly consists of a tank and a drain field. Waste water from the house flows into the tank where solids aka sludge settle in the bottom. While oil, grease, and other lighter products float at the top.

You can learn about its working in detail from our detailed guide on “What’s inside a septic tank“.

Anyways, the system of a septic tank relies on bacteria to break down organic matter. But materials like tampons are often synthetic and non-biodegradable, so they can’t be decomposed. This disrupts the balance of the system and can lead to serious issues.

How Tampons are Problematic for Septic Tanks

Tampons and septic systems can’t be together. Tampons are designed to be absorbent and durable which makes them unsuitable for septic systems. 

Wondering why? Here are a few reasons:

  • Non-biodegradable Nature

Tampons are made of materials like rayon and other synthetic fibers that do not break down easily. Companies claim that their tampons are made from 100% cotton so they are flushable and but that’s utter bullshit. 

Even if they can be decomposed, they take so long which makes them unsuitable to be in the septic system. Moreover, as they don’t decompose, they stay in the tank and can cause clogs in sewer drain lines

  • Absorbency 

Tampons expand when they come in contact with water or any other liquid. So, the concern or clogs increases considerably. This swelling of tampons can cause them to stuck in pipes or the septic tank causing serious clogging issues. 

  • Clumping 

Multiple tampons can clump together and form a massive mass that’s hard to break. This clump can cause a serious blockage issue that affects the septic system’s functioning, even increasing the chances of system failure.

  • Fibrous Nature

Tampon fibers can tangle with other materials like hairs and debris forming even larger and stubborn blockages that can affect the tank’s functioning.

How Many Tampons Can Clog a Septic Tank?

There is no definite number of tampons in the septic tank that will clog it. It depends on several factors.

  • Tank Size

A small septic tank has less capacity to handle non-biodegradable things. Thus, a few tampons can disrupt its function.

  • Frequency of Use

Regular flushing even in small numbers can cause accumulation in the long run. It increases the risk of clogging to a great extent. 

  • System Condition

A compromised or older septic system is more vulnerable to blockages than a new one. So, if your tank is not working properly or you are already facing issues, even a single tampon can be disastrous. 

  • Other Materials 

If tampons are flushed with other non-biodegradable products, the risk of clogging increases considerably. Some of these products are paper wipes, paper towels, or hygiene products.

Though it’s hard to say the exact number, it’s safe to say that only a few tampons can cause clogs in sewer lines that ultimately raise concerns for your septic tank. this is where sewer line cleaning services comes handy. 

The Best Ways to Avoid Clogs in Septic Tanks

Use these best procedures to keep your septic system in good working order and to prevent issues when flushing tampons:

  • Tampon Disposal in the Trash

Tampons, applicators, and wrappers should always be disposed of in the trash. Put a special trash can in the restroom to make things easier and deter flushing.

  • Educate Household Members

Ensure that all members of the household, including visitors, are aware that flushing tampons or any other non-biodegradable object is not acceptable. A useful reminder is to put up a notice in the toilet.

  • Regular Septic Tank Maintenance

Depending on the size and usage of your septic tank, schedule routine pumping, and inspections every three to five years. This helps in preventing accumulation and allows any issues to be caught early.

Conclusion 

Although the precise amount of how many tampons would clog a septic tank is unknown, even a small number over time can have a major negative impact. The best course of action is to never flush the tampon down the toilet. The other best thing is having regular pumping from professionals and in this regard, PrimeLine Plumbers is your best bet.

So, give us a call if you have any septic tank concerns, and let’s discuss the best course of action.  

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