If your house is using a septic system then it would be best to use the right kind of toilet paper for the proper maintenance of that system.

There are basically 3 things to look for on the label when buying a good toilet paper for homes with septic systems:

  1. biodegradable
  2. recycled
  3. septic safe

Now, the paper you buy does not need to have all 3 of these but 2 of the 3 would be preferred.

Biodegradable Toilet Paper For Septic Tanks

Toilet paper ends up in your septic tank and although all toilet paper will eventually dissolve, the ones that are biodegradable dissolve at a much faster rate. This means less “stuff” in your septic tank which is a good thing.

The other benefit to biodegradable toilet paper is that it requires less water to dissolve which is also a very good thing.

The downside to this type of toilet paper is that it’s usually not as soft as other types. So, it may take some time getting used to it.

Recycled Toilet Paper For Septic Tanks

This type of toilet paper also dissolves quicker than the standard types which again, is good for your septic tank. In addition, the recycled papers most often are made up of less chemicals than their standard counterparts which is also very good for your septic tank.

Some of the chemicals found in toilet paper (like bleach) can cause havoc to the “bacterial balance” that is in your septic tank which could cause you some problems down the line.

Septic Safe Toilet Paper

Some companies go ahead and mark their product “septic safe” which basically is telling you that it dissolves faster than the standard toilet paper. It could be that it breaks down faster because it’s biodegradable OR it’s recycled. Whatever the reason – it’s safer to use than the other standard toilet paper products if your house is using a septic system.

If you want to check to see if your paper is safe just take a few squares (3 or 4) and place them in a container that has a lid and is filled with water. Place the lid and shake the container for about 10 seconds. If the toilet paper has broken down, then you know it’s safe for your septic system.

If you have any questions about your septic system or are having some problems with it, call Atlantis Plumbing today at 770-505-8570. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.