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Here in our Colorado foothills community, the majority of homes and businesses are on septic systems. Keeping your system healthy is important to ensure your home remains safe and happy. One of the biggest issues we see at Shirley Septic Pumping, LLC when we are called out to pump septic tanks, service septic systems, or complete inspections is trash or other non-biodegradable items in tanks and pipes. Septic systems are sensitive to the materials that go down your drains and toilets. Flushing the wrong items can result in expensive fixes and headaches for homeowners. One of the easiest ways to avoid costly repairs and unpleasant odors is to be mindful of what you flush down the toilet or drain. Certain items can cause blockages, damage the system, or disrupt the natural bacterial balance necessary for proper wastewater treatment. We provide service, inspection, and pumping in Evergreen, Conifer, Pine, Bailey, Morrison, Golden, Indian Hills, Como, Jefferson, Fairplay, and Southpark. Here is a list of common items you should not flush if you have a septic system:


1. Non-Biodegradable Items:

  • Wipes: Baby wipes, cleaning wipes, and "flushable" wipes.
  • Feminine Hygiene Products: Tampons, pads, and applicators.
  • Condoms: Latex condoms do not break down in septic systems.
  • Diapers: Disposable and cloth diapers.
  • Dental Floss: This can wrap around other debris and create blockages.
  • Cotton Swabs and Balls: These do not break down easily and can clog pipes.
  • Band-Aids and Medical Dressings: These contain synthetic materials that do not decompose.

2. Chemicals and Household Cleaners:

  • Harsh Chemicals: Bleach, ammonia, and other strong cleaning agents.
  • Paints and Solvents: Including paint thinners, nail polish remover, and other solvents.
  • Pesticides and Herbicides: These can kill beneficial bacteria in the septic tank.
  • Motor Oil and Antifreeze: These are toxic and can harm the environment.

3. Food Waste:

  • Grease and Oil: Cooking fats, oils, and grease can solidify and clog pipes and the drain field.
  • Coffee Grounds: These do not break down and can contribute to sludge build-up.
  • Eggshells: They do not decompose easily and can cause blockages.
  • Bones: These do not break down in the septic system.

4. Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products:

  • Medications: Prescription and over-the-counter drugs can disrupt the bacterial balance.
  • Personal Care Products: Lotions, creams, and other skincare products containing chemicals.

5. Paper Products:

  • Paper Towels: These are not designed to break down in water.
  • Tissues: Though similar to toilet paper, they do not break down as easily.
  • Napkins: These can cause blockages due to their thickness.

6. Miscellaneous Items:

  • Cigarette Butts: These contain toxic chemicals and do not break down.
  • Cat Litter: Even "flushable" cat litter can cause clogs and does not break down adequately.
  • Hair: Human or pet hair can create clogs in the system.


There are other crucial steps you can take to maintain a healthy system:

  1. Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular inspections and pumping of your septic tank to prevent build-up and system failure. Shirley Septic Pumping, LLC does system service and inspections throughout the foothills in Evergreen, Pine, Bailey, Conifer, Morrison, Fairplay, Southpark, Jefferson, and Como Colorado. Give our office a call at 303-242-8687 or fill out a contact form online.
  2. Conserve Water: Excessive water use can overwhelm the septic system. Fix leaks and consider water-saving fixtures. It’s also a good idea to spread your water consumption out. Avoid running your laundry, showers, and dishwashers all at the same time to give your system a chance to work without getting overwhelmed by water. When Shirley Septic Pumping, LLC provides services, we can share information on how your system looks and provide specific insights on how to keep your system running well. We are also happy to provide a “Septic 101” with your service call. You can schedule any time by calling our office at 303-242-8687 or filling out a contact form online.

You can also find more information on our website at www.shirleyseptic.com. By avoiding flushing these items, maintaining regular maintenance, and being water-aware, you can help ensure your septic system operates efficiently and lasts longer, reducing the risk of costly repairs and environmental damage. If you have other questions or needs regarding your septic system, give us a call and we would love to help!

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