Skip to main content

In this article

    Septic tanks: What not to do

    1st June 2022

    More than half a million homes in the UK have a septic tank, and most homes with private drainage have a septic tank into which wastewater from loos, showers, sinks, and washing machines is discharged. Making sure you know what not to do with a septic tank is important to avoid unnecessary damage and expenses.

    Check out our list of what not to use with a septic tank, this is not a complete list as there are many other things but a basic list of everyday items. So, here are a few things you should not put in your septic tank:

    • Bleach
    • Paint
    • Disinfectants
    • Garden pesticides
    • Medicines
    • Solvents like white spirit
    • Drain cleaning and unblocking liquids that contain caustic soda
    • Cigarette butts
    • Disposable diapers
    • Sanitary pads & tampons
    • Wipes
    • Pop-off toilet brush scrubbers
    • Rubbish
    • Condoms
    • Hair
    • Plasters
    • String
    • Coffee grounds
    • Paper towels
    • anti-bacterial soaps – biodegradable soaps only!
    • latex, plastic, or metallic objects
    • hard toilet paper – soft is better for the tank
    • Dead fish
    • Kitchen grease

    There are cleaning products that have been specially designed for use with septic tanks, so keep an eye out for these as they are better for your tank. If you are unsure of any issues with your septic tank, please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01386 882324.

    Some of our services include:


    Get in touch

    Contact our friendly and professional team via form, phone or email for any drainage issues you may have.

    From blocked drains to septic tank repairs and replacements, we're here to help. We have over 25 years of experience and offer 24/7 emergency callouts.


    Cotswold drainage did a great job jetting our sewer pipe and putting in a new manhole cover. Adrian and Keith on site ,Sara and Chris in the office sorting it out for us were great.
    - Eddie Ayliffe
    Amazing service , quick call out and rectified a tricky blockage. 5 ⭐️. Recommended to others already. Thank you
    - Michelle
    Excellent service from start to finish
    - Ryan THOMAS
    We are unfortunately in a position, due to changes in the laws in recent years whereby our original Victorian septic system does not meet current regulations. We also have an issue where the pipe that drains the water from our current system runs under the road onto a neighbouring property. As you can imagine this has caused real issues. We cannot speak highly enough of Stuart and his colleagues at Cotswold Drainage. They have been fantastic, visiting site, talking us through various issues and generally holding our hand through a very stressful time. We are looking forward to having the new system installed in the Spring. Ann & Gerry Hanagarth
    - Gerry Hanagarth
    Cotswold Drainage are super efficient and extremely helpful.
    - Arabella Kiszely
    Fantastic service. Fast and efficient!
    - Andrew Seale
    Cotswold Drainage came out to clear a blocked drainage pipe in our shop and once again were quick to respond and professional throughout the duration of their work. These guys are our go-to when jobs are too big for the plumber. Very competitively priced too!
    - John Geoghegan
      Please let us know your name.
      Please let us know your email address.
      Invalid Input
      Invalid Input
      Please let us know your message.

      Related Articles

      How much does it cost to empty a septic tank?

      How to check if your septic tank needs emptying

      Septic Tanks: Your questions answered