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    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.

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    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.


    Great service from Cotswold Drainage Ltd. Less than 48 hours from initial contact to drains flowing freely again. Whole area left neat and tidy - very happy with result.
    - Simon Gravestock
    - Johanna Michl
    I found this company vie the internet, so had no prior knowledge or reference. The project manager visited on time and I found his ideas and plans very credible. We did a deal and all worked out exactly as the company described, including cost and timing. I have no complaints, and am very satisfied and I would highly recommend this company. for such work.
    - Richard Booth
    Loo's were backing up so contacted Cotswold Drainage at 12 noon on a Saturday via WhatsApp which was listed on their website. They responded within 60 seconds and Adrian was at our house by 3pm, quickly assessed our underground drains layout and unblocked it in less than 15 minutes. To make sure everything was 100%, he got us to flush all loos to ensure water was flowing correctly and finished off with a camera up the drains to check everything was totally clear. A very efficient and thorough service and they even guarantee the work for six months. Highly recommended. Thank you.
    - PhilipC
    Cotswold Drainage are absolutely fantastic! Always prompt, always reliable, and they sort out every issue with impressive speed. Our workplace drains cause more trouble than we’d like, but these guys come to the rescue every single time. Truly outstanding service!”
    - Rachel Coates
    Cotswold Drainage were great & would definitely recommend! All the staff were friendly, professional & did a brilliant job mending our septic tank!
    - Tracey Butler
    Fast and efficient
    - Alastair
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