Are Detergent Sheets Safe for Septic Systems?

Flushing the wrong things can wreak havoc on your plumbing, especially if you have a septic system. You may already know the big ones—things like feminine products, bacon grease, and even so-called flushable wipes. But did you know that certain cleaning products can be problematic as well? Even things like laundry detergent.

The good news is that many laundry detergent sheets are safe for septic systems. However, it’s essential to choose the right brand. There’s also a right and a wrong way to use laundry detergent sheets. Don’t worry, we’re here to give you all the crucial information you need to know.

In this guide, we’ll explore the subject of laundry detergent sheets to determine whether they’re septic-safe and how to use them properly.

How Laundry Detergent Impacts Septic Systems

Septic systems are commonly used in rural and suburban areas that don’t have access to a municipal sewer. They’re self-contained systems designed to treat wastewater—all the used water from your toilets, sinks, and showers as well as household appliances like dishwashers and washing machines.

A septic system typically includes a septic tank where solids are broken down by beneficial bacteria and a drain field where the treated water filters naturally into the surrounding soil. Anything you put through your household plumbing system will eventually end up in the septic tank. Flushing certain things down the toilet or pouring them down the drain could not only clog the plumbing but kill the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank, compromising the efficacy of the system.

Conventional laundry detergents are loaded with chemical ingredients designed to break down stains, soften fabrics, and neutralize odor. The problem is some of those ingredients are harmful to the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank. Plus, those chemicals can leech into the soil through the drain field and affect the local ecosystem as they seep into the groundwater.

Signs Your Laundry Detergent is Harming Your Septic System

There’s an endless variety of laundry products on the market, and they’re not all created equal. From watered-down liquid detergents to chemical-laden powders and everything in between, using the wrong product could not only keep your clothes from coming out fully clean, but it could be damaging your septic system.

Here are some signs you might notice if your laundry detergent isn’t septic-safe: 

1. Unpleasant Odors

A healthy septic system shouldn’t have any noticeable odor. If you notice unpleasant odors (like sewage or a rotten egg smell) around the septic tank or inside your house, it could be a sign that something is wrong. 

In some cases, it’s a matter of not emptying the septic system often enough. But it could also mean there’s a problem with the beneficial bacteria in the tank. Something in your water (like chemical-laden laundry detergent) might be killing off the bacteria in your septic tank, leading to a buildup of waste that isn’t being broken down like it should.

2. Slow Drains or Backups

If one sink or shower is draining slowly, it’s worth looking for a clog in your plumbing system. But if all your drains are slow or you experience frequent backups, it’s time to take a look at the septic system. 

Slow drains and frequent backups can be a sign that solids are building up in the tank instead of being broken down by beneficial bacteria. Again, failing to empty the tank could be a factor but it’s often a multifaceted problem with a decrease in beneficial bacteria at the core. 

3. Soggy Drain Field

The drain field is the area where treated water from the septic tank enters the soil. If the drain field is frequently soggy or wet (especially when it hasn’t rained), it means that the drainage process isn’t working properly. It could be a sign that chemicals from your plumbing system are affecting the health of the soil, preventing it from filtering water properly.

Whether you’re concerned your current laundry detergent is harming your septic system or you’re just looking for a better solution, consider making the switch to detergent sheets. Keep reading to learn more about them!

Are Laundry Detergent Sheets Septic-Safe?

Yes, many laundry detergent sheets are safe for septic systems. If you’re not familiar with detergent sheets, they’re single-use, biodegradable sheets of concentrated laundry detergent that can be tossed right into the washing machine along with your dirty clothes.

Detergent sheets aren’t just a hassle-free alternative to liquid and powder detergents, but they may be a safer option for your septic system. Here’s why:

1. They’re made with biodegradable ingredients. While conventional detergents contain ingredients that can kill the beneficial bacteria in your septic tank, detergent sheets are often biodegradable—made with ingredients that break down naturally. 

2. They contain fewer harsh chemicals. Many detergent sheets are formulated without chemicals known to disrupt the bacterial balance in septic tanks, including phosphates, anti-bacterial soaps, and synthetic fragrances.

3. They dissolve completely in water. Because they dissolve completely in water, detergent sheets won’t leave behind any solids or residues that could clog your septic system or cause an issue with the drain field.

4. They’re pre-measured for convenience. Overuse of liquid and powder detergents can be bad for your septic system but detergent sheets contain a pre-measured amount of detergent, so you don’t have to worry.

As with any household product, all laundry detergent sheets are not created equal. When shopping, make sure to look for “septic-safe” labels and double-check the ingredients list for chemicals that might negatively impact your septic system. It’s also important to use the product as directed to avoid potential issues.

Save Time and Money with Sheets Laundry Club

If you’re ready to start taking better care of your septic system, make the switch to detergent sheets. With Sheets Laundry Club, you’ll enjoy hassle-free convenience without compromising on cleanliness. It’s a quick, easy, and effective alternative to messy liquid and powder detergents. All you need is one sheet per load! 

Get started with a 1-month Laundry Bundle, complete with detergent sheets, in-wash scent booster, and dryer sheets. Or save even more when you start a subscription.