Can You Use Bleach with Septic System

You might consider bleach to be a great cleaner to use for your septic system. Unfortunately, that mindset is a dangerous one to have because it’s usually recommended to avoid using bleach in your septic system. The chemicals within bleach can kill the bacteria that your septic tank relies on.

Will bleach damage a septic system?

Flushing bleach down your drains will kill all of the bacteria in your septic tank—even the good ones. … They may have a corrosive effect on parts of your septic system, however. Additionally, they might also damage the natural balance of bacteria and other substances that live in your septic system.

What cleaning products are safe to use with septic systems?

Vinegar (white vinegar and apple cider vinegar), Borax, OxiClean, and baking soda are some products that can be used to clean very well and be septic-system safe. Oxidized bleaches are also a less hazardous alternative to chlorine bleach.