Safe for septic tank (64)

If you’re a city dweller, you might not be all that familiar with alternative drainage systems like septic tanks. But if you live in a rural area, chances are you know a thing or two about these low-energy, low-cost tanks that also support our ecosystem. Whether you’ve added a septic tank in hopes of cutting down your monthly budget or your monthly waste (or both!), shopping for household products that won’t disturb your system is a must. That means you’ll be on the lookout for detergents and cleaners marked “Safe for Septic Tank.” Good news! As always, Thrive has you covered.

What Does Safe for Septic Tank Mean?

Popular among those who are working toward a zero-waste home, septic tanks are alternative drainage systems commonly used in rural homes that don’t have centralized sewage systems. Septic tanks work by collecting waste and water, and using bacteria to separate it and release the water onto a soil patch known as a drainfield. The drainfield naturally cleans the water and enables it to return to the groundwater systems. Products that are marked as “safe for septic tank” are made with materials that can easily be managed by these systems and will not disturb the ecosystem once processed and released back into the ground. Typically, these products include concentrated, biodegradable laundry detergents that are low-sudsing and either low- or no-phosphate, non-toxic cleaning products, and single-ply toilet papers.

Benefits of Septic Tanks

Septic tanks help generate plant growth and nourish the soil as water is pushed through the drainfields. And unlike sewage pipes, a septic system is a closed loop system. That makes for a major reduction in energy consumption and lowers your monthly utility bill. Plus, septic tanks are built to last for decades, so you won’t find yourself replacing them often.

Tips for Septic Tank Success

Cutting your energy consumption down by way of a septic system? Keep things running smoothly with these smart household tips:

• Avoid doing multiple loads of laundry in a single day. Instead, spread loads out over the course of the week to avoid system overload.
• Take a moment each week to run the water in sinks, tubs, and showers that aren’t used regularly. This helps prevent the buildup of noxious gases.
• Don’t use a garbage disposal with a septic tank, as it cannot break down food particles.

Top Safe for Septic Tank Brands

These home essentials are septic tank-friendly.

Molly's Suds

Molly’s Suds has had one mission in mind since its launch in 2008—to reduce exposure to harmful chemicals through nature-based laundry products. Today, the brand offers household cleaning staples made from eco-friendly, safe formulas designed to get the job done.

Peppermint Laundry Powder

This super-concentrated formula is made without harsh chemicals, toxins, fillers, carcinogens, preservatives, or GMO ingredients and lasts for up to 70 loads.

Planet

Planet. is an earth-first brand that’s as dedicated to creating effective and beloved household cleaning products as it is to protecting the environment through eco-friendly formulas and packaging.

2x HE Ultra Laundry Liquid Detergent

Good for up to 32 loads, this super-concentrated detergent is 100 percent biodegradable and free of chemicals, fragrances, and synthetic preservatives.

Thrive Market

Our very own Thrive Market Collection offers premium household staples without compromising on eco-friendliness. From pantry staples to body care essentials, the range has something for everyone.

Peppermint Laundry Powder

Each bag of our eco-friendly detergent powder tackles up to 70 loads and omits petrochemicals, brighteners, and artificial fragrances in favor of natural enzymes and essential oils.

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