A sewer system that is hooked up to a home relies on bacteria to efficiently break down waste. In order to maintain the bacteria’s ability to function, you need to be mindful of the chemicals that enter your septic system, such as laundry detergents.
According to Procter and Gamble, it has been determined that Tide laundry detergents are safe for use in septic tanks. Tide laundry detergent will not damage or disturb septic systems if used according to the manufacturer’s directions.
Tide laundry detergent is generally considered safe for septic systems. However, Tide’s various products may have varying effects.
How safe are Tide Pods for septic systems?
Tide Pods are an easy-to-use laundry detergent that comes in pre-measured packets. Tide Pods are safe for use in septic tanks when they are used in accordance with the instructions on the packaging. The polyvinyl alcohol plastic, which encloses the detergent, is not completely biodegradable, even though it is generally safe for septic systems.
A study investigating the use of laundry detergent pods state-by-state as related to the degradation of polyvinyl alcohol discovered that despite absorption through washing machine pipes and septic tanks, the polyvinyl alcohol is not completely degraded at the point of entry into wastewater treatment facilities.
Having this plastic end up in water supply systems or landfills and soaking up carcinogens from the environment, which may take decades to fully decompose, can be damaging to the environment.
Is Tide washing machine cleaner safe to use on septic systems?
Washing machines and pipes can be kept clean by using Tide’s washing machine cleaner, which is considered septic safe, and helps keep them free of odours, detergent residue, and hard water mineral buildup. This helps keep septic systems healthy.
How safe is Tide Powder Detergent for septic systems?
However, Procter and Gamble deems Tide powder detergent to be safe for septic systems. However, powdered detergents pose greater risks to piping and tank systems when compared to their liquid counterparts.
It is the cheapest form of laundry detergent, and it is considered to be eco-friendly since the packaging is recyclable. However, powder detergent does not always completely dissolve in water, particularly in cold water, resulting in clogged pipes and potentially a clogged septic system.
To deliver suds and surfactants, powder laundry detergent uses a clay-based carrier, increasing the probability of clumping. You should use powder detergent at the recommended temperature, and ensure it dissolves fully to prevent clogs.
What is the safety of Tide Liquid Detergent for septic systems?
Using a liquid detergent like Tide to clean a septic system is the safest option. Liquid Tide detergent won’t clog pipes or septic tanks since it comes in liquid form. The most economical option is liquid detergent because it can be used in most water conditions and temperatures.
Which Tide Detergent Should I Use If I Have a Septic System?
According to Procter and Gamble, Tide laundry products are safe to use on septic systems provided they are in proper working order and are applied in the recommended quantities. As a result of the differences in detergent formats, Tide liquid detergent is the safest choice.
When compared to powder and pod detergents, Tide liquid detergent does not pose the risk of clogging pipes, nor does it pose the risk of only partially degrading as it passes through wastewater systems.
Final Thoughts
The detergent was tested and is deemed safe for use in septic systems. However, you must also take into consideration the environmental friendliness of the varying modes of laundry detergent and the overall long-term maintenance of the piping system in your washing machine. Considering all the factors involved, liquid detergent is the most sanitary and environmentally friendly option.
