If your home uses a septic system, choosing the right toilet paper isn’t just about comfort — it’s essential for keeping your plumbing and septic tank functioning properly. Using the wrong type of toilet paper can lead to clogs, slow drainage, and even expensive septic system repairs.
In this guide, we’ll break down what makes the best toilet paper for a septic system. We’ll highlight the preferred brands and offer tips to protect your system long-term.
Why It Matters That Toilet Paper Is Septic-Safe
Septic systems rely on natural bacteria to break down waste. Some types of toilet paper can disrupt this process or take too long to dissolve, leading to a buildup in your tank or pipes. Over time, this can cause:
- Clogged drain lines
- Premature tank pumping
- System backups or overflows
“Homeowners often don’t realize that thick or quilted toilet paper doesn’t break down easily in septic tanks. Choosing a fast-dissolving brand is one of the simplest ways to extend the life of your system.” – Jason Miller, Licensed Plumber at Miller Plumbing Services
What Toilet Paper Is Septic Safe?
When shopping for septic-friendly toilet paper, look for these key features:
1. Rapid Dissolvability
The toilet paper should dissolve quickly in water so it doesn’t linger in pipes or tanks.
2. No Added Dyes or Lotions
Fragrances and lotions can harm beneficial bacteria inside your septic tank.
3. Biodegradable Materials
This includes natural fibers like recycled paper or bamboo that break down easily.
4. Single-Ply or Soft Two-Ply
Softer but thinner sheets are easier on plumbing than ultra-thick varieties.
You can test dissolvability at home by placing a few sheets in a jar of water and shaking it — if it breaks apart quickly, it’s likely safe for your system.
Top Septic-Safe Toilet Paper Brands
1. Scott Rapid-Dissolving Toilet Paper
- Designed specifically for RVs and boats (which use small-scale septic systems)
- Dissolves four times faster than standard TP
- Smooth single-ply design that’s soft yet strong
2. Seventh Generation Unbleached Bathroom Tissue
- Made from 100% recycled content with no dyes or fragrances
- BPI-certified biodegradable material is safe for all plumbing types
3. Caboo Tree-Free Bamboo Toilet Paper
- Sustainably made from bamboo fibers (tree-free)
- Chemical-free and hypoallergenic formula is ideal for sensitive systems
- Dissolves quickly without clogging pipes or tanks
“We recommend customers with older plumbing systems switch to bamboo-based products like Caboo — they’re soft but still dissolve rapidly.”
— Amanda Lopez from Green Flush Plumbing Co.
Tips for Protecting Your Septic System Beyond Toilet Paper
Selecting safe TP is just one part of maintaining a healthy system:
- Avoid flushing wipes (even “flushable” ones), feminine hygiene products, tissues, or anything non-biodegradable.
- Install high-efficiency toilets that use less water per flush.
- Consider bidet seats and built-in bidet toilets as an eco-friendly alternative to heavy TP usage.
FAQ: Septic-Safe Toilet Paper
- Q: Can I use two-ply toilet paper with a septic system?
- A: Yes, as long as it’s labeled “septic-safe” and dissolves quickly. Avoid ultra-plush varieties that resist breaking down .
- Q: How do I know if my current TP is safe?
- A: Perform a shake test: place some TP in a jar of water, shake vigorously — if it falls apart easily, it’s likely fine .
- Q: Will using regular TP damage my septic tank immediately?
- A: Not necessarily right away — but over time it can lead to buildup, shorten pump-out intervals, or cause costly backups .
- Q: Is recycled toilet paper better for my septic?
- A: Often yes! Recycled TP typically lacks harsh chemicals and breaks down faster than virgin-fiber papers.
Resources
If you’re making upgrades around the bathroom while protecting your plumbing system:
- Shop all bathroom essentials at PlumbersStock.
- One of the most popular solutions we have for septic is this Leaching Chamber.
- Toilet bowls are designed for efficient flushing performance.
- Replacement tanks are compatible with modern low-flow toilets.
- Use durable toilet supply lines when upgrading fixtures.
- Comfortable and durable toilet seats in various styles.
- Fill valves that help regulate water levels efficiently.
- High-quality flappers that prevent leaks and conserve water.
Your choice of toilet paper matters more than you think, especially when you rely on a septic system!
About the Author
Cliff is a proud Dad and already a Grandpa, if you can believe it! He likes to lift weights, play basketball, hunt, and do just about anything outside. He has been in the construction and plumbing business off and on since 1989 and has tons of experience in many areas of home improvement.
