Anyone that runs their home or cabin on a septic system knows how important it is to use a septic-safe toilet cleaner. Given that septic systems require certain types of bacteria to help break waste down, you need to make sure that you are choosing a cleaning product that will not negatively impact your septic system’s overall performance.
From cleaning a hard water stain in your toilet tank or bowl, to preventing bad odor, we will go over the essentials on septic system-safe toilet cleaners.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Toilet Cleaners Safe For Septic
- OUR TOP PICK: Better Life Natural Toilet Bowl Cleaner
- RUNNER-UP: Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner with Bleach
Comparison of the Best Toilet Cleaners Safe for Septic
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How to Choose a Toilet Cleaner That is Safe for Your Septic System
Before we get into our reviews for the best products on the market, we are going to go over some important things you need to take into consideration before you choose a septic-safe toilet cleaning product:
Disinfectant Capabilities
There is no use in purchasing any household cleaner if it does not properly disinfect the area you’re cleaning. While it is important to choose a product that will not harm your septic system once it has entered the septic tank, you still want a cleaning product that will kill the harmful types of bacteria that can grow and spread on the interior and exterior surfaces of your toilet.
Easy Spray Nozzle
The best cleaning products are packaged in bottles that have easy spray nozzles. This allows you to get the cleaning spray or gel in the most difficult to reach areas of your toilet bowl, including under the rim. These areas are where bacteria, mold, and mildew tend to grow, so it is really important that you reach them. Look for angled nozzles, rather than simple threaded caps.
These angled nozzles really let you direct the product under the rim, which allows you to scrub it in properly with your toilet brush.
Biodegradable Ingredients
As mentioned, it is important that your toilet cleaning product does not destroy your septic system’s ability to break waste down into more manageable components. This is why the best septic-friendly cleaning products are made from biodegradable ingredients that will not linger in your septic system and destroy its natural bacterial and enzyme makeup. Synthetic fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals can all damage your septic system and the surrounding environment, which is why we always recommend cleaning products that are made from natural, biodegradable ingredients.
Deodorizing Properties
Nobody wants to deal with a stinky toilet, which is why you should always look for deodorizing properties in a cleaning product, rather than artificial fragrances that simply cover up bad smells for a short period of time. As a bonus, most of the deodorizing ingredients also help to whiten and brighten your toilet bowl, so your toilet will have a fresher scent and a spotless appearance!
Reviews of the Best Toilet Cleaners That Are Safe for Septic
Now that you know some of the things you should be looking for when you choose a septic-safe cleaning product, we can go over reviews of five of the best options available today:
Best Overall
Better Life Natural Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Specifications
Size: 24 fl oz
Scent(s): Tea Tree and Peppermint
Biodegradable? Yes
Contains Bleach? No
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Review
This all-natural toilet bowl cleaner from Better Life is an excellent product for anyone that is looking for a kid and pet-friendly, plant-based cleaner that is safe for septic systems. The cleaner comes in the form of a gel, which makes it easier to use than a spray. It clings to stains, so you can easily scrub them clean with any toilet brush.
Not only is it effective at breaking down toilet bowl rings, stubborn stains, and other common issues, it deodorizes any surface it makes contact with, so your toilet will be left with a clean and fresh scent. Since it is free from harsh chemicals, it is completely safe for the environment, as well as any type of septic system.
Bottom Line
Not only is this natural toilet cleaning product safe for septic systems, but it is also an extremely eco-friendly choice. The lack of synthetic fragrances, dyes, alcohol, bleach, and sulfates means that it will not harm your septic system, or pose a threat to the surrounding environment or groundwater table. Overall, it is an outstanding choice, which is why we listed it as our best overall septic-friendly toilet cleaner!
Pros
Bleach-free, so it is safe around kids and pets
Deodorizes your toilet and leaves it with a natural peppermint scent
Angled spray nozzle allows you to reach under the rim and other difficult to reach areas
Completely biodegradable and free from harmful dyes, alcohol, and synthetic fragrances
Made from natural, yet powerful plant-based cleaning agents, so it is safe for septic systems
Cons
Does not handle limescale stains and buildup very well
Runner-up
Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Specifications
Size: 24 fl oz
Scent: Lavender
Biodegradable? Yes
Contains Bleach? No
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Review
Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day makes a wide variety of natural, plant-based cleaning products. This septic system safe toilet bowl cleaner is the perfect option for anyone that is looking for an effective product that is made without harsh, unnatural ingredients.
Naturally acidic ingredients help cut through stains, as well as stubborn mineral deposits. Not only is it really effective, the essential oils leave your toilet with a lasting and natural scent. The shape of the bottle makes it easy to direct the spray underneath the rim of the toilet bowl; however, the cleaner is completely transparent, which can make it difficult to see where you applied it during cleaning sessions.
We really liked that it is made without phthalates, chlorine, artificial colors, and bleach. The fact that it is also available at a fair price means that this toilet cleaner from Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day is an excellent option!
Bottom Line
This toilet bowl cleaner is completely safe for septic systems, so you will not have to worry about it disrupting your system’s current performance. It is made from safe and natural ingredients, so you will be doing your part for the environment as you clean your toilet and protect your septic system.
Pros
Septic safe and completely biodegradable
Cuts through stubborn stains and mineral deposits
Deodorizes and leaves your toilet with a fresh and natural scent
Made from plant-based components, rather than harsh chemicals
Angled applicator nozzle makes it easy to direct the product under the rim
Cons
Transparent color makes it somewhat difficult to see while you are cleaning
Best for the Money
Clorox Toilet Bowl Cleaner with Bleach
Specifications
Size: 24 fl oz
Scent(s): Fresh and Cool Wave
Biodegradable? No
Contains Bleach? Yes
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Review
When it comes to cleaning products, Clorox is one of the most well-known names in the world. This variety pack of toilet bowl cleaners offers outstanding value, so it is a great choice for anyone that is on a tight budget. In terms of performance, each of the cleaners is able to cut through stubborn stains. The unique blend ingredients also help to whiten, brighten, and deodorize the interior and exterior surfaces of a toilet.
While the bleach component might be a concern for some, bleach-safe septic systems will be able to tolerate it. What we really like about this product is the fact that it can kill up to 99 percent of the harmful germs that grow and spread inside toilets.
The gel consistency and angled, screw-cap applicator makes sure that you can clean anywhere inside and outside of your toilet.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for an effective toilet bowl cleaner at a budget-friendly price, you cannot go wrong with this variety pack by Clorox. Just make sure that you check to make sure that your septic system can tolerate bleach, as each of the cleaners contains enough Clorox bleach to cut through stubborn stains and disinfect any surface it contacts.
Pros
Neutralizes unpleasant odors
Disinfects and kills harmful bacteria
Budget-friendly variety pack will last for years
Applicator nozzle makes it easy to direct the cleaning gel where you need it
The clinging gel makes it easy to clean even the most difficult to reach areas of your toilet
Cons
Contains bleach, which can be harmful to certain septic systems
Best RV Septic Tank Cleaner
Camco TST RV Toilet Treatment
Specifications
Size: 1 gallon
Scent: Clean
Biodegradable? Yes
Contains Bleach? No
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Review
If you own an RV, you know how important it is to only use safe cleaning products when cleaning your toilet or septic system. The TST RV Toilet Treatment from Camco is formulated with a bacterial and enzyme complex that helps break waste and toilet paper down within your RV’s septic system after it has been flushed. While this concept is not new, the fact that Camco were able to make it more stable, so it will not lose its effectiveness after a short period of time is really innovative.
We also really liked how well it deodorizes toilets, which we all know can be a concern when you are dealing with an RV. You can choose an unscented version, or your choice of lavender, orange, or mint scents. Not only is it great for your septic system, it works really well as a cleaning product, as it can help remove stains very effectively.
Bottom Line
When it comes to maintaining toilets inside boats and RVs, Camco really knows what they are doing. The fact this product cleans your toilet and continues to work even after it has been flushed means that it is the ideal choice for anyone that is looking to maintain a toilet within a mobile home. While it is a little bit pricey, you certainly get what you pay for!
Pros
Available in four unique scents
Deodorizes the toilet and leaves it smelling fresh for at least 7 days
Completely biodegradable, so it is safe for septic systems and the environment
Long shelf-life and not temperature sensitive, which can be the case with other RV toilet treatments
Contains a bacterial and enzyme complex that helps digest and break down waste and toilet paper
Cons
Fairly expensive
Editor’s Pick
Method Antibacterial Toilet Bowl Cleaner
Specifications
Size: 24 fl oz
Scent: Spearmint
Biodegradable? Yes
Contains Bleach? No
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Review
Method Antibacterial Toilet Bowl Cleaner contains natural, plant-based ingredients, so it is safe for all septic systems. The fact it kills harmful types of bacteria that can grow inside your toilet bowls is a major plus for those that want to make sure their bathroom is a sanitary space. The natural spearmint scent smells great and the citric acid helps break up stains and mineral deposits, so your toilet can have that fresh look and smell.
We really like that it comes packaged with two 24 ounce bottles, as this helps keep the overall cost down. While we would have preferred if the bottle had an angled neck, it is still an effective cleaning product that you can use on the inside and outside of your toilet.
Bottom Line
Bleach-free toilet cleaning products are surprisingly difficult to find, so if you want something that will not harm your septic tank or the beneficial microorganisms inside of it, you should probably give this Method Antibacterial Toilet Bowl Cleaner a try! It smells fantastic and it works incredibly well as a cleaning product. Non-toxic ingredients mean it is safe for your septic tank, as well as your family!
Pros
Affordable price
Fresh spearmint scent
Made from plant-based cleaning ingredients
Bleach-free formula is safe for all types of septic tanks
Citric acid helps cut through stains and grime, so your toilet can have a spotless shine
Cons
The nozzle makes it a little bit difficult to reach under the rim of the toilet
Why Does it Matter What Toilet Cleaner I Use With a Septic System?
There are two main reasons why you need to use a septic-safe cleaning product when you are using a toilet that is connected to a septic system. For starters, you do not want to choose a product that will completely eliminate the bacteria and microorganisms inside your septic tank. This is because these microscopic organisms actually help to break down the waste and toilet paper inside your septic tank, which allows the tank to store more waste before it needs to be emptied.
The second reason why it is important to choose the right cleaning product is the fact that some of the water that gets flushed down the toilet will be filtered and released back into the natural groundwater system. If the water is filled with harmful chemicals, it can become an environmental hazard and contaminate water that is needed to sustain plant and animal life in the area.
By choosing the right cleaning product, you will make sure that your septic system works correctly and you are doing your part to protect groundwater reserves and the surrounding environment.
Types of Toilet Cleaners That Are Septic Safe
Not all cleaners can be used with a septic system. Here are some that are:
Plant-Based and Biodegradable Commercial Toilet Cleaners
As the name suggests, these are toilet cleaning products that are made from natural ingredients. In most cases, they use plant-based ingredients, rather than harsh chemicals. After the products have been flushed, they will begin to biodegrade, so they will not harm your septic system or the environment that surrounds your septic tank. As an added bonus, these natural products are much safer to use if you have small children or curious pets, as they are far less toxic than products that contain dangerous chemicals, like bleach!
Homemade Toilet Cleaning Mixtures
While they are rarely as effective, you can also create your own septic-safe toilet cleaning mixture. Natural and biodegradable ingredients, like white vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice can all be used to clean your toilet. Since they are all biodegradable ingredients, they will not harm the interior of your septic system and they pose very little risk to the wider environment.
Septic-Safe Drop-in Tabs
These cleaning products are not delivered in the form of a liquid spray or gel. They are small tablets that you drop into your toilet. As they dissolve, they release natural ingredients that help loosen up stains and mineral deposits. Once they have fully dissolved inside the toilet bowl, you can use a toilet scrubbing brush to clean the interior of the bowl. Since they are mostly baking soda-based, they will not harm your septic tank or the surrounding groundwater.
Top Brands in the Septic-Safe Toilet Cleaner Space
Now that you know more about septic-safe toilet cleaning products, we can go over some of the top brands in the industry:
Better Life
Better Life was founded in 2008 with an aim to create kid-friendly cleaning products. When the two founders noticed that their infant kids were crawling on floors that were just washed with harsh chemicals, they decided to make a brand that would focus on effective cleaning products that only contain safe, natural ingredients. As an added bonus, their all-natural cleaning products are also completely safe to use with septic systems!
Mrs. Meyers
This innovative brand has a simple mission – create effective, plant-based cleaning products that have garden-inspired scents. As you would expect, their products are free from harsh chemicals that would otherwise pose a risk to the environment and septic systems. They also infuse their cleaning products with essential oils that leave lasting scents, so your toilet will smell better than ever!
Camco
Camco was founded in 1966 and has grown to become a major manufacturer of RV and boat supplies. Their cleaning products are specifically tailored to the unique needs of mobile septic systems, so there is no risk that they will damage your septic system or the surrounding environment. They have grown from a small family-owned business to one of the most recognizable brands in the entire industry!
Conclusion
Choosing a septic-safe toilet cleaner does not have to be a difficult process. By choosing any of the five products we reviewed above, you will be able to keep your toilet looking and smelling fresh, without posing any threat to your septic system, or the wider environment!
People Also Ask
Here are some answers to your questions.
While some toilet cleaning tablets contain harsh chemicals, others are made from natural ingredients, like baking soda. As long as the cleaning tablets are made with septic-friendly ingredients, you should be able to use them to clean your toilet!
There are certain products that you should not use with a septic tank, as they can damage the bacteria within the tank and become a risk to the wider environment. Any sort of pure ammonia or bleach product should never be used. Essentially, you want to avoid using any sort of harsh chemicals while you are cleaning your toilet.
Pure Clorox bleach can be very harmful, but there are some diluted Clorox toilet cleaning products that should be okay. Make sure that your septic tank does not leak liquids into the groundwater if you plan on using a Clorox product that contains any volume of bleach.
