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Why You Shouldn't Flush Coffee Grounds Down the Drain
Coffee grounds are natural, non-toxic, and small, so scooping them into the sink may seem completely harmless. However, ground coffee beans are among the worst ingredients you can put in your plumbing, especially if you have a septic system. The following guide explores why coffee grounds should always go in the trash.
How Coffee Grounds Harm Your Plumbing
The combination of coffee grounds and grease is likely one of the most common causes of clogged pipes. Oil and fat deposits inside the lines absorb coffee grounds. Since these particles don’t break down in the water, the buildup continues until a drain is completely clogged. Grease accumulations reinforced with coffee grounds harden, creating a clog that is nearly impossible to dislodge.
Coffee Grounds & Your Septic Tank
Septic systems are designed to process human waste and toilet paper. Coffee grounds may not be as harmful as bleach and other everyday household products, but they won’t break down like solid waste.
Instead, the grounds settle to the bottom of the tank, causing it to fill up more quickly. At the least, this results in more frequent pumping, which drives up your maintenance costs. However, a clogged tank can also force waste back into your home, causing serious messes and extensive water damage.
How to Dispose of Your Coffee Grounds
Fertilizer
While you shouldn’t flush coffee grounds down the drain, they don’t necessarily have to go in the trash. Coffee grounds are a natural insect repellent and fertilizer that can stimulate plant growth. It can even be spread directly on the soil without mulching first.
Exfoliant
Coffee grounds are also an amazing skin exfoliant, and a small pinch won’t harm your pipes. You can rub coffee grounds on your hands to remove stains, stubborn smells, and oils, or mix them with coconut oil to make an environmentally friendly shower scrub that’s great for your skin.
If you've routinely washed coffee grounds down your drain, rely on Queen's Septic Tank Service in Archdale, NC, for septic pumping to reset your system. Since 1986, they’ve served homeowners throughout Guilford, Randolph, Davidson, and Forsyth counties, offering routine maintenance and emergency repairs. They have the expertise to handle any situation, and you can count on them for exceptional service and fair prices. Visit the website for a complete list of services, or call (336) 870-1144 to schedule an inspection.
