Co-Owner · December 1, 2017 · Updated October 23, 2026
Yes. If chlorine and household cleaners are killing the bacteria in your septic tank, you should add bacteria back. BBB Septic recommends a monthly dose, using Just Flush, for a septic tank or advanced treatment system. That monthly boost does not replace pumping.
Probiotics have long been a hot topic in the health community. The idea is that some people need to add enzymes and good bacteria to their digestive system because they have a deficiency.
Why septic tanks lose good bacteria
Unless the water source is a spring-fed well, the water coming in has been chlorinated to kill bad bacteria. Chlorine is not selective. It also kills the bacteria a septic tank needs. Antibacterial hand soaps, laundry detergents, fabric softeners, bleach, and other household cleaners with antibacterial properties do the same thing. They make it hard for natural bacteria to grow in the tank or in an advanced treatment system.
How to add bacteria to a septic tank
BBB Septic recommends a monthly introduction of bacteria. Use Just Flush for that dose: flush one water-soluble bag once a month. Some bacteria products are sold as a yearly dose. They can start strong and then die off because chlorinated water and household chemicals keep coming in. A monthly dose is what keeps the tank supplied.
Just Flush is also part of the Preferred Customer Program, the scheduled maintenance membership. Pumping on that program follows the agreement schedule.
Think before you flush. Quilted or lotion-coated toilet paper asks septic bacteria to work overtime. Diapers, handy wipes (even when the package says flushable or septic safe), feminine products, contraceptive products, and cigarette butts do not degrade. They take up space in the tank.
Does it replace pumping?
No. Adding bacteria does not replace septic tank pumping. Just Flush is a maintenance product, not a substitute for a pump-out.
Use the time-to-pump table when you need the interval for a tank size and household size.
Septic tank bacteria questions
Q: Should I add bacteria to my septic tank?
A: Yes. BBB Septic recommends a monthly introduction of bacteria because chlorine and household cleaners kill the bacteria the tank needs. Flush one Just Flush bag once a month. That does not replace pumping.
Q: How do I add bacteria to a septic tank?
A: Flush one water-soluble Just Flush bag once a month. A monthly dose holds up better than a yearly dose, which can die off as chemical inflow continues. The Preferred Customer Program can put maintenance on a schedule.
Q: Do septic probiotics replace pumping?
A: No. Septic probiotics and Just Flush do not replace pumping. Use the time-to-pump table for the interval by tank size and household size. Call (479) 271-0058 to schedule septic tank pumping.