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If in doubt - don't pour it out!
Septic systems thrive on wastewater, but certain chemicals can cause major indigestion.  Flushing even small amounts of paints, solvents, thinners, nail polish remover and other common household compounds (or pouring them down the drain) can poison the organisms that break down organic material.

Laundry bleaches, toilet bowl cleaners and caustic drain openers can also slow the treatment process, allowing sewage to pass through without proper treatment.  And often, the chemicals themselves seep into the ground, sometimes contaminating wells or surface waters.

Septic systems cannot digest oils, grease and fat.  Poured down the sink or toilet, they congeal in pipes, sometimes plugging them.  Grease can also combine with detergents and flow into the drainage field where they may clog the soils.  Fats can form a blob in the top of the tank, and interfere with the biological activities taking place.  All oily waste should go out with the garbage.

Using your septic system to dispose of garbage is another no-no.  In-sink garbage disposals  ("Garberators") are unwelcome strains on the system.  Disposable diapers, tampons and their holders, condoms, wrappers and many other kinds of refuse can plug and impair septic systems.  If something doesn't break down naturally don't flush it into your septic tank.

Preparations marketed as septic tank cleaners, "starters", or "enhances" are of little value.  Some have led to the death of essential bacteria in the tank and others may flush septic solids into the drainage field.  At best these products are entirely unnecessary.