Extra soft toilet paper doesn't break down easily in the water, so it can stick to your pipes and cause damage over time. This causes clogs in your plumbing system and makes it much harder to keep things flowing smoothly in your home.
If you use 3 or 4-ply toilet paper, you're more likely to have a plumbing problem. This is because the extra layers of paper can cause a blockage in the pipes, which will result in sewage backing up into your home.
Cottonelle Ultra CleanCare offers a unique combination of strength and dissolvability, making it a preferred choice for many homeowners looking to maintain a healthy plumbing system.
Extensive tests show that when Charmin is used as intended in a properly functioning plumbing system, it shouldn't cause plumbing problems.
Cushy, 2-ply toilet paper usage in many Indy area households also creates a clog risk. This toilet tissue doesn't break down as easily as standard toilet paper, which leads to a clogged toilet.
Among the top contenders are pressure-assisted toilets from TOTO, Kohler, and American Standard. These brands offer models in both one-piece and two-piece toilet configurations, aiming to address the needs of most toilets, whether for a small bathroom or seeking a comfort height toilet.
You'll clog up your pipes if you use 3 or 4-ply toilet paper. The problem is the thickness of the paper. Thin toilet paper breaks down easily in the water and doesn't cause problems, but thicker toilet paper can get stuck on the sides of the pipe and block it up.
Scott 1000: This is an amazing 1-ply toilet paper that dissolves faster than the rest and still performs better even if you use more sheets. Angel Soft: For a 2-ply roll of T.P., this brand is effective at disintegrating quickly and offering a soft texture quality.
Cons: Price: Charmin Ultra Soft is often more expensive than other brands, which can be a drawback for budget-conscious consumers. Bulkiness: The larger size of Mega Rolls can be a problem for smaller bathrooms or toilet paper holders that are not designed to accommodate larger rolls.
Tops in our tests was Walmart's White Cloud Ultra Soft & Thick. It's soft to the touch, strong when you need it, and falls apart fast once tossed in the toilet. It's our only toilet paper pick and also a CR Best Buy.
Dish Soap
Although it may not seem like it, dish soap is incredibly handy at breaking down more than just food. This slippery substance can clear and lubricate the pipes, allowing the clog to pass through more easily.
A wider trapway can allow for more efficient waste removal, reducing the likelihood of clogs. Look for toilets with larger trapways, preferably 2 inches or larger. Fully glazed trapway: A fully glazed trapway means that the trapway has a smooth, glazed surface.
Low-ply – Single or two-ply paper is thinner and dissolves faster, reducing buildup in pipes. Septic-safe – This type is designed for septic systems but benefits all plumbing by breaking down easily, reducing the risk of blockages.
Substances like toilet paper and fecal matter will eventually dissolve within the toilet drain and clear the clog organically. However, blockages made from insoluble materials won't resolve on their own and typically require you to fix the clog manually or contact a professional before they worsen.
Another type of toilet paper that can block drains is quilted toilet paper. Quilted toilet paper is thicker than recycled toilet paper and has a lot of texture to it. This type of toilet paper can also become clogged in your drain if it isn't flushed properly.
Use white, unscented toilet paper. Avoid "ultra soft" or "ultra strong" products, they are overly processed with chlorine and formaldehyde. Use a basic toilet paper such as Angel Soft, Scott or 7th Generation.
Ultimately, Charmin still sends trees from invaluable forests like the boreal to an ignoble fate in our bathrooms, perpetuating a highly destructive, dangerous tree-to-toilet pipeline.
The more expensive toilet paper brands tend to focus on providing a softer and more luxurious feel, as well as better absorbency. The durability of the paper typically results in less usage per use too, contributing to its overall value.
The Angel Soft Double toilet paper is near the upper echelon of products for its all-around good performance. However, note that it tops the chart in our dissolve metric.
Be Mindful of Thick or Cotton-Based Toilet Paper
Three-ply and cotton-based products may feel luxurious, but they don't disintegrate as quickly as traditional single-ply paper, leading to more frequent clogs.
Toilet paper is designed to be flushable, and there's no evidence to suggest that septic systems struggle to filter out standard toilet paper. However, excessive flushing can lead to plumbing problems, regardless of the brand. If Costco toilet paper is your preference, feel free to continue using it.
Yes. Angel Soft® toilet paper is safe for well-maintained septic and sewer systems.
Common Causes of Blocked Drains
Hair, soap scum, and small objects like jewellery can accumulate over time, creating clogs in bathroom sinks and showers. In kitchen sinks, food particles, grease, and oil are frequent culprits.
The Best Toilet Paper For Your Drains
Regular toilet paper, when used responsibly, is generally safe for most plumbing systems. However bamboo or recycled toilet paper both offer a sustainable choice with better dissolvability and reduced environmental impact.