Plumbers strongly advise against flushing ultra-plush, 3-ply, or heavily quilted toilet papers (such as Charmin Ultra Soft/Strong and Kirkland Signature). These premium, highly absorbent brands are designed to be thick and durable, meaning they dissolve slowly and are notorious for forming stubborn clogs in pipes and septic systems.
The best toilet paper that won't clog pipes breaks down quickly in water and doesn't leave heavy paper clumps behind. Top clog-safe choices include 1-ply tissues, recycled papers, and specialized rapid-dissolving brands, which are excellent for delicate or older plumbing systems.
Many traditional Amish communities consider manufactured toilet paper an unnecessary luxury and use resource-saving alternatives instead. In outhouses, families often repurpose old newspapers, magazine pages, or catalogs (like the Sears and Roebuck catalog). To make the paper soft enough to use, they crumple it vigorously multiple times.
Plumbers often advise against using Charmin toilet paper because it is known for being particularly thick and plush, which can lead to clogs in plumbing systems.
Angel Soft® toilet paper is septic safe and designed to break down easily, making it a reliable choice for well-maintained septic and sewer systems. Each 2-ply toilet paper roll provides softness and strength, while still being safe for standard septic tanks and properly maintained systems.
Most plumbers recommend 1-ply or 2-ply toilet paper that breaks down quickly in water. Look for options labeled “septic safe” or “rapid-dissolving”—these reduce the risk of buildup in your pipes and are better for both standard and older plumbing systems.
The most advanced washlets can mix the water jet with soap for an improved cleaning process. The washlet can replace toilet paper completely, but many users opt to use both wash and paper in combination—although use of paper may be omitted for cleaning of the vulva.
Cottonelle® Toilet Paper is septic-safe, sewer-safe and made with fibers that are 100% plant-based.
Around 70% of the world doesn't rely on toilet paper in the way we do, turning to water before tissue.
Look for labeling like elementally chlorine-free (ECF) or totally chlorine-free (TCF). PFAS-free toilet paper is best for your health and water safety. Choose plastic-free packaging and sustainable materials like bamboo or recycled paper.
Muslims use water instead of, or in addition to, toilet paper to clean themselves after using the restroom. This practice, called Istinja, is rooted in Islamic hygiene and purity laws.
Amish wedding nights prioritize community, tradition, and practicality over the modern idea of a private honeymoon. On their wedding night, the bride and groom typically return to the bride’s parents' home, where the newlyweds must wake up early the next morning to help clean the house after the large celebration.
Other ways of wiping before the invention of toilet paper
Early North American settlers used corn cobs. They were abundant, they were soft and they were easy to handle. Sailors used something called a 'tow rag'. A tow rag was a long piece of frayed rope that dangled in the water.
Gynecologists recommend choosing white, unscented, and unbleached toilet paper to maintain vaginal health. To prevent irritation, burning, or recurrent infections, doctors suggest avoiding heavily dyed, fragranced, or "ultra-soft" papers that leave behind lint.
Caboo toilet paper uses plastic free packaging and is septic safe, chemical free, biodegradable, hypoallergenic, BPA-free, fragrance free, paraben free, elemental chlorine free, eco friendly, earth friendly, and non-GMO project verified.
Ultra-Soft or Plush Toilet Paper
Ultra-soft varieties are often thick and don't dissolve easily. They can clog pipes and contribute to buildup over time, especially in homes with smaller or older pipes. If you're experiencing frequent clogs, it might be time to switch to a more plumbing-friendly toilet paper.
Yes, an estimated 70% of the world does not use dry toilet paper to wipe. Instead, many cultures across Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Europe prioritize washing with water.
Reel Bamboo Toilet Paper (24-ct)
While bamboo toilet paper is highly praised for its eco-friendliness, it has a few drawbacks. Key downsides include a higher upfront cost, limited in-store availability, potential issues with greenwashing, and varying levels of softness.
Goldstein, wet wipes should never, ever be used. Even moist towelettes are a no-go. Instead, your best options are toilet paper and bidets, and Dr. Goldstein is an advocate of the latter.
In China, the primary method of cleaning is toilet paper rather than water. Chinese people commonly carry their own small packets of facial tissues or wet wipes, as many public restrooms do not provide toilet paper. Used paper is typically placed in a trash bin rather than flushed to avoid pipe clogs.
To prevent plumbing blockages, switch to 1-ply or fast-dissolving/septic-safe toilet paper. These options break down rapidly in water, protecting older pipes and low-flow toilets from clogs.
Europeans primarily use toilet paper, but they heavily supplement or enhance it with water for superior hygiene. In many countries, bidet fixtures, bidet showers, or wet wipes are utilized to clean up before drying with paper.
Septic-Safe: Cottonelle® wipes are plumber-approved and septic-safe. They also start to break down immediately after flushing.