This issue may seem small, but it can cause a lot of confusion. Let’s explore the answer together.

Whether to throw toilet paper into the toilet bowl or the trash bin is a topic that sparks much debate. Some people believe that flushing toilet paper down the toilet can cause clogging. Others think that toilet paper should be flushed to avoid bacteria growth, bad odors, and pollution.

So, which choice is the right one?

In reality, this depends on several factors such as the type of toilet paper used, the flushing power of the toilet, and the drainage and waste disposal system.

First, if the toilet has strong flushing power, flushing toilet paper is easier. The toilet paper will quickly dissolve and flow down without blocking the drain. Weak flushing power, however, can cause toilet paper to float and accumulate on the water surface, requiring multiple flushes to wash away the waste.

In cases of weak flushing, especially with squat toilets, it is best to dispose of toilet paper in the trash bin.

The drainage system in your area also plays an important role. If the drainage pipes are new and large enough, flushing toilet paper generally does not affect drainage or waste disposal. But if the pipes are old or narrow, the risk of clogging increases significantly if toilet paper is flushed.

You should also evaluate the toilet paper’s dissolvability. To test this, put a sheet of toilet paper in a bowl of water and stir with chopsticks. If it quickly dissolves, that type of toilet paper can safely be flushed.

Based on these factors, you can decide whether to throw toilet paper into the trash or flush it down the toilet after use.

If you must dispose of toilet paper in a trash bin, choose a bin with a lid to prevent odors and bacteria from spreading into the air, which can harm the environment and human health. Also, replace the trash bag regularly to maintain hygiene.

Remember, the toilet is not a trash bin. Avoid flushing the following items down the toilet to prevent difficult clogs:

• Wet wipes: Unlike toilet paper, wet wipes are made from tougher materials that do not dissolve in water. Flushing wet wipes can clog the drainage system.

• Dental floss: This fibrous material can tangle together and cause blockages. Flushing occasionally might be okay, but regular flushing of dental floss can lead to clogs.

• Cigarette butts: Made from synthetic fibers that do not decompose, cigarette butts absorb water and expand, causing blockages in pipes.