Is Your Toilet Paper Wrecking Your Plumbing?
It’s not exactly dinner table conversation, but we need to talk about toilet paper.
If you’re dealing with slow drains, surprise backups, or septic issues, your choice of toilet paper could be part of the problem. It sounds like a stretch—but trust us, we’ve pulled enough “luxury” paper wads out of pipes to know better.
Here’s what you should know before you flush.
Why Toilet Paper Quality Actually Matters
Most folks think softness and strength are all that matter. But there’s another factor that rarely gets considered: how well it breaks down once it’s flushed.
Some toilet paper dissolves quickly and clears the system just fine. Others? They hang around. They clog things. They quietly build up until you’ve got a problem on your hands—and maybe on your floor.
What to Look for
Breakdown Speed
The faster your toilet paper dissolves in water, the less likely it is to cause trouble. Especially if you’re on a septic system or have older plumbing.
Skip the Chlorine
Chlorine-bleached paper doesn’t just affect the environment. It also messes with the good bacteria in your septic tank—the ones responsible for breaking things down. Go chlorine-free when you can.
Keep It Simple on Ply Count
Two-ply is usually the sweet spot. It’s comfortable without being too bulky. Anything more tends to stick around longer than it should.
Eco-Friendly Options Help
Recycled paper or bamboo-based rolls tend to break down more easily, and they’re gentler on your plumbing. Bonus: they’re also better for the environment.
What to Avoid
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Flushable wipes – They don’t dissolve like TP. Not even close. They’re one of the top reasons we get emergency calls.
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Overly thick, quilted paper – Comfort’s great, but not when it causes clogs.
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Ultra-soft stuff that barely breaks down – If it takes a long time to dissolve in a glass of water, it’ll take even longer in your pipes.
The Bottom Line
Your plumbing doesn’t care how soft your toilet paper is—it just wants it gone. If you’re dealing with frequent clogs, high water bills, or a cranky septic tank, switching paper might actually help.
And if you’ve already got a problem on your hands? Call My Georgia Plumber. We’ll get you sorted—and maybe recommend a better brand while we’re at it.
No pressure. No judgment. Just honest help.
Need a second opinion (or a clean-out)? Give us a call at 770-592-0081.
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