Is it OK to use regular toilet paper in an RV?

Using regular household toilet paper in an RV is perfectly fine in most cases. RV plumbing systems are designed to handle toilet paper just like residential plumbing. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind when choosing toilet paper for RV use.

Can you flush toilet paper in an RV?

Yes, you can flush toilet paper in an RV holding tank system. RV holding tanks are designed to handle human waste and toilet paper.

Most RVs have a two-tank system – a gray water tank for wastewater from sinks and showers, and a black water tank for sewage from the toilet. The black water tank can handle toilet paper just like a residential septic system.

It‘s important not to flush anything other than human waste and toilet paper down an RV toilet. Items like paper towels, wipes, feminine hygiene products, diapers, cigarette butts, and food should go in the trash, not down the toilet.

What kind of toilet paper should you use in an RV?

You can use regular toilet paper in an RV. Look for toilet paper that is:

• Septic safe: Avoid toilet papers with dyes, fragrances, and other additives that could clog pipes or damage tank valves. Look for "septic safe" on the packaging.

• Rapidly dissolving: Choose a soft, fast-dissolving toilet paper that breaks down quickly in water. This helps prevent clogs and buildup.

• Lint-free: Lint can accumulate in tanks and clog valves. Opt for a strong, lint-free toilet paper.

• RV-specific (optional): There are toilet papers made specifically for RV use that dissolve rapidly and prevent clogs. Brands like Thetford and Camco are designed for RVs.

Do you have to use RV toilet paper?

You don‘t have to use specialized RV toilet paper. Regular household toilet paper works fine as long as it‘s septic safe and dissolves rapidly.

However, RV-specific toilet paper is optimized for use in holding tank systems. The main advantages of RV toilet paper are:

• Faster dissolving: RV toilet papers are designed to dissolve rapidly to prevent clogs.

• Specially engineered for tanks: The papers are engineered not to cling to tank walls or snag in valves.

• Better absorption: RV toilet papers are very absorbent to control odor.

• Softer feel: RV papers are often softer for comfort.

If you already have a brand you like that‘s septic-safe, there‘s no need to switch. But RV-specific toilet paper can be a smart option for many RVers.

What toilet paper breaks down the fastest?

The fastest dissolving toilet papers are typically made of 100% bamboo or alternative plant fibers like wheat straw, rather than wood pulp.

• Bamboo toilet paper dissolves the quickest. The bamboo fibers don‘t cling together like wood fibers.

• Wheat grass or sugarcane pulp toilet papers also dissolve very rapidly.

• 100% recycled paper that contains no virgin fibers or additives can also break down very quickly.

Look for toilet papers that are 2-ply or less, with a thin, low-density construction. Thinner papers dissolve faster. Avoid scented, dyed, or ultra-soft toilet papers, as these can dissolve more slowly.

Some top fast-dissolving options are Caboo, Bim Bam Boo, and Ecoleaf. Always do a flush test with a new paper to see how quickly it dissolves.

Tips for choosing an RV toilet paper

• Opt for a major brand that specifies "RV safe" or "septic safe" on the packaging.

• Look for a 2-ply paper that feels sturdy but dissolves rapidly.

• Avoid adding RV toilet paper additives or treatments, as these can damage tank valves.

• Consider an RV-specific brand designed not to snag in valves.

• If you have a sensitive septic system, choose 100% bamboo paper.

• Do a flush test by placing a few sheets in a glass of water to see how fast they break down.

• Buy RV toilet paper in bulk packs for convenience. A 45 or 96 roll pack will last a long time.

How much toilet paper should you use in an RV?

Use toilet paper moderately in your RV. A general rule of thumb is:

• 2-4 sheets per person, per use is plenty for an RV toilet.

• Fold or wad the paper rather than using long strips.

• Never use more than 6 sheets per flush.

It‘s important to use toilet paper conservatively. RV black water tanks have limited capacity, and overusing tissue can lead to clogs. Be mindful of tank levels and empty appropriately.

Troubleshooting clogs from toilet paper

Clogs from toilet paper in an RV black water tank are rare if you use an appropriate paper. But if clogs do occur:

• Use a tank treatment like Happy Campers Holding Tank Treatment to break down paper and waste. Simply pour into the tank and flush.

• Increase water volume by holding down the flush lever for 5-10 seconds to fully clear waste.

• Use a tank wand to manually dislodge clogs and paper buildup from tank walls.

• As a last resort, have the tank pumped out by a professional.

Prevention is key. Use toilet paper sparingly, go for rapidly dissolving brands, and regularly empty the tank.

Storing toilet paper in an RV

To keep toilet paper clean and dry in an RV:

• Store rolls in a bathroom cabinet, closet, or dedicated TP holder.

• For kitchen or tabletop storage, use an RV toilet paper dispenser or storage caddy.

• Wrap a few rolls in a plastic bag or waterproof case to keep them dry.

• If space is very tight, store rolls vertically in a tall, narrow bin or canister.

• Always put rolls away; don‘t leave them out in the bathroom.

Proper storage prevents moisture damage and keeps your TP clean and fresh.

Using the right toilet paper is important for proper operation of RV waste systems. Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about choosing toilet paper for an RV:

Can you use regular toilet paper in an RV?

Yes, you can use regular household toilet paper in an RV holding tank system. Look for paper that is septic safe, dissolves quickly, and is lint-free. Special RV toilet papers optimized for holding tanks are also fine to use.

Is Charmin or Cottonelle toilet paper OK for RVs?

Yes, major brands like Charmin and Cottonelle are safe RV toilet papers. Both are designed to be septic-safe and break down rapidly to prevent clogs. Cottonelle Ultra CleanCare is a great RV option – it dissolves quickly and helps keep tanks clean.

Can you use Angel Soft toilet paper in an RV?

Yes, Angel Soft is an approved toilet paper for RV use. It is septic safe and engineered not to clog pipes. The dual-ply paper disintegrates rapidly to keep black tanks clear. Just avoid scented varieties, which can slow dissolution.

What should you not flush down an RV toilet?

Never flush paper towels, napkins, tissues, wet wipes, feminine products, diapers, cigarette butts, food waste, grease, or harsh chemicals down an RV toilet. These can clog tanks, damage equipment, and require expensive repairs. Only human waste and toilet paper should go in RV toilets.

Does Scott toilet paper dissolve in RV holding tanks?

Yes, standard Scott toilet paper will dissolve in an RV holding tank. Scott paper is designed for use in septic systems and RV waste tanks. For best results, look for their rapid-dissolving 1-ply or septic-safe options. Avoid premium quilted and ultra-soft Scotts in RVs.

Is it bad to use too much toilet paper in an RV?

Yes, using excessive toilet paper can clog RV plumbing in several ways:

• Too much paper causes black tanks to fill quickly and require more frequent dumping.

• Thick wads of paper can get caught and cause clogs.

• Lots of paper fibers cause buildup on tank sensors and valves.

Use a reasonable amount – around 2-4 sheets folded per use. Never put more than 6 sheets into the RV toilet at once.

How often should you empty RV holding tanks?

As a general rule, empty gray and black water holding tanks every 2-3 weeks of use, and when tanks reach 1/3 to 1/2 full. This prevents clogs and backups. Empty tanks more often with heavy use or in hot weather. Letting tanks overfill is a major cause of RV plumbing issues.

Can you put toilet paper in an RV composting toilet?

No, do not put any toilet paper into a composting toilet. The paper will not break down properly and can clog the system. Instead, composting toilets require use of a separate grey water tank and liquid management system to handle toilet paper waste.

Proper dumping, cleaning, and maintenance helps keep RV holding tanks operating smoothly. Here are some top tips:

How often should an RV toilet be emptied?

Ideally, you should empty your RV holding tanks at least once every 2-3 weeks. For moderate to heavy usage, empty black tanks when they reach 50% capacity and gray tanks at 75% full. Never let tanks get completely full before dumping.

How do you empty RV holding tanks?

First, plug your RV sewer hose into the park dump station inlet. Then open the black tank valve first to drain all toilet waste. Close the valve when empty. Next, open the gray tank valve to flush out any remnants from the hose using sink/shower water. Add tank deodorizer as needed.

Are there signs it‘s time to empty RV holding tanks?

Signs it‘s time to empty RV holding tanks include:

• Black tank gauge reads 50% full or more

• Gray tank gauge reads 75% full or more

• Toilet is slow to flush or gurgles

• You can hear liquid sloshing in tanks as you drive

• Sewer odors entering the RV

What is the proper way to empty an RV holding tank?

To empty tanks properly:

1. Wear gloves and goggles for protection.

2. Attach sewer hose securely to outlet and dump station.

3. Open the black tank valve first and let it fully drain.

4. Close black tank valve and open gray tank valve to rinse hose.

5. Add tank deodorizer as needed through the toilet.

6. Rinse out the dump station area when finished.

How do you clean RV holding tank sensors?

To clean holding tank sensors:

• Add 2-3 cups of calcium lime rust remover to the black tank and fill with warm water. Drive for 15 minutes then drain.

• Use a wand through the toilet to scrub tank walls and break up debris.

• For gray tanks, add borax or washing soda and hot water. Drain after 30 minutes of driving.

• Wipe sensor probes clean with a soft cloth. Avoid scratching.

What chemicals help break down waste and paper in RV holding tanks?

The best holding tank treatments to break down waste and toilet paper are:

• Enzymes: Liquids like Happy Campers or Aqua-Kem eat solids and dissolve TP.

• Bacteria: Eco-Save and Xtreme help break down paper and waste using natural bacteria.

• Calcium lime rust removers: Help dissolve scale and buildup. Also cleans sensors.

• Laundry detergent: For gray tanks, helps clean soap scum and residue.

Always follow label instructions carefully to avoid damage. Do not mix different tank chemicals together.

Selecting the right RV toilet for your needs helps ensure proper sanitation and functionality when you‘re off the grid.

Types of RV Toilets

There are two main types of toilets used in RVs:

1. Cassette Toilet

• Self-contained unit with integrated waste holding tank. Tank removes for dumping.
• Simple gravity flush uses only a few ounces of water.
• Common in smaller RVs like camper vans.

2. Black Water System Toilet

• Connects directly to RV‘s central holding tank system.
• Uses regular flush water from RV‘s supply tank.
• Found in most traditional RV models.

Many new RV toilets utilize a powerful, water-efficient centrifugal flush.

Choosing an RV Toilet

Important factors when selecting an RV toilet:

• Bowl size and shape: Choose a comfortable size and design. Small spaces may need compact toilets.

• Water use per flush: Look for a high-efficiency low-flow flush of 1 pint or less.

• Pump vs. gravity flush: Pump flush offers more power but may require electricity.

• Plastic vs. porcelain: Plastic resists cracking but can scratch. Porcelain is more durable.

• Brand reliability: Stick with proven brands like Thetford and Dometic. Check warranties.

• Ease of installation: Ensure that replacement toilets will fit existing mountings and hookups.

Doing research helps find the perfect toilet for your RV lifestyle and plumbing system.

Maintaining an RV Toilet

To keep your RV toilet operating properly:

• Follow manufacturer instructions for lubricating or recalibrating flush mechanisms.

• Use RV cleaning wands and brushes designed for toilet bowls. Avoid abrasive cleaners.

• Use deodorizing treatments and RV holding tank chemicals as needed.

• Inspect seals annually and replace worn parts when leaks appear.

• For cassette toilets, clean and maintain the holding tank regularly per manufacturer guidelines.

Proper toilet maintenance helps prevent leaks, clogs, and unpleasant odors in your RV‘s bathroom.

Understanding how RV drainage plumbing works allows you to use the system properly and keep everything flowing smoothly.

How does an RV black water tank work?

The black water tank holds sewage waste from the toilet. An RV toilet drains into the black tank, where waste is stored until the tank is emptied at a dump station. Vents allow gases to escape while holding odors in when closed. Sensors indicate when the tank needs to be drained.

How does an RV gray water tank work?

The gray tank holds wastewater from sinks, showers, and drains. It does not connect to the toilet. Gray water drains directly into a sewer inlet or dump station. The gray tank has its own vents and sensors.

What is an RV macerator pump?

A macerator pump grinds and liquefies sewage waste, then pumps it through a small-diameter hose for longer runs to dump stations. Macerators allow RVs to empty tanks from further distances. They are useful for privately dumping tanks as needed.

How do RV sewer connections work?

RV drain outlet fittings connect sewer hoses to dump station inlets. The fittings attach using bayonet mounts, cam-lock couplings, or threaded connections. A tight seal is crucial to prevent leaks and spillage. Always secure sewer hose fittings properly.

How do RV holding tank levels work?

Holding tanks have monitors that use probe sensors to show level status. Sensors measure resistance across probes on tank walls, with less resistance indicating more water. They provide an estimate but can get fouled over time. Tank monitors should be cleaned regularly for best accuracy.

Tips for trouble-free RV sewer systems

• Use RV-safe toilet paper and cleaning chemicals.
• Empty tanks regularly and use treatments to break down waste.
• Avoid putting anything but human waste and toilet paper into toilets.
• Inspect seals and pipes regularly for leaks.
• Clean tank sensors as needed to ensure proper operation.
• Rinse the sewer outlet thoroughly when finished dumping.

Following proper protocols keeps an RV‘s plumbing and drainage system odor-free and clog-free. With routine care, your RV‘s toilet and sewer system will provide reliable function.