DECATUR TX RV PARK, WISE COUNTY TEXAS - MIMOSA VALLEY RV PARK
Let’s talk about toilet paper – a topic often overlooked until it runs low. However, diving into RV life brings it front and center. Initially, we all do the same: purchase the designated RV toilet paper for our campers to avoid clogs and protect our black tanks, despite its higher ‘RV price.’ This term refers to the markup on household supplies branded for RV use. But then, the revelation hits. We discover that septic-safe toilet paper might be a budget-friendly alternative. Prompted by curiosity, we find ourselves searching for the ‘best toilet paper for RVs’ online.
RV Toilet Paper Wars
Our simple search quickly unveils an overwhelming sea of opinions—too much, perhaps, with intense online debates to boot. On one side, there are RVers who adamantly advocate for RV-specific toilet paper as the only acceptable choice. On the opposite end, a laid-back group believes any regular toilet paper will do.
Off on a trip starting later today and found there’s only a few sheets of RV TP left in the RV. Tested Charmin and the stuff does not dissolve even after 30 seconds of shaking (and we use this for a septic system!)
That’s when the debate intensifies. Entering the fray are RVers who wouldn’t dream of flushing toilet paper down their RV toilets, opting instead to collect it in a wastebasket beside the toilet. It’s quite impressive that the complexities of human nature, something as mundane as toilet paper selection, lead to such fervent discussions. Above all, this reveals how even the topic of toilet paper can stir confusion and controversy among internet strangers.
Even if the toilet tissue for your RV hasn’t crossed your mind much, you might be intrigued by the depth of conflicting views on the matter. In this article, we aim to sift through the mix of information and misinformation swirling around RV toilet paper.
BUSTING COMMON RV TOILET PAPER MYTHS
MYTH #1: ANY TOILET PAPER IS SUITABLE FOR RV USE
You really don’t need “septic safe” TP because you don’t have a septic tank in your RV, you have a holding tank.
– An example of the many forms of this mythi on iRV2 Forums
There is no need for it to break down like in a septic system. It will all come out when you empty your black tank. Use plenty of water when flushing out the tank.
A widespread myth suggests that the type of toilet paper used in an RV doesn’t matter, reasoning that it all ends up flushed into the black tank and then dumped. But here’s the crucial detail: RV toilets flush into a holding tank, not directly into a sewer system. Toilet paper that fails to dissolve into small pieces can cause clumps to accumulate in the black tank. These clumps have the potential of bottlenecking at the drain hole of the tank. Non-dissolving toilet paper can quickly lead to a clogged tank, a situation no one wants to face. It’s clear, then, that not all toilet paper is suitable for RV use—it must dissolve quickly and thoroughly to avoid problems.”
MYTH #2: RV-SPECIFIC TOILET PAPER IS THE ONLY SAFE OPTION
RV toilet paper, typically single-ply, is designed for rapid breakdown when wet, and most brands excel in this regard. However, its thinness means you might end up using more, even though it tends to be less soft and can feel rough. Additionally, RV and boat toilet paper usually cost about twice as much as standard household toilet paper. Finding RV toilet paper can also be a challenge on the road, adding to the inconvenience.
A viable alternative is toilet paper labeled as septic-safe. It’s generally thicker, softer, and more readily available than its RV-specific counterpart. Yet, despite being marketed as quick-dissolving, not all septic-safe toilet papers dissolve faster than regular household types. Caution is key, as dissolving rates can vary significantly.
MYTH #3: SEPTIC SAFE TOILET PAPER WON’T WORK AS WELL AS RV LABELED TOILET PAPER
Contrary to some beliefs, septic-safe toilet paper can be just as effective as RV-specific varieties, though performance varies. To identify the best options for your RV, consider two approaches: consulting with a certified RV technician or conducting your own rapid dissolvability test.
Conduct Your Own Dissolvability Test
Materials Needed:
- 4-5 medium-sized glass jars with lids
- Labels or painter’s tape for marking
- 3 sheets from each of 4 different toilet paper brands
- Water
Procedure:
- Label each jar with the brand you are testing. Trust me, you’ll be glad you labeled them later!
- Fill each jar about 2/3 with water.
- Put 3 sheets of each brand of toilet paper in the jar with a corresponding label.
- Swirl the jar a little. Don’t shake because the idea is to simulate what would happen to the toilet paper in your holding tank.
- Since toilet paper usually sits in the holding tank for days before the black tank is flushed, we’re going to simulate that. So just let all of the jars rest for 24 hours.
- Afterward, give each jar a gentle swirl. Observe and record which brands dissolved completely and which did not.
At the end of this experiment, you should have at least one or two brands that you can be confident aren’t going to wreak havoc with your RV plumbing.
BRANDS REPORTED TO BE SAFE FOR RVS
Below are some of the more popular RV and household brands of toilet paper to give you a head start.
RAPID-DISSOLVING RV TOILET PAPERS
These toilet papers are specifically designed for RVs and marine systems, offering quick dissolution to prevent clogs and maintain efficient waste management:
- Scott Rapid-Dissolving Toilet Paper: Engineered for fast breakdown, making it ideal for RVs, boats, and buses.
- Thetford Aqua-Soft Toilet Tissue: A trusted brand in RV accessories, offering toilet tissue that’s friendly to RV and marine systems.
- Camco RV & Marine Toilet Paper: Known for its biodegradable properties and quick dissolving capability.
- Freedom Living Septic Tank Safe Toilet Tissue: Safe for RVs and marine environments, this toilet paper dissolves quickly to avoid plumbing issues.
- Firebelly Outfitters RV Toilet Paper: Biodegradable and designed for rapid dissolution in RV and marine systems.
HOUSEHOLD BRANDS KNOWN TO BE RV-FRIENDLY
Many RVers have found that the household toilet paper brands below work just as well as RV-specific options, dissolving quickly and safely for use in RV sanitation systems. It’s important to note that formulas can change, so if one of the household brands looks good for your family and your wallet, you will want to perform a dissolvability test before using it, even if it’s listed below.
- Angel Soft: Offers a soft yet quick-dissolving bathroom tissue that’s been recognized for its RV compatibility.
- Kirkland Signature: Costco’s brand is known for being septic-safe and has been noted by the RV community for its effectiveness in RVs.
- Scott (Regular): A widely available brand that offers septic-safe options suitable for RV use.
- Seventh Generation: Known for its environmental friendliness and quick dissolution, making it a viable option for RVers.
- Great Value: Walmart’s brand provides an affordable, quick-dissolving solution for RV sanitation systems.
CONCLUSION: CHOOSING THE RIGHT TP FOR YOUR RV’S BLACK TANK
Ensuring your RV’s black tank operates smoothly for years involves careful selection of toilet tissue that dissolves quickly. Whether you opt for RV-specific brands or septic-safe alternatives, the key is to avoid products known for poor dissolvability. If uncertainty arises, a straightforward water test can illuminate which brands are safe for your RV, helping you steer clear of potential black tank issues. It’s a simple step towards maintaining peace of mind on your travels.by Lynne Fedorick
Discover More RV Sanitation Tips: For clear, actionable sanitation advice that simplifies RV maintenance, don’t miss the video below. Dive deeper into expert recommendations to keep your journey smooth and your RV in top condition.
