Is RV Toilet Paper Really Necessary?

Contributor

Conner Lund

Favorite Trip

Backpacking Ozark Trail

Home Base

Bowling Green, KY

Favorite RV

Winnebago Revel

About Contributor

Conner Lund is a Technical Content Writer. He has both hands-on experience and real-world knowledge. He’s an avid outdoorsman: camping, hiking, backpacking, mountain biking, kayaking, hunting, and fishing are all things he enjoys that you could find him doing on any given weekend. He loves to travel and see new places. He does most of his exploring and camping out of his overlanding truck with a rooftop tent.

The thought of having your own toilet at the campsite pushes many campers from tents to trailers. But with this luxury comes a new responsibility. That responsibility is to use toilet paper specifically formulated for campers–RV toilet paper. However, many new RVers naturally question whether they can use regular or septic-safe toilet paper in their camper. And what makes RV toilet paper different anyway?

In this article, we’ll discuss if you really need RV toilet paper, what septic-safe toilet paper is, and if you can flush regular toilet paper into an RV holding tank.

What Is RV Toilet Paper?

rv toilet paper
Photo by Camping World

RV-friendly toilet paper breaks down quickly to avoid clogging up your sewage system or holding tank. It is specially formulated for RV use and is RV septic tank safe, so it doesn’t compromise your plumbing system.

By disintegrating quickly, RV toilet paper is less likely to block the sensors inside your holding tank that tell you when it’s full. It also reduces the likelihood of clogging your RV sewer hose when you empty your holding tanks at a dump station. 


In other words, RV-friendly toilet paper makes maintaining your holding tanks much easier. It also helps you avoid embarrassing messes when dumping your RV so you can remain a happy camper throughout your RV adventures.

Is RV Toilet Paper Necessary?

The truth is yes. You do indeed need to use quick-dissolving RV toilet paper. If you don’t have tissue safe for RV use, you shouldn’t flush it into your RV’s sewage system.

Whether in a new or used motorhome, RV septic systems are somewhat delicate. They aren’t as robust as residential sewage systems. You must treat them more carefully than your residential bathroom or toilet. 

Be very mindful of what goes down your RV toilet. 

The last thing you want is your RV’s sewer system to have an issue while camping. Nobody will have much fun camping if the toilet doesn’t work. Start by learning how to operate and maintain an RV toilet to keep it working and smelling great.

And here’s a short list of things that should NOT be flushed down an RV toilet:

  • Baby wipes
  • Paper towels
  • Feminine hygiene products
  • A tank treatment that isn’t specifically formulated for RV use.
  • ANYTHING THAT ISN’T RV TOILET PAPER!

Can You Use Regular Toilet Paper in an RV?

use-rv-tp-how-to-operate-and-maintain-an-rv-toilet-02-2022
Photo by Virrage Images via Shutterstock

Some types of household toilet paper will disintegrate at similar rates to RV toilet paper, and many people have used non-RV toilet paper in their RVs without issue. But there is a risk.

RV enthusiasts Russ and Tina DeMaris say they’ve found that most conventional toilet paper is okay for RV use. They even developed an at-home test: 

  • Fill a jar with water, put a couple of sheets of your favorite brand of toilet paper inside, put the lid on, and shake it. 
  • If the TP starts to dissolve after a few seconds of vigorous shaking, it may be fine for RV use. If not, don’t use it!

If all you have is regular Angel Soft household toilet paper, it’s best to use a single-ply option and perform the test above before using it in your RV. Even if you’ve deemed it safe for RV use, use less than your typical amount. The more non-RV toilet paper you flush, the more likely you will experience clogs and other issues.

What If You Don’t Flush Toilet Paper in Your RV?

Additionally, some RVers avoid RV black tank issues by simply not flushing toilet paper. To do this hygienically, you’ll need a sealed waste bin in your RV bathroom dedicated to toilet paper disposal. 

If you take this approach, you can use your preferred toilet paper brand and thickness. You’ll just need to inform any RV guests about your ‘bathroom process’ so that non-RV toilet paper doesn’t accidentally get flushed into your holding tank.

Can You Use Septic-Safe Toilet Paper in An RV?

septic safe toilet paper in RV
Photo by Getty Images

Septic-safe toilet paper is designed for residential homes with an in-ground septic system. Like an RV, these sewage systems are delicate and require toilet paper that breaks down easily. It’s sold at grocery stores everywhere and at an affordable price, so you may wonder if you can use it in your RV.

Septic-safe toilet paper is safe for use in an RV waste system. It breaks down similarly to RV toilet paper so that it won’t clog your lines or gum up the tank sensors. However, septic-safe toilet paper has pros and cons compared to RV toilet paper.

RV Toilet Paper vs Septic Safe Toilet Paper

Septic-safe and RV toilet paper share many of the same qualities. Most importantly, they dissolve quickly. However, their dissolution rate and chemical makeup vary, so knowing all the facts is important before choosing.  

Septic-safe toilet paper is designed for residential use. It was developed for properties with an in-ground septic tank. This toilet paper breaks down easily and usually does not contain bleaches or dyes, which can harm the environment. 

RV toilet paper is made specifically for the RV industry. It dissolves quickly, so you never have to worry about clogging pipes or clogging waste tank sensors. 

Here’s a quick comparison table:

Septic-Safe Toilet PaperRV Toilet Paper
Easy to Attain
Cost Effective
More Options
Thinner
Rapid Dissolving
Higher Price
Thicker
May Contain Chemicals

Where To Buy RV Toilet Paper

Image from Camping World

There are plenty of RV toilet paper brands out there. Thetford and Camco RV toilet paper are two of the most popular, but they are far from your only choices. You can buy RV toilet paper at most RV camping stores and should be able to get it at any RV dealership or RV store. Camping World also sells RV toilet paper at our nationwide network of retail stores.

Another option is to buy RV toilet paper online and have it shipped to your preferred address. You can ship your order to a nearby post office to pick up your resupply and keep your full-time RV lifestyle rolling.

Several wet wipe products are also popular right now. Camping World does sell some of these wipes, but they shouldn’t be flushed. They do not disintegrate like RV toilet paper and can ruin your waste system.

A Few More RV Toilet Tips

Knowing how to use your RV toilet properly will make your road trips much more enjoyable. So here are a few more tips for healthy RV toilet use:

  • Use minimal TP. Even with RV-friendly and septic-safe toilet tissue, it’s a good idea to minimize how much you flush.
  • Don’t be shy with the water. Before going, fill the toilet bowl with water for 3-5 seconds. This fills your tank with plenty of fresh water and aids in a smoother dumping process.
  • Treat your tanks regularly. Use RV tank treatments after each RV trip to minimize odors, clean tank sensors, and remove remaining residue.
  • Open your roof vent and turn on the fan. This is a courtesy to yourself and your fellow campers. RVs are small spaces, and promoting airflow is essential to keeping your space fresh and enjoyable.

While non-RV products like Poo-Pourri should NOT be used in your RV toilet, candles and air fresheners are great options for keeping your space smelling fresh.


Here are a few more helpful resources: 

What is your preferred RV TP brand? And do you flush or go with the waste bin disposal approach? Let us know in the comments below!

  • Comment (99)
  • John Connaughton says:

    Mostly we use Angel Soft, had the RV for over 10 years, no issues. Early on I did a test dissolving a couple pieces in a glass of water. Went well, so we stayed with what we like, which is also cheaper. But, every time I dump black, I use a Johnny Chock to completely fill the black tank, so I get a lot of good flow out.

  • MR. RV says:

    We don’t even use our toilet, we removed it and placed a cap over the hole and we have a potty chair with a disposable bag that we use. It’s great! when you don’t need it you can fold it up and store it so you’ll have a lot of extra room in the bathroom! Then we can use whatever paper and wipes we want. No problem for over 20 years!

  • Emotions Org says:

    We are using eco toilet paper i.e made from bamboo and pure organic material…

  • Marti Parry says:

    We’re very beginning as far as camping trailers are concerned. We have some bamboo toilet paper from Costo that says it’s septic tank safe. The brand is Galaxy Green. Has anyone used this and is it safe?

  • Brian says:

    Members mark ultra premium bath tissue is labeled septic safe. We have been using it for quite a while in our septic system served home. Also, the stuff is actually very good at its job, comfortable and clean. So, I decided the water and shake test was in order. Stuff dissolved readily. This will be going in the RV.

  • BARRY /Cheri Bourassa says:

    Well. we have been full time on the road for about 10 years. Originally, we watched rv videos of ‘The RV Doctor’ who basically said if your toilet paper disintegrates when you put it in a jar of water, it is safe to use in your rv. We have done that and have used Scott (septic safe) paper for years and have never had a problem.

  • Keith Yoder says:

    We have been RVing for 25 years and have never had any waste tank problems. We use a rapid dissolving toilet paper and plenty of water in the black tank. We have never used any chemicals other than cleaning detergent in the black tank. It is not a septic tank, it is a large capacity, convenient chamber pot used to temporarily store human waste. We use a transparent elbow to monitor the discharge when we empty the tanks and flush with water until it runs clear. We then add a couple gallons of water and some detergent to clean the empty tank as we travel.

  • Laura Loveland says:

    Even with RV tp we seem to have problems. It is probably because we really do not know what we are doing for the most part AND when we finally figure it out we forget what we learned the next time we take Matilda out. Aahhhhh! My only suggestion is: buy long latex gloves for those learning curves. They make them in really nice colors nowadays and yes, do make them long! 🙂 Elbow length is better I know. My hubby just stands by and watches….well, he gags occasionally too! 🙂 RV tp a must yes, but for some of us so are long latex gloves! 🙂 Happy RVing!

  • Diane says:

    My husband uses the campground bathroom for bm’s whenever he can. I use our RV toilet and use the inexpensive Equate flushable wipes and dispose of them in a little lined covered trash can. Use them at home too. We leave our black tank valve closed and used organic Happy Camper s Odor Free Holding Tank Treatment and it works great. It is the holding tank treatment that is recommended the most by RV enthusiasts who have tried many different type of treatments. We have the clear platic ends to our black tank flush hose so we can see when the water is clear. We use the black tank flush valve on the outside of our RV and our black tank is always clean. We refill the black tank with about 8 gallons of water and put in Happy Camper to clean up the tank as we travel and get the enzymes started again. We use more during hot weather too. Do not breathe in the Happy Campers and clean your hands of any powder asap too. We use Happy Camper in our gray water tanks as well to keep away odors. We have a septic system at our home since 1980 and know to be careful what toilet tissue we use and we never flush anything but toilet paper and human waste down the toilet. We never use bleach or fabric softener in our washing machine.

  • Doug Kreitz says:

    The “dissolve test” noted above is the best way to determine if your TP is safe to use in your RV. If it holds together after vigorous shaking, don’t use it! Period.

  • Jeff says:

    “RV” toilet paper is absolutely unnecessary. This is a cash cow for the RV industry. Full time here since 2014. We have used Angel Soft as it’s degrade rate is better than most expensive RV paper. Also recommended is Costco Kirkland brand or Sams Memebers Mark. Regardless of paper, more importantly, is keeping your tanks flushed and cleaned regularly. Keep black tank closed and dump when at least 3/4!full. Use plenty of water when flushing. Don’t ever leave black tank gate valve open until ready to flush.

  • Garth Wilson says:

    Today I went to the Big Lots Chain Store. I picked up a Big Lots Premium Softness Bath tissue (TP)
    ( unscented). It has 12 double rolls for $4.95, and is listed as Septic Safe , on the package. So we’re going to give these a try this Camping Season. We’ll see how they work & report back.

  • Jim says:

    Been motorhoming for going on 40 years, on our 5th unit. Last 12 years staying out up to 3 months at a time. Never had a problem using the cheapest brand TP you are comfortable with. Recently been using Sam’s members mark for past 5 years. Be sure to use a good chemical and necessary water with black valve closed until nearly full.

  • Steve sllivan says:

    When at full hookups Buy a tank cleaning product called tank tornado ,easy to attach to back and gray tanks .When hooked to a garden hose it blast inside the tanks directly it removes all matter,and Cleans the tank level equipment takes 15 mins use it at the end of every trip

  • Franksontheroad says:

    I know this will gross a lot of people out, butcwe don’t put any paper down the toilet. We use whatever tp we want and keep a waste basket next to the toilet (this system works effectively in many countries around the world). It doesn’t stink or smell and we never have any issues with black tank sensors or draining.

  • Cindy says:

    I didn’t want to give up my big fluffy paper, so I just throw it away in a small lidded lined trash can in the bathroom and throw it away like any other trash. Just like you should do with any wet wipes you use.

  • Andrew says:

    We only use RV TP and chemical to closed black tank. But…. because we we trying to save water we still had “pancake” build up in the tank plugging the toilet. Use plenty of water ; no problems now.

  • Carrie says:

    Why is RV toilet paper considerably more expensive than regular toilet paper?

  • Chuck says:

    I’m in my RV at least 6 months out of the year, I have used septic safe toilet paper and never had a problem. I leave my black water valve closed and only dump when at least 2/3 full (or right before I store it)

  • TMax says:

    DUH Some TP tend to stick to the Black Tank and may not turn loose when flushing the tank. Depending on how much the system is used and where the TP has adhered to the tank your chance of paper build can(the key word is CAN or MAY) cause clogging. RV TP will dissolve and with proper flushing your Toidy should work good for many years.

    Ya use the old sears catalog and pays the price

  • Jeff says:

    Wee have been on the road seven years. We use Scott’s TP. We did the test suggested and have never had a problem. But Scott’s is the only one we found that worked.

  • Linda Valesquez says:

    We use Sam’s Club Members Mark Bath Tissue, Septic Safe in our 5th wheel. Breaks down easily. We have 2 stools in our rig with 2 black tanks. We’ve never had a problem.

  • Doug Kreitz says:

    The “dissolve test” noted above is the best way to determine if your TP is safe to use in your RV. If it holds together after vigorous shaking, don’t use it! Period. Many companies offer “septic safe” TP. Even if it says “septic safe”, test it.

  • John says:

    I use Scott’s paper
    I have never had an issue & been camping in RV for 21 years

  • Sandy says:

    We have used regular TP all our RV life (30+ years holidaying and living full time). But that being said we have also made a point of using Septo or some other form or septic tank enzimes. We have even boon docked (3 months on the desert circuit) using regular TP but as has been said use less, which you do when it doesn’t dissolve while your using it! When we dump our black water tank is like tea so yes everything is emulsified.

  • Mike says:

    Absolutely fiction! Although not all brands of toilet paper are safe for use in an RV the majority of brands are. The water jar test is the best method to test your favorite brand. Keep in mind that your sewage system and holding tanks are designed to be filled at least 2/3 before attempting to dump in order to properly flush the tanks. During this time if you are using holding tank chemicals that contain enzymes designed to break down waste most solids will be liquefied and that includes toilet paper. The only toilet paper you should see coming out of the tank is that which was recently used before dumping. NEVER flush wipes or other items down your toilet and never leave the valves open constantly for either the grey or black tanks when hooked up to a sewer hook-up. Doing so will cause issues with build-up of solids in the tanks that can lead to costly repairs.

  • SteveO says:

    In my experience – regular TP is just fine! I’ve had 2 motor homes, 2 trailers, and 3 truck campers over the last 35 years, and have used regular toilet paper all that time. Never once have I had a problem or even come close. I use the standard multi-pack from Costco both at home and in the RV. I’m not sure why people have problems – maybe my wife and I use less TP than others, or we wait to make sure the tank is at least half full before dumping (so we get a good flush). Maybe it’s because I am typically in sites that do not have sewer and that means I have to drive to the park’s dump (the sloshing while driving to the dump breaks up any globs of paper that might be present). I also use my RV tank cleanout whenever I can, and have modified my system so that I can divert my outside shower water into the RV cleanout inlet (allows me to pump into my cleanout even when not connected to city water). In any event, I have been seeing people talk about the importance of RV toilet paper for years, and I don’t believe them – and my experience, regular TP is just fine as long as you are sensible. Sorry for disagreeing with some of the above comments – but after 35 years of RV’ing I know I am not just dodging a bullet. As another person said – RV paper falls apart while using it, and it’s expensive (especially relative to Costco’s Kirkland brand). I plan to keep using that and let this debate go on for another 35 years… Maybe, rather than spend the extra money on RV TP, people should just think more about how to ensure your tank can be flushed better.

  • todd says:

    is septic safe the same as rv tp?

  • David Corfield says:

    We are all being hoodwinked by the RV toilet paper manufacturers.
    As long as you use lots of water, flush your black tank regularly, you should have no problems.
    One more thing, the “chemical” for your tanks RV parts places sell is a waste of time. As long as you use lots of water, flush your tanks regularly, you can do without the “blue chemical” & go back to regular toilet paper. Once a month I close all valves, drop a Tide laundry pod in each tank, fill & drain tanks, works great.

  • Judith Constance Ingalls-O'Keeffe, says:

    We have used the single ply Scott’s TP, using as little of it as possible. I also use a clear elbow so I can see what’s flowing out. I use chemicals religiously – and according to some folks, more than I need but the outflow is liquid and I also fill up the black tank about half full when I dump and add chemicals so that they get a chance to slosh around in the tank till I arrive at the next dump station.

  • Marty says:

    My wife and I full-time. I have done the shake test and the TP that I find most dissolvable is Angel Soft. We have had no issues with it.

  • Morty Tupperman says:

    Good article with some important information!

  • Susie says:

    My husband and I have been using Great Value Ultra Strong (septic safe) toilet paper for almost a year without any issues…knock on wood… I realize we are taking a chance but I performed that jar water shaking test and it breaks up pretty quickly.

  • Ric says:

    We use the best regular toilet paper money can buy and have for years. Here’s our trick. We NEVER flush it. We use doggy poop picker upper bags and put the “used” paper in the bag and then that bag goes into a plastic supermarket bag and then that goes into our regular plastic garbage bag. The plastic keeps things a bit sanitary .

  • Marcy Starnes says:

    if you would practice the disposal of TP like they do in South America or on some small sailing boats by placing it in the small garbage can next to the toilet you would not have a problem –

  • Donald N Wright says:

    If RV toilet paper breaks down quickly, would it be ok to use it when Backpacking, or an emergency “cat hole”?

  • Shelagh Haynes says:

    We use Costco toilet paper and never put it down the toilet! Have a small lidded garbage can. Never had a problem in well over 20 years. Majority of our long time RV friends do the same

  • William M Ogden says:

    Install toilet that is compatable with bidet,some plumbing work is required ,amount of t.p. generated will be nill, your backside will approve.

  • Lorraine says:

    You can use Toilet paper for septic systems. this is biodegradable and breaks down easily. We buy Angel Toilet Paper and it says Septic Safe. Can get great deals in grocery stores for this. ALWAYS LOOK FOR SEPTIC SAFE TOILET PAPER.
    Did you also know that to clean your tank to take one capful of Calgon and one cup of powdered detergent and flush that down you tank after clearing the black tank. The Calgon is a water softener and the detergent helps clean. Since doing this our tanks don’t fill as fast because it is being flushed clean.

  • Ric says:

    Having owned a Roto Rooter business for many years I have seen almost everything and can say that most TP will breakdown fairly well. DO NOT use Charmin! It does not breakdown. We use Kirkland (Costco) and have had no problems with our septic system or RV. We also use Odorlor chemical and it does a great job of breaking down waste and containing odors.

  • Landyachty says:

    We are full time sense 1997. Boondock a lot and have owned three RVs in this time frame. We use angel soft and have never had a problem. If the tp passes the resolve test use it. RV tp is bunk from the dealers.

  • Dale says:

    IMO, RV TP is a kimik to get you to buy more for for less. I use septic safe TP and lots of water and have had no issues.

  • Jim Luther says:

    My wife is a fan of “wipes”. We do use them but never flush them. Instead we keep a roll of doggy poo back in the bathroom. Used wipes are place in a doggie bag , sealed and put in the bathroom trash can for disposal later.

  • Cindy says:

    I love my Cottonelle and I couldn’t possibly give it up. That’s why I throw it in a small lined covered trash can next to the toilet, and throw it out like any other trash.

  • Gregg Hinkle says:

    I use Costco Kirkland toilet paper in my coach. It is septic safe and I never had an issue

  • Dan says:

    I’ve been using Charmin in my RV for almost 30 years and have never had a problem. Not a single plug up. And that’s with a wife and 4 kids. The RV stuff is worthless in terms of performance and not worth the price.

  • Tommy Molnar says:

    We don’t use RV specific toilet paper. That stuff is just too thin and akin to wiping with your bare hand. Yup. We DO use the cheaper two ply stuff (that we’d never use at home!) and have never had a problem. We have a ‘receptacle’ next to the loo for non-messy paper, and this goes a long way toward keeping us out of the dreaded “pyramid” issue.

  • B says:

    We put a bidet in our camper. Bought off Amazon – it just attaches with the seat hardware. Plumbing was a little challenging (tapping into PEX line). We use way less toilet paper. We have them on our toilets at home too. The water isn’t heated so I can be a little startling when the water is especially cold.

  • Daniel Voyer says:

    We put an air tight waste basket by the toilet and put all our used toilet paper in it as we do our duty. This way, we can use good quality TP without paying extra for RV TP. The TP then goes out with regular garbage. It is not as gross as it sounds! In any event, my black water tank is easy to dump because it contains very little TP. Just something I learned in 25 years as an RVer.

  • Carol Sowa says:

    I took a couple of sheets of our RV toilet paper and 1 ply Scott’s put them both is a jar and the Scott’s dissolved far more quickly than the RV. We have been camping for 15 + years and have never had a problem with Scott’s.

  • Dan says:

    I’m a fan of Scott’s Septic Safe paper and Scott’s Septic Safe moist wipes.
    I am full-timing in my Mallard M33 and have not had any issues with both of these products. I leave my valve closed and dump it once a week.
    Like other on here I have a clear elbow to view the waste to ensure proper dump flow and to ensure my chemicals are breaking everything down properly.

    I am skeptical of anything that does not display or advertise as septic safe.

  • Steve W says:

    If you must use “wipes” (post-toilet tissue cleaning), have a small waste bin lined w/plastic bag to throw used wipe into, then out with trash. Wipes will clog your black tank, just as it will increase the cost of pumping out your home septic system as the wipes must be removed for trash pickup. Pumpers will not pump! Wipes are bad news for city waste plants too and clog the sewer system. Learned the expensive hard way.

  • Jim says:

    Use RV paper or you will come to see us to un plug your toilet system, an RV tech

  • Sandra says:

    With RV TOILET PAPER we use more and it does not work as well for the job. It is a hassle it is so thin. At home we use cottonel. Has anyone used that in their RV?

  • Hi John!

    I personally use whatever toilet paper I desire in my travel trailer, but I dispose of it in a waste bin instead of down the toilet. We’ve seen far too many clogs related to non-RV toilet paper, which is why we recommend it!

  • John says:

    I’ve been using household toilet paper for over 25 years in all of the RVs I have owned. With zero problems. The discharge pipes are very similar in size to the pipes in your home. I’ve never had anything ever plug up.

  • Samuel Micek says:

    We have been glamping for yrs, and the Past 3years we have been Full Time RVers, No Problems, but we also use a chemical to help with the process of break down for All Solids. We have used cottenl and other brands, as long as they say they are Septic Safe.

  • Camperbuddy says:

    Try Scotts, it’s 2 ply and seems better than some of the other rv paper.

  • Mary says:

    Scot RV tissue is available at Walmart or AZN and it holds together until it’s in the tank

  • Gene Treants says:

    Sandra, after years of using Scot’s single ply in the RV (and at home in our septic system), we’ve had no problems and found it works well.

  • Anonymous says:

    We use Scotts toilet paper that says septic tank safe you can buy this at any super market. We been using this for the last four years and never had a problem.

  • Brad says:

    We’ve been full time for 7 years, NEVER used RV toilet paper, NEVER a problem.

  • Kate says:

    Scott makes an RV toilet paper that is thicker

  • Kirk R Shores says:

    Absolutely NOT..! I’ve been using Northern tissue for 17 years in 3 different class A motor homes and have never had a problem. Like others I keep the black water closed until about 1/2 to 3/4 full then empty it. This way it never dries out in the holding tank and always enough liquid to empty completely.
    Once empty I put approximately 5 gal of water with chemicals in the empty tank and I’m ready to go. I also always flush the tank once empty to be sure it is clean prior to adding water and chemicals to the black water tank.

  • Roger says:

    Not only does RV toilet paper dissolve very quickly, but because it does, then it is unlikely for it to get snared on the sensors that monitor the fullness of the tank. Using the wrong paper may result in a false “full” reading. However, if this ever does happen, you can usually determine the level of the effluent by shining a flashlight into the toilet while while flush pedal is depressed. Also, we really don’t want to overload campground septic systems with paper products that are slow to liquidy.

  • Charlene Hodson says:

    We use Scott brand RV toilet paper. It is stronger than some of the others.

  • Donna Barnett says:

    You know, I was using regular TP (not RV type) and I have a bagged garbage can in the shower – we don’t use the shower, so put anywhere near toilet), and I put #1 used tp TP in the garbage. We take it out every morning. #2 I was flushing, but that wasn’t often. (maybe once a day..) we mostly use the Bathhouse for that! But we didn’t have any trouble. But like I said, it wasn’t much put in the drain. If you dont like the idea of putting in a trash bag and dumping it, I would suggest using Camper TP. If it’s not working enough, then use the wipes and put those in the trash!
    We also are not Full timers (wish we were), so we aren’t living in and only go camping (4-7 days) about 3-4 times a year.

  • Chuck says:

    According to consumer report on toilet paper discentagrating, Kirkland from costco comes in third place. “RV” brands are really expensive to do the same thing

  • Carl Reed says:

    No, but we have used Angel Soft with no problem. Our sewer treatment guy told us to use it in our home because it dissolves easily.

  • bill says:

    Used the same as you, no problem as it dissolves quite rapidly and has a good thickness.

  • Edward Cones says:

    Yes, we used Cottonelle, and it did create a minor blockage at the drain. it was easily cleared, but it likely would have gotten worse. We use Single ply Scott 1000, and it’s worked fine.

  • Tina m Kavanagh says:

    I found Scott toilet paper has a quick dissolving rv tp that is close in quality to cottenelle. I buy it by the case on amazon

  • Katherine C Trowbridge says:

    We use Scott’s brand RV toilet paper, sold at Walmart. It’s a much better toilet paper than the other brands.

  • Marlene says:

    Cottonelle sells rv toilet paper. That’s what we use. We buy it at Walmart in their rv supply section.

  • April Gabel says:

    We use Cottonelle now and have always used household TP in our RV and never had a problem. The key is prepping the tank with water and chemical. Works great!

  • Cindy says:

    I love Cottonelle. I throw it in a small covered lined trash can right next to the toilet and throw it away like any other trash. I couldn’t give it up.

  • Robert says:

    Yes use Scott tp its thin like the rv paper and works good

  • DAWN LEGIER CORE says:

    That’s what we use in our RV. Just be mindful that you put enough water with every single flush!

  • JAY TIBBLES says:

    This is pne of the areas where there is a LOT of conflicting opinions. I ALMOST switched to RV paper. I discovered that my RV tenant was afraid to use too much water so she was not making sure the paper got thoroughly wet and had cleared the ‘throat’ of the toilet. i.e. actually got into the holding tank. If we were ‘boondocking’ the use of water is restricted but not when you are in full hookup. ANY toilet paper that is barely we then allowed to dry will form a ‘hockey puck’.

    When in full hookup you still want the black tank valve CLOSED. This way ALL ‘solids’ will start dissolving. The chemicals you add only work with the valve closed. If you leave tthe valve open you are treating the park septic system or sewer. I invested in two clear elbows so I can observe the effluent (junk coming out). My goal is to have only tea colored liquid being dumped because all the solids have dissolved.

    Many people use ‘septic safe’ toilet paper. The RV black water tank is essentially a small septic tank.

  • Annette black says:

    I’m in an RV but I’m permanent! Connected to city sewer! Can I use regular toilet paoer

  • Wade Thiel says:

    Hi Sandra, generally, it’s not smart to use regular toilet paper in an RV. Go by the brands or types of toilet paper suggested in your RV’s owner’s manual.

  • RVpal says:

    NO! RV toilet paper is designed to break down quickly inside your holding tank so that you can get it flushed out of your holding tank. Being hooked up to city sewer has nothing to do with the problem. Prison or you should not leave your RV tank valve open. You should close it and use the toilet until the tank is near full and then pull the dump handle and let it all go out at one time. If you do not do this you will develop a pile of sewage inside of the tank right underneath the toilet.

  • Norman says:

    It is necessary to use RV toilet paper to prevent clogging discharge valves. It is also necessary to shut the black tank discharge valve and then drain it when full, it needs fluid to flush out the solid waste otherwise you’ll end up with a very clogged up tank.

  • Princess Kelea says:

    What brand?

  • Bob k says:

    You won’t think its disgusting once you have to replace a plugged valve with crap and paper.

  • Irene says:

    I agree

  • Bill Evans says:

    We have a fellow camper that does something similar. After dumping the black water, he dumps the leftover ice and water from his cooler to slosh around on the drive home. The ice acts as a cleaner, scrubbing debris off tank walls. When he gets home, he dumps it into his septic tank.

  • Kirk Shores says:

    You are right on Jeff..!! I agree with you 100% as I’ve been RVing for 21 years and never had a problem using Northern 3 ply tissue….forget that other 1 or 2 ply junk.
    Follow Jeff’s comments and you will never have a problem.

  • Joe says:

    Disgusting.

  • Jodi says:

    We do use RV tp. But we have had the sensor get “stuck” in the full position. Our remedy was to dump the black water after our campground stay. Refill with clean water, leaving the water to slosh around on the trip home. Once home, dump water in the field beside the barn (we are farmers ). I, for one, was very surprised at the amount of “stuff” that was in the once clean water.

    They also make a long nozzled water jet that you stick down the opened toilet. It’s used to flush the walls of the tank too. But again, we had the best luck with just refilling with clean water, and letting the ride home do the rest.

  • stuart strumeier says:

    Scotts has septic safe toilet paper in the supermarket that is exactly the same and twice the amount as the Scott RV paper. Its all marketing.

  • TheStug says:

    We did the water jar test many years ago with Charmin Ultrasoft, and Thetford RV/Marine. With just a couple of shakes, the Charmin dissolved into a milky cloud. The Thetford paper practically refused to break up, even after much more vigorous shaking, letting it rest for a half hour, and shaking again.
    Needless to say we have been using Charmin Ultrasoft ever since, with no issues ever. I do recommend the jar of water test before choosing “any” TP for your RV (even RV types), and do rinse your black tank out with fresh water as part of your regular maintenance routines.

    I think we all understand why Campingworld wants you to use RV TP (because they sell it of course), but the truth is that there are “Septic Safe” TP choices that are just as good (and in some cases better) than RV TP. Sorry CampingWorld.

  • Bill Johnson says:

    We do the same thing and we throw the bag out every day no smell with scented bags.

  • Gary J Williams says:

    I agree with the concept “If it hasn’t gone into your mouth don’t put it in the toilet!” That’s the concept for boat heads and is used a lot in Europe and Mexico where sewage systems aren’t as robust as in Canada or USA. We keep a plastic bagged waste basket near the RV toilet, fold the to paper over on itself and dispose of bag daily in garbage. No need to worry about blockage from to or wipes and you don’t have to struggle with that thin, expensive RV to.

  • Jeff Stephens says:

    I concur. We’ve used Charmin Ultrasoft for at least 5 years without a problem. We also use Walex Bio Pak toilet chemicals. I believe the enzymes supposedly used help in the disintegration of the toilet paper. It’s not broke so I don’t plan to fix it!

  • Angela says:

    I also use the Scott RV Rapid dissolving and have never had issues and you don’t use half the roll each time.

  • Todd says:

    Same here. Scotts single ply is easy to find and breaks down completely in the tank. Only solids I see when flushing are not white. 🙂 Your fingers also do not bleed through when doing the deed like RV paper did.

  • Robert Hanshew says:

    Have you placed a septic safe wipe in water to see if they disolve? A product may say flushable or septic safe but be cautious about putting them in your black tank if they do not dissolve!

  • Jean says:

    I use septic use paper in my RV. It’s mostly Scott brand. I’ve had no issues with it so far.

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