Global bathroom practices: toilet paper disposal habits around the world
A map revealed how different countries manage toilet paper disposal, highlighting the impact of sewage systems and economic factors on these practices
When traveling to different countries, one can observe cultural differences in eating habits, fashion, and even bathroom practices. In some countries, it is common to discard toilet paper directly into the toilet, while in others, improper disposal can lead to serious clogging issues.
To illustrate which nations follow this practice, a map was created based on the website “Where do I put the paper”, which lists the habits of each country, indicating whether the used toilet paper is flushable (capable of disintegrating when flushed) or should be thrown into a trash bin.
The map highlights that countries with wealthier economies, such as the United States, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as those in Northern Europe, tend to use the sewage system for toilet paper disposal. On the other hand, countries with inadequate sewage and sanitation systems prefer the use of trash bins — in Brazil and other Latin American countries, it is common to see signs in public restrooms advising against flushing toilet paper.
It is important to note that many of these countries have narrow sewage pipes, leading to clogs when pulp fibers do not dissolve completely. In Brazil, according to the map, flushing toilet paper in rural areas poses a higher risk.
Moreover, in some countries, this decision depends on the public sewage system or the infrastructure of the hotel where one is staying.
Refer to the map below for more details:
