Can You Use Paper Towels as Toilet Paper? (And Why You Shouldn’t)

AvatarByLiana Farrell Toilet Queries

Can You Use Paper Towels As Toilet Paper?

When you’re in a pinch, it’s tempting to use whatever’s available to wipe yourself after using the toilet. But is it really okay to use paper towels as toilet paper?

The short answer is: no, you should not use paper towels as toilet paper.

Paper towels are not designed to be used in the bathroom. They’re made from a different type of material than toilet paper, and they can be more abrasive on your skin. Additionally, paper towels are not as absorbent as toilet paper, so they can leave behind more residue.

If you’re ever in a situation where you don’t have access to toilet paper, there are a few other things you can use instead. Some good options include:

  • Baby wipes
  • Hand towels
  • Socks
  • Old rags

Just be sure to wash your hands thoroughly afterwards, and dispose of the used item properly.

In the long run, it’s always best to keep a supply of toilet paper on hand so that you don’t have to resort to using other materials.

Can You Use Paper Towels As Toilet Paper? Yes No
Are paper towels flushable? No Yes
Can paper towels clog toilets? Yes No
Are paper towels biodegradable? No Yes
Are paper towels recyclable? Yes No

The Pros and Cons of Using Paper Towels as Toilet Paper

Paper towels are a common household item that can be used for a variety of purposes, including cleaning, drying, and wiping up spills. However, some people also use paper towels as toilet paper. While this may seem like a convenient option, there are both pros and cons to using paper towels as toilet paper.

Pros of using paper towels as toilet paper

  • They are more absorbent than toilet paper. Paper towels are made from a thicker material than toilet paper, which means that they can absorb more liquid. This can be helpful if you have a heavy flow or if you are experiencing diarrhea.
  • They are more durable than toilet paper. Paper towels are also more durable than toilet paper, which means that they are less likely to tear or rip. This can be helpful if you have a lot of wiping to do.
  • They are less likely to cause tears or rips. Toilet paper is often made from a thin material, which can make it more likely to tear or rip. This can be especially problematic if you have hemorrhoids or other anal fissures. Paper towels, on the other hand, are made from a thicker material that is less likely to cause tears or rips.

Cons of using paper towels as toilet paper

  • They are more expensive than toilet paper. Paper towels are typically more expensive than toilet paper. This is because they are made from a higher quality material and they are often marketed as being more absorbent and durable.
  • They are more environmentally damaging than toilet paper. Paper towels are more environmentally damaging than toilet paper. This is because they are made from trees, which are a renewable resource. However, the production of paper towels requires a lot of energy and water, which can contribute to environmental pollution.
  • They can clog toilets. Paper towels are thicker than toilet paper, which means that they are more likely to clog toilets. This is because they do not break down as easily as toilet paper.

Overall, there are both pros and cons to using paper towels as toilet paper. If you are considering using paper towels as toilet paper, it is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully to make the best decision for your individual needs.

How to Use Paper Towels as Toilet Paper

If you decide to use paper towels as toilet paper, there are a few things you should keep in mind.

  • Tear off a sheet of paper towel that is about the same size as a square of toilet paper. This will help to ensure that you are using enough paper towel to get the job done, but not so much that you are wasting paper towels.
  • Fold the paper towel in half so that it is double-thick. This will help to make the paper towel more absorbent and durable.
  • Use the paper towel to wipe yourself clean. Be sure to wipe from front to back to avoid spreading bacteria.
  • Flush the paper towel down the toilet. Paper towels can clog toilets, so it is important to make sure that you flush them down the toilet.

Here are some additional tips for using paper towels as toilet paper:

  • Use a small amount of water to help the paper towel absorb the liquid. This will help to prevent the paper towel from tearing or ripping.
  • If you have a lot of wiping to do, use a fresh sheet of paper towel each time. This will help to prevent the paper towel from becoming too wet and soggy.
  • If you are using paper towels as toilet paper on a regular basis, consider investing in a bidet. A bidet can help to clean you more thoroughly and reduce the amount of paper towels you need to use.

Using paper towels as toilet paper is a convenient option, but it is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully to make sure that it is the best choice for you.

Paper towels can be used as toilet paper in a pinch, but there are both pros and cons to doing so. It is important to weigh the pros and cons carefully to make the best decision for your individual needs.

If you decide to use paper towels as toilet paper, be sure to use them sparingly and flush them down the toilet. Paper towels can clog toilets, so it is important to take steps to prevent this from happening.

When to Use Paper Towels as Toilet Paper

You can use paper towels as toilet paper in any situation where you would normally use toilet paper. This includes:

  • When you are out of toilet paper
  • When you are in a public restroom and there is no toilet paper available
  • When you are camping or backpacking and do not have access to toilet paper
  • When you are in a disaster situation and there is no running water or plumbing

It is important to note that paper towels are not as absorbent as toilet paper, so they may not be as effective in cleaning yourself. However, they can still be used to remove waste and prevent it from sticking to your body.

If you are using paper towels as toilet paper, it is important to flush them down the toilet after use. This will help to prevent clogging and keep your plumbing system running smoothly.

Alternatives to Using Paper Towels as Toilet Paper

There are a number of alternative options to using paper towels as toilet paper, including:

  • Using a bidet. A bidet is a plumbing fixture that sprays water to clean the anus and genitals after using the toilet. Bidets are common in many countries around the world, but they are not as widely used in the United States. If you are interested in using a bidet, you can purchase one online or at a home improvement store.
  • Using a waterless toilet. A waterless toilet is a toilet that does not use water to flush. Instead, it uses a vacuum to remove waste from the bowl. Waterless toilets are more environmentally friendly than traditional toilets, and they can also save you money on your water bill.
  • Using reusable toilet paper. Reusable toilet paper is made from materials such as bamboo, recycled paper, or wheat straw. It is compostable and biodegradable, so it is better for the environment than disposable toilet paper. Reusable toilet paper can be purchased online or at some health food stores.
  • Using a portable toilet. A portable toilet is a temporary toilet that can be used in places where there is no permanent plumbing. Portable toilets are often used in construction sites, outdoor events, and camping trips.
  • Using a composting toilet. A composting toilet is a toilet that uses a natural composting process to break down waste. Composting toilets are more environmentally friendly than traditional toilets, and they can also save you money on your water bill.

If you are unable to use toilet paper, you can use one of these alternative options to clean yourself after using the toilet. These options are all safe and effective, and they can help you to avoid using paper towels as toilet paper.

Paper towels can be used as toilet paper in a pinch, but they are not as absorbent or effective as toilet paper. If you are able to, it is best to use toilet paper or one of the alternative options listed above.

Using paper towels as toilet paper can also be harmful to your plumbing system. Paper towels are not designed to be flushed down the toilet, and they can cause clogs and other problems. If you must use paper towels as toilet paper, be sure to flush them down the toilet immediately after use.

Can I use paper towels as toilet paper?

No, you should not use paper towels as toilet paper. Paper towels are not designed for use in the bathroom and can cause a number of problems.

  • Paper towels are not absorbent enough. Toilet paper is designed to absorb liquid, while paper towels are designed to wipe up spills. If you use paper towels to wipe yourself, they will not absorb the liquid and could leave you feeling wet and uncomfortable.
  • Paper towels can clog your plumbing. Paper towels are thicker and more absorbent than toilet paper, and they can easily clog your plumbing if they are flushed down the toilet. This can lead to expensive repairs and inconvenience.
  • Paper towels can irritate your skin. Paper towels are often made from harsh materials that can irritate your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin. This can lead to discomfort and even pain.

If you are out of toilet paper, there are a number of other options that you can use instead. These include:

  • Bathroom tissue
  • Baby wipes
  • Hand towels
  • Old rags

If you are using a non-toilet paper product, be sure to flush it down the toilet after each use. This will help to prevent clogging.

What are the risks of using paper towels as toilet paper?

The risks of using paper towels as toilet paper include:

  • Clogging your plumbing. Paper towels are thicker and more absorbent than toilet paper, and they can easily clog your plumbing if they are flushed down the toilet. This can lead to expensive repairs and inconvenience.
  • Irritating your skin. Paper towels are often made from harsh materials that can irritate your skin, especially if you have sensitive skin. This can lead to discomfort and even pain.
  • Spreading germs. Paper towels are not designed to be used in the bathroom, and they can easily spread germs. This can increase your risk of infection.

If you are out of toilet paper, there are a number of other options that you can use instead. These include:

  • Bathroom tissue
  • Baby wipes
  • Hand towels
  • Old rags

If you are using a non-toilet paper product, be sure to flush it down the toilet after each use. This will help to prevent clogging.

What are some alternatives to using paper towels as toilet paper?

If you are out of toilet paper, there are a number of other options that you can use instead. These include:

  • Bathroom tissue
  • Baby wipes
  • Hand towels
  • Old rags

Bathroom tissue is the best alternative to paper towels as toilet paper. It is designed for use in the bathroom and is absorbent enough to clean yourself properly.

Baby wipes are also a good option for use as toilet paper. They are soft and gentle on your skin, and they can help to remove any dirt or debris.

Hand towels can be used as a last resort if you are out of both toilet paper and baby wipes. They are not as absorbent as toilet paper, but they can still be used to clean yourself.

Old rags are another option for use as toilet paper. They are absorbent and can be used to clean yourself. However, be sure to wash the rags thoroughly after each use to prevent the spread of germs.

No matter what alternative you choose, be sure to flush it down the toilet after each use. This will help to prevent clogging.

there are a few key takeaways to remember when it comes to using paper towels as toilet paper. First, paper towels are not a safe alternative to toilet paper. They can cause irritation and damage to the delicate skin of your anus and rectum. Second, paper towels are not as absorbent as toilet paper, so they can make it more difficult to clean yourself properly. Third, paper towels are not flushable, so they can contribute to clogs in your plumbing. If you are ever in a situation where you do not have access to toilet paper, it is better to use a wet wipe or a washcloth than a paper towel.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.