The Ultimate Guide to RV Toilet Paper: Do You Really Need RV-Safe TP?

The Ultimate Guide to RV Toilet Paper: Do You Really Need RV-Safe TP?

Posted by Happy Campers Store on Jul 11th 2025

The Ultimate Guide to RV Toilet Paper: Do You Really Need RV-Safe TP?

If you’re an RVer, you’ve probably heard all sorts of advice about toilet paper. Do you really need expensive “RV-safe” brands? Will regular toilet paper clog your black tank or ruin your sensors? In this complete guide, we’ll bust the myths, explain how it actually works, compare top brands, and help you choose the best option for worry-free RV living.

Do You Really Need Special RV Toilet Paper?

RV-safe toilet paper is marketed as "rapid dissolving" to help prevent clogs and sensor issues. The idea is that it breaks down faster than regular household toilet paper, reducing the risk of waste accumulating in your tank. But here’s the truth: many septic-safe household brands break down just as well. The key is knowing how to choose (and test) your paper.

What Happens if You Use Regular Toilet Paper?

Using regular toilet paper doesn’t automatically guarantee clogs. The real danger comes when it doesn’t break down fast enough. It can:

  • Clump in the tank and contribute to blockages
  • Stick to tank walls or sensors, causing false readings
  • Retain odors and promote bacterial buildup

Already dealing with clogs or odors? You may need a complete black tank deep clean.

How to Test Toilet Paper for RV Use

The classic method is the jar test:

  1. Fill a clear jar halfway with water.
  2. Add a few sheets of the toilet paper you want to test.
  3. Shake the jar vigorously for 10-15 seconds.
  4. Watch to see how well it breaks down. Good RV toilet paper should shred quickly.

Septic-safe toilet paper often passes this test even if it isn't labeled “RV-safe.”

Best RV Toilet Paper Options (Reviews & Comparisons)

RV-Branded Options

  • Scott Rapid Dissolve: Widely recommended, truly quick-dissolving, affordable in bulk.
  • Camco RV Toilet Paper: Designed for RV plumbing, breaks down quickly, soft enough for comfort.
  • Thetford Aqua-Soft: Premium feel, consistent fast breakdown, popular with full-timers.

Septic-Safe Alternatives

  • Kirkland Septic-Safe: Passes jar test, budget-friendly, great for long trips.
  • Angel Soft Septic-Safe: Easy to find, reliable breakdown, soft but strong.
  • Store Brands: Many labeled “septic-safe” work perfectly in RVs with testing.

Want a direct comparison? See our full test and review guide.

RV Toilet Paper Comparison Table

Here’s a quick comparison of popular RV-friendly and septic-safe toilet papers. Prices are approximate and may vary.

Brand Type Key Features Approx. Price Buy Link
Scott Rapid Dissolve RV-Specific Fast-dissolving, trusted brand, budget-friendly in bulk $12 (4 rolls) Buy on Amazon
Camco RV Toilet Paper RV-Specific Specifically for RVs, soft feel, quick breakdown $10 (4 rolls) Buy on Amazon
Thetford Aqua-Soft RV-Specific Premium comfort, rapid dissolving, full-time favorite $13 (4 rolls) Buy on Amazon
Kirkland Septic-Safe Septic-Safe Household Passes jar test, bulk value, easy to find $20 (30 rolls) Buy at Costco
Angel Soft Septic-Safe Septic-Safe Household Budget-friendly, widely available, reliable breakdown $8 (12 rolls) Buy on Amazon

What RVers Are Saying

  • Scott Rapid Dissolve: “We’ve used it for years and never had a clog. Cheap and effective.” – Verified Amazon Reviewer
  • Camco RV Toilet Paper: “Soft enough for daily use but breaks down great. No issues with our sensors.” – Full-time RVer
  • Thetford Aqua-Soft: “Premium feel but worth the price for peace of mind.” – RV Living Forum User
  • Kirkland Septic-Safe: “Great for the budget. Passed our jar test easily.” – Costco Shopper
  • Angel Soft Septic-Safe: “Good all-around choice if you use plenty of water.” – Amazon Customer

Alternatives to RV-Specific Brands

RV-specific toilet paper is convenient, but not mandatory. Septic-safe 1-ply and some 2-ply papers work fine if tested. Just avoid plush, ultra-soft papers that don’t break down. Many RVers also use bidets or flushable wipes (but always dispose of wipes in the trash—never flush them!).

Pro Tips for Avoiding Clogs (Regardless of TP)

  • Use plenty of water with every flush.
  • Keep your black tank valve closed while camping—only open it to dump.
  • Dump your tank when it's at least 2/3 full for better flushing action.
  • Use quality treatments to break down waste and control odor. Check our 2025 guide to the best RV tank treatments.
  • Schedule regular deep cleans to avoid sludge. Learn how to deep clean your black tank here.

FAQs

Can you use Charmin in an RV?

Charmin Ultra Soft typically fails the jar test. If you want to try it, use the Ultra Gentle or Essentials versions labeled septic-safe—and test first.

Is all septic-safe TP safe for RVs?

Usually yes—but test it! Septic-safe products often break down well enough for RV use if you flush with plenty of water.

How often should you dump your black tank?

When it’s at least 2/3 full. Dumping too frequently with low volume reduces flushing power and promotes buildup.

Conclusion & Recommended Products

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Many RVers find septic-safe brands work just as well as dedicated RV toilet paper with proper tank care. If you want the simplest, worry-free choice, go with Scott Rapid Dissolve or Camco RV Toilet Paper. But whatever you choose, remember:

  • Flush with plenty of water
  • Dump regularly
  • Use high-quality tank treatments
  • Deep clean periodically

Keep your RV adventures clog-free and odor-free with smart choices!

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