Toilet Paper In Bolivia: Flush Or Toss?

Bolivia's sewage system cannot handle toilet paper being flushed, so it is customary to throw used toilet paper into a bin provided next to the toilet. This is similar to the customs in other South and Central American countries.

Why you shouldn't flush toilet paper in Bolivia

The Sewage System Can't Handle It

Bolivia's sewage system is old and not very strong. The pipes are too small and the treatment facilities are inadequate to cope with flushing toilet paper. Throwing your toilet paper into the bin is the best way to avoid blocking the pipes and causing a backup.

It's Common Practice in South America

In Bolivia, and most of South and Central America, it is common practice to throw toilet paper into a bin rather than flushing it. This is due to the region's weak sewage systems. While it may be standard practice in countries like the US, UK, and Australia to flush toilet paper, it's important to respect and adapt to local customs when travelling.

It's Better for the Environment

Throwing toilet paper into a bin may seem like an inconvenience, but it's actually better for the environment. Flushing uses a significant amount of water, especially if you have to flush multiple times to get the toilet paper down. By throwing your toilet paper into the bin, you're conserving water and reducing the strain on local water treatment facilities.

It's Easier to Deal With Any Embarrassing Moments

No one likes to talk about it, but we've all been there: those moments when you realise you've accidentally clogged the toilet. In Bolivia, it's much easier to deal with these embarrassing moments when you use a bin. Simply scoop out any excess water, wrap up the toilet paper, and discreetly throw it away. No one needs to know!

It's Important to Respect Local Customs

When travelling to a new country, it's important to respect local customs and adapt to the way things are done there. In Bolivia, people are used to throwing toilet paper into the bin, and it's considered rude and disrespectful to flush it. It's also more hygienic, as it reduces the risk of blocked pipes and sewage backing up into people's homes.

How to dispose of toilet paper in Bolivia

In Bolivia, the sewage system is old and not very strong, so it cannot handle toilet paper being flushed. Therefore, it is important to follow the correct procedure for disposing of toilet paper to avoid causing blockages and other issues.

What Not to Do

Firstly, it is important to note that you should not flush toilet paper down the toilet in Bolivia. This is because the plumbing and sewage systems in Bolivia are often not equipped to handle it. Putting toilet paper down the toilet can cause blockages and other issues, so it is important to follow the correct disposal procedure.

Where to Put Toilet Paper

Instead of flushing, look for a small garbage can next to the toilet. This is where you should put all your used toilet paper and other bathroom products. This may feel unusual if you are visiting from a country where flushing is the norm, but it is essential to follow this custom in Bolivia to avoid causing any problems.

Other Tips

It is a good idea to carry your own roll of toilet paper with you, as it may not always be provided, even in the best hotels and restaurants. Public toilets in Bolivia often charge a small fee, usually 1-2 bolivianos, and this will include a few carefully counted pieces of toilet paper provided by the attendant. It is also recommended to use the restroom in your hotel or hostel before heading out, as public toilets can be scarce and may not always be well-maintained.

The consequences of flushing toilet paper in Bolivia

Flushing toilet paper in Bolivia can have some serious consequences for the country's plumbing and sewage systems. As a result, it is customary to put used toilet paper in a bin next to the toilet, rather than flushing it.

The Sewage System in Bolivia

Bolivia's sewage system is old and not very strong. The sewage and water pipes were laid very close to each other and, as they have started to corrode, the boundary between the two pipes is not always clear. This means that flushing toilet paper can lead to blockages and flooding.

Public Toilets in Bolivia

Public toilets in Bolivia often come with signs instructing users not to put toilet paper in the toilet. Instead, there is usually a small garbage can provided for this purpose.

Tourist Information

Tourist information offices are not common in Bolivia as the tourism industry is still developing. However, it is important for tourists to be aware of the custom of not flushing toilet paper to avoid embarrassing situations, such as blocking a host's toilet.

The type of toilets in Bolivia

The Types of Toilets in Bolivia

Toilets in Bolivia vary depending on the region and the community. In general, the sewage and plumbing systems in Bolivia are old and not very strong, which means that toilet paper cannot be flushed and must be disposed of in a bin. This is similar to the systems in many other countries in South and Central America.

In the Siloli Desert, toilets are designed to be functional and simple, providing a basic necessity in the midst of the desert landscape.

In some rural areas of Bolivia, composting toilets are being introduced to improve sanitation and hygiene. These toilets are built above ground and do not require permanent plumbing or water. They are double-vault systems, with one chamber in use at a time. The toilet seat has two holes to separate urine and faecal matter. After each use, dry material such as ash or lime is added to aid decomposition and prevent odours and bugs. These toilets are designed to last 20 years with easy maintenance.

In the city of Sucre, most houses have hot water, and modern-style bathrooms with a combined water heater and shower head. However, the electrical wires are often exposed, which can be concerning. Public toilets in Sucre cost between 1-5 bolivianos to use and usually do not have seats. They can also be found in some tourist spots, such as the Uyuni Salt Flats.

Overall, the type of toilets in Bolivia ranges from basic desert toilets to modern facilities with hot water. The country is working to improve sanitation, especially in poor and rural communities, by introducing composting toilets.

The plumbing in Bolivia

In Bolivia, it is advised not to drink tap water as it is not safe. It is recommended to use bottled water or soft drinks instead. The water pipes coming into the cities have also been known to have issues, causing the water to be turned off for a few days. However, most big cities in Bolivia have running water, and some houses even have washing machines.

Public toilets in Bolivia usually cost between 1 and 5 Bolivianos to use and often do not have toilet seats. It is advised to carry your own toilet paper as it is not always provided.

Bolivia has a mix of modern and older-style toilets. In more rural areas, there may be a lack of soap to wash your hands, which can cause hygiene issues. It is recommended to carry hand sanitiser when travelling to Bolivia.

Overall, while the plumbing in Bolivia may not be as advanced as in some other countries, it is still possible to have a comfortable trip by being aware of the local practices and taking some simple precautions.

Frequently asked questions