No, you should not flush a kitchen roll down the toilet.
Why You Shouldn't Flush Kitchen Roll
While both toilet paper and kitchen roll are paper products, they are designed for different purposes and react differently when wet. Here's why flushing kitchen roll is a bad idea:
- High Absorbency: As stated in the reference, kitchen roll and blue roll are made to absorb spills. This means they are highly absorbent and will swell up considerably when exposed to water. This property, which makes them useful for cleaning, also makes them a significant plumbing hazard.
- Pipe Blockages: Unlike toilet paper, which is designed to break down quickly in water, kitchen roll tends to stay intact. This can cause clogs in your pipes, leading to slow drains or, worse, complete blockages requiring a plumber. The size and thickness of kitchen roll sheets further contribute to this issue.
- Septic System Issues: If you have a septic tank, flushing kitchen roll is even more problematic. It can interfere with the breakdown process within the tank, potentially causing system failure and expensive repairs.
Alternatives to Flushing Kitchen Roll
Here are better ways to dispose of kitchen roll:
- Trash Can: The most straightforward and recommended method is to discard used kitchen roll in your regular trash can.
- Composting: If the kitchen roll is not heavily soiled, and you have a compost bin, they can often be composted. Check your local composting guidelines for specific advice.
Comparison Table: Toilet Paper vs. Kitchen Roll
| Feature | Toilet Paper | Kitchen Roll |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Designed for flushing. | Designed for spills & cleaning. |
| Absorbency | Low | High |
| Breakdown | Breaks down quickly | Does not break down easily |
| Plumbing Safe | Yes | No |
By understanding the difference, you can avoid plumbing problems and dispose of each type of paper appropriately.
