When it comes to your Airstream, extra care should be taken to maintain the black tank system to ensure you don’t run into any foul or expensive issues down the line from improper maintenance.
Important Note: Do not put anything down the toilet except human waste, RV toilet tissue, and safe-to-use cleaning products.
What type of toilet tissue should be used in Airstream toilets?
Thetford's Aqua-Soft toilet tissue, a rapid-dissolving tissue that is 100% biodegradable 2-ply. Others prefer to buy single ply toilet tissue meant for home use as it’s thin enough that it breaks down quickly.
If you prefer to use thick and strong toilet tissue, you can purchase a sealed waste container to keep beside the toilet for toilet paper disposal. Instead of flushing the toilet tissue, you can throw it in the trash. If you decide this route is for you, just be sure to tell any visitors your bathroom process, so the toilet tissue doesn’t get flushed and cause a clog.
You can also try Thetford’s tissue digester, formulated to dissolve toilet tissue in holding tanks. Safe for all waste treatment systems, it keeps drain lines clean and free-flowing by preventing tissue build-up and clogging.
How Can I Clean My Airstream Toilet Bowl?
Chemical toilet bowl cleaners commonly used in homes are not appropriate for use in an Airstream. The soft rubber and plastic seals throughout your Airstream’s sewer system will degrade quickly when exposed to these harsh chemicals. Instead, use a regular toilet bowl brush and RV-approved cleaning product. You could also experiment cleaning with a mix of vinegar (⅓ cup) and sprinkle of baking soda. It will foam up, scrub with a brush, and flush.
What Can Not Be Flushed Down My Airstream Toilet?
Here is a list including some items that should never go down your Airstream’s toilet. When in doubt, do not put it down the toilet and use a trash can when possible:
- Feminine hygiene products (tampons, pads, wipes, etc.)
- Paper towels
- Facial tissues
- Sanitary or baby wipes
- Automotive antifreeze
- Ammonia
- Alcohols
- Acetone (nail polish remover)
- Table scraps
- Kitchen grease
- Cleaning products not designed for RV use
- Chemical toilet bowl cleaner (what you probably use at home)
- Anything that is not human waste, toilet tissue, or RV-approved cleaning products