Bathrooms and toilet paper

One of the first words we learned when we decided to visit Mexico was baño (bathroom).  Let's face it, being in a foreign county and not knowing the most basic words is a real challenge.  We know what you're thinking...learn the basics like hello, goodbye, thank you, etc.  Nope, that's not what we wanted to learn.  We wanted to learn how to read, recognize and say the word BATHROOM in Spanish.  So between our Spanish/English dictionary and the Spanish websites we frequented, we learned the word baño.


When we arrived in Mexico and started to explore stores, shops, restaurants, etc, we looked for the word baño everywhere we went. We were so proud of ourselves.  We could spot a baño sign a mile away!  Let's get a high-five for small victories!

But with all that, there was one thing we had not anticipated...toilet paper (TP).  Apparently, some of the plumbing in Mexico can tolerate toilet paper being flushed through their septic/sewer systems and some cannot.

Now I don't' know about you, but my entire life I was taught to wipe from front to back, put the toilet paper in the toilet, flush once or twice (depending on the situation  - TMI...right?), and wash my hands. Now in Mexico, the steps are the same except sometimes you don't put the toilet paper in the toilet, you put your soiled toilet paper in the trash can.  YUP.  You read that last line right.  IN THE TRASH.  It really takes some getting accustomed too.  I mean, the entire process is all automated in my mind; no thinking required.

Make sure to read any signs and symbols in the baño that states flush or no flush.  Here's what a typical sign may say to indicate not to flush:  "Favor de no tirar papel en la tasa del baño".  And if you're not sure, error on the side of caution and put your TP in the trash can.

p.s.  Bathrooms may be labeled Baño or WC for water closet.  The ladies room will usually say "damas" or "mujeres", and the men's room will usually say "caballeros" or "hombres".