No, it is generally not recommended to flush toilet paper down the toilet in Mykonos. This practice is discouraged throughout Greece, including its islands like Mykonos, due to the specific design of its plumbing systems.
Understanding Greek Plumbing
The primary reason you shouldn't flush toilet paper in Mykonos stems from the country's older infrastructure. Greek sewage pipes are significantly narrower than those typically found in countries like the US or the UK. This narrower diameter means that these pipes can very easily become clogged by toilet paper or any other foreign objects, leading to inconvenient and unpleasant plumbing issues.The Common Practice: Waste Bins
Instead of flushing, visitors will almost always find a small, lidded waste bin placed right next to the toilet in bathrooms across Mykonos – whether in hotels, restaurants, cafes, or private accommodations. The correct and expected practice is to place all used toilet paper into this bin.This system might seem unfamiliar to some, but it is a standard and essential part of maintaining the local plumbing infrastructure. The bins are typically emptied regularly by staff, ensuring proper hygiene.
Practical Tips for Toilet Paper Disposal in Mykonos:
To ensure a smooth and respectful experience with local customs, keep the following in mind:- Always Look for the Bin: Assume there will be a bin next to the toilet and use it for all toilet paper.
- Don't Be Shy: This is the universal practice in Greece, and everyone adheres to it. It's not considered impolite or unhygienic in the local context.
- Maintain Hygiene: While bins are regularly emptied, carrying a small bottle of hand sanitizer can be a good idea for personal comfort.
- Avoid Flushing Anything Else: Just as toilet paper can cause clogs, so can feminine hygiene products, wet wipes (even "flushable" ones), and any other items. Always use the bin for these.
Mykonos Toilet Etiquette: Do's and Don'ts
| Do's | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Place all used toilet paper in the bin. | Flush toilet paper down the toilet. |
| Use the provided lidded waste bins. | Flush any other items (wipes, feminine products). |
| Practice good hand hygiene. | Ignore "no flushing" signs or requests. |
| Be aware that this is standard practice. | Assume plumbing is like your home country's. |
By following these simple guidelines, you contribute to preserving Mykonos's infrastructure and ensure a more pleasant experience for everyone.
