Local Knowledge · Kos Island
Why Can't You Flush Toilet Paper in Greece?
The sign in the bathroom is one of Greece's most misunderstood customs. Here's what it's actually about.
Why Greeks Don't Flush Toilet Paper
It's not a preference — it's a plumbing reality that applies to most of Greece, including the island of Kos.
Narrow Sewer Pipes
Greek buildings, especially on islands like Kos, use sewer pipes as narrow as 50mm — not designed to handle anything beyond human waste. Paper clogs them easily and can back up the plumbing for the entire building.
Old Buildings, Hard to Retrofit
Much of Greece's housing stock was built decades ago. Upgrading these systems to handle toilet paper is expensive and complex, so most properties still rely on the older infrastructure.
The Bin Next to the Toilet
The small covered bin beside every Greek toilet is for paper. It's emptied daily in hotels and apartments and is simply part of how the system works — no different from any other local custom.
It's Not Just Toilet Paper
The same rule applies to wet wipes, tissues, and anything labelled 'flushable'. These break down too slowly and are a common cause of blockages across the island.
A note from us
Our apartments were fully renovated in 2025, but we still respect the local sewage system. You'll find a clean, covered bin in every bathroom. Please use it for paper — it keeps everything running smoothly and avoids any disruption during your stay.