In the Dominican Republic, the general rule of thumb is not to flush toilet paper unless you are in a high-end, modern resort or a newly built luxury development. Most of the country's plumbing systems utilize narrow pipes and septic tanks that are not designed to break down paper products efficiently. Flushing paper can lead to immediate and costly blockages or environmental damage to the local sewage infrastructure. Instead, you will almost always find a small waste bin located next to the toilet specifically for disposing of used paper. This is a common practice throughout much of Latin America and the Caribbean. While it may feel unhygienic to travelers from regions where flushing is the norm, these bins are usually emptied daily by housekeeping staff. If you are staying in an older building or a rural "Airbnb," it is particularly vital to follow this rule to avoid the embarrassment and inconvenience of an overflowing toilet. When in doubt, look for a sign in the bathroom; if there is a bin provided, assume the paper belongs there.