The potty problem

The Mexican sewage system has a history of problems, but times are changing, especially in urban areas.

It was long required that the potty-sitter wipe himself with toilet paper, horsetail, corncob, etc., and then deposit said material in a nearby trashcan.

Many Mexicans still do this, even when it is not necessary. But habits die hard, and this is one of them.

We recommend that you simply drop the paper in the toilet bowl in public places unless there is a sign that indicates otherwise. In a home, check next to the toilet for a trash can. If it´s there, use the trash can instead.

Here at the Ranchito, it all goes down the pipes.

A related issue is this: Why must you hold the handle down to flush Mexican toilets?

I mean hold it down until the flush is all done.

You cannot just push the handle and leave. You have to stand there and hold it down till the entire operation is finished.

This is the case in 95 percent of Mexican toilets I have seen. Why?

If you peek into the tank, it looks exactly like it does north of the border, the same apparatus.

This is a mystery.