Drano can chemically break down toilet paper because most varieties contain sodium hydroxide (lye) or bleach-based oxidizers. These ingredients attack the cellulose fibers in paper, softening and dissolving them over time (usually 15 minutes to a few hours).
If you’re dealing with a clogged toilet and suspect too much toilet paper is the culprit, you might be tempted to reach for a bottle of Drano. It’s a powerful chemical cleaner designed to break down organic matter like hair and grease in sinks and tubs. But will it actually dissolve toilet paper in a toilet? will drano dissolve toilet paper