SPRINGFIELD, Mo. (KY3) -- Toilet paper continues to be a hot commodity on shopping lists.

Stocking up on toilet paper has led to a significant increase in panic-buying during the Coronavirus outbreak. However, experts say resorting to other materials isn't a good idea.

The worry and uncertainty of the COVID-19 quarantine led many people to buy and stack up on lots of toilet paper. Numerous stores throughout the Ozarks have had trouble keeping up with the demand, and toilet tissue shelves are empty.

Springfield Environmental Services regularly campaign to remind the community to only flush toilet paper.

Clean Water Services Superintendent Mike DeLong said it's critical, especially now more than ever, to watch what you flush.

DeLong said in desperate times, people are more likely to use other items like tissues, baby wipes, flushable wipes, or even paper towels.

However, using different materials and flushing them can cause severe clogging and damage to one's plumbing. It can also create unwanted and messy build-up.

"Sewage comes out of the manhole and onto the ground or pavement," explained DeLong. "Around that manhole, people can come in direct contact with that sewage."