Toilet paper might seem like the simplest household item — a soft roll tucked away in every washroom. Yet, when you dig a little deeper, you find it’s tied to culture, habits, and even etiquette. From how we fold it to why some countries don’t use it at all, toilet paper tells a surprisingly fascinating story about human behaviour and hygiene.
Let’s explore its ethics, types, and quirky global traditions.
What is the difference between toilet roll and tissue paper?
This is a common question, as the terms often get mixed up.
· Toilet roll is specifically designed for bathroom use. It’s usually thinner, dissolves easily in water, and comes on a cardboard tube for easy dispensing. Here’s an example product that we have. Here’s an example product that we have.
· Tissue paper, on the other hand, is a broader category. It can refer to facial tissues, wrapping tissue, or decorative paper. Facial tissue is stronger and softer than toilet roll, while wrapping tissue doesn’t break down well in water at all.
The key difference is function: toilet roll is engineered to flush safely, while tissue paper is not.
Is more expensive toilet paper better?
Not always. Price doesn’t always equal performance. Here’s what to consider:
· Softness: Premium rolls are often quilted or multi-ply, giving a softer feel.
· Strength: Cheaper rolls may tear easily, but some premium ones are too thick and risk clogging toilets.
· Eco-friendliness: Recycled toilet paper is often cheaper and environmentally conscious but might feel rougher.
Everest Pro has the premium characteristic while affordable to purchase in bulk.
The best choice balances comfort, cost, and flushability. More expensive rolls might feel luxurious, but they aren’t always worth the premium.
Should you fold or ball up toilet paper?
The age-old debate continues: fold neatly or scrunch it into a ball?
· Folding creates a flat, layered surface that uses less paper and offers better control.
· Balling up (scrunching) feels quicker and softer but often wastes more paper.
Most experts agree folding is more efficient and hygienic. But habits vary — sometimes tied to how people were taught growing up.
Why do people put toilet paper under instead of over?
The over vs. under debate is a classic bathroom argument.
· Over (paper coming over the top): easier to grab, looks neat, and prevents accidental wall contact.
· Under (paper hanging behind the roll): some believe it looks tidier and makes it harder for kids or pets to unroll the paper in one go.
Interestingly, the original 1891 toilet paper patent shows the paper going over the roll. Despite this, millions still prefer the under method.
Do most people scrunch or fold toilet paper?
Surveys have shown mixed results. In North America:
· About 60% fold their toilet paper.
· About 40% scrunch it into a ball.
Folding tends to be more popular among those who value neatness and conservation, while scrunching is linked to habit and perceived comfort.
Which cultures don't use toilet paper?
Toilet paper isn’t universal. In fact, large parts of the world traditionally don’t use it at all.
· South Asia & the Middle East: Water is the primary cleaning method, often using a small jug (lota) or bidet-style sprayer.
· Japan: While toilet paper is used, high-tech bidets in modern toilets often reduce reliance on it.
· Parts of Africa: Water, sand, or natural materials are sometimes used instead.
The reasons are often cultural, religious, or practical. In water-rich regions, washing is considered more hygienic than wiping.
Which country has pink toilet paper?
This colourful detail surprises many! France is famous for producing pink toilet paper.
The choice dates back decades when coloured bathroom décor was trendy. Pink was considered softer, warmer, and more appealing than plain white. While most countries now stick to white (for cost and bleaching reasons), pink rolls are still common in French supermarkets.
Why put too much toilet paper in the toilet is not a good idea?
Overloading the toilet with paper is one of the main causes of clogs.
· Toilet paper is designed to dissolve, but in large amounts, it clumps and blocks pipes.
· Older plumbing systems are especially sensitive to excess.
· Overflows can cause costly water damage and require professional repairs.
Tip: Flush midway if you need to use a lot, instead of sending it all down at once.
Folding Ethics: Is There a "Right" Way?
When it comes to folding vs. scrunching, or over vs. under, the truth is there’s no one-size-fits-all. Etiquette is shaped by upbringing, culture, and even architecture (small bathrooms may influence how rolls are placed).
However, from a practical standpoint:
· Fold, don’t scrunch, for efficiency.
· Go over, not under, for accessibility.
· Don’t overload the toilet — flush responsibly.
At the end of the day, the “right” way is whatever keeps you clean and doesn’t damage your plumbing.
The Future of Toilet Paper
With sustainability concerns growing, toilet paper may not dominate the way it once did. Bidets and reusable cloth alternatives are gaining traction. Many people are also turning to recycled toilet paper to reduce environmental impact.
But for now, whether you fold, scrunch, roll over, or tuck under the seat, toilet paper remains a daily necessity with surprisingly deep cultural roots.
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