There’s Only One Correct Way to Hang Toilet Paper. A Patent Settled the Debate in 1891

For centuries, society has been engaged in several battles. Some of them have led us to overlook fundamental truths amid the disputes of opposing sides. One topic that never seems to fade away is the debate over the correct way to hang toilet paper. Given the decades it took to make definitive advancements in roll design, it’s no surprise that this controversy has persisted.

Ironically, the answer has been clear from the very beginning.

A 150-year battle. Should the toilet paper sit “over” or “under” the roll? The debate has sparked conflicting opinions, family arguments, and heated discussions. Proponents of the “over” method argue that it offers practical and hygienic advantages. It’s easier to find the end of the paper, reduces the risk of contact with germs on the wall, and presents a visually neater appearance.

In contrast, supporters of the “under” method appreciate its more discreet look and claim it makes it harder for pets or children to unroll the entire roll.

An illustrated invention. An official answer has emerged from an unexpected source: a document from more than 130 years ago. In 2015, an X user discovered a historical image in the Google Patents archive showing a patent from 1891. It was filed by the Albany Perforated Wrapping Paper Company, whose owner, Seth Wheeler, was the inventor of perforated toilet paper.

The image below clearly illustrates that the paper was intended to hang from above the roll. The patent also includes unambiguous diagrams demonstrating that the paper should unroll from the front.

Seth Wheeler’s patent.

The reasoning. Wheeler patented the concept of perforated paper in 1871 and perfected the roll design two decades later. He aimed to minimize waste and create a user-friendly product that didn’t require complicated roll holders.

Wheeler stated his intention in the patent text: “My invention… consists in a roll of wrapping-paper with perforations on the line of the division between one sheet and the next, so as to be easily torn apart.” In his original design, the paper was meant to fall toward the front, allowing for easy tearing of the perforated sheets and preventing accidental unrolling or unnecessary waste.

Nokia made toilet paper before it produced phones.

Science. More data support the idea that the “over” perspective is valid. According to health science professor Christian Moro, hanging toilet paper with the sheet coming over the top reduces the risk of users touching the back wall of the holder when reaching for the end of the roll. This simple adjustment can minimize the spread of bacteria.

Moro pointed out that potential infectious agents in restrooms include streptococcus, staphylococcus, E. coli, and common cold viruses. All of them can be transmitted through contact with contaminated surfaces. As such, preventing hands from coming into unnecessary contact with the wall or roll holder effectively reduces the risk of infection in shared spaces.

An evolving invention. In recent years, other discussions have emerged about toilet paper’s design. The New York Times noted that its invention marked a technical advancement compared to earlier methods, including leaves, seashells, sticks with sponges, and reusable ceramics. However, the continued use of toilet paper suggests that it’s more a matter of cultural resistance to change than of functional efficiency.

The pandemic also brought toilet paper into the spotlight, not for its medical benefits, but as a symbol of control amid chaos. Mass hysteria led to empty shelves, despite the fact that supply chains weren’t threatened and that toilet paper isn’t the most hygienic option. Experts agree it’s far from the cleanest or healthiest choice available.

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The evidence. The outlet also reported that researchers specializing in infectious diseases and colorectal health agree that relying solely on paper for hygiene doesn’t ensure adequate cleanliness. It can cause irritation and promote the transmission of diseases. Pathogens that can survive in improperly disposed fecal matter include germs and bacteria contributing to urinary tract infections.

Traces of coronavirus have even been found in human feces. According to H. Randolph Bailey, a colorectal surgeon in Houston, many of the anal issues he encounters in his practice arise from excessive cleaning. He also points to inadequate products, such as scented wet wipes containing irritating chemicals.

Using water… Many specialists believe that rinsing with water is the most hygienic method of cleaning. In Japan, smart toilets equipped with warm water jets are commonplace, while their adoption in the West remains limited. The barriers to acceptance aren’t technical or economic but rather cultural.

…or wipes. Wet wipes have emerged as another alternative to toilet paper. However, the widespread use of wet wipes has led to environmental issues. The accumulation of wipes, grease, and other waste in sewage systems has created massive blockages. Known as “fatbergs,” these blockages can jeopardize urban sanitation systems.

Instead of solving the problem, wet wipes have introduced a new challenge, driven by an industry that markets products such as “Dude Wipes” and “Queen V.” These brands target adults, promising freshness and a modern approach to personal hygiene.

The weight of history. However, toilet paper continues to reign supreme in bathrooms. An official endorsement from a 1891 patent of the “over” method could help settle one of the most trivial but persistent debates in the household.

From the inventor’s viewpoint, hanging toilet paper over the roll was logical and practical. While society has evolved, there’s something reassuring about knowing that even these small everyday dilemmas have historical roots and can be resolved with a simple sheet of paper, first patented in 1891.

Images | Jas Min | Seth Wheeler | Catlemur

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