Using toilet paper is for troglodytes (extended)

In the modern world, many everyday habits are taken for granted, often without questioning their efficiency or hygiene. One such custom is the widespread use of toilet paper. While this household staple is deeply ingrained in many cultures, it’s time to reconsider whether it truly belongs in a modern, civilized society—or if, perhaps, relying on toilet paper is a relic of a bygone, less advanced era. By examining the history, hygiene implications, environmental consequences, and evolving social attitudes, we can better understand whether this everyday item deserves its place in our lives—or if it’s time to embrace alternatives that are more in line with the needs and values of today’s world.

The Origins of Toilet Paper

The use of toilet paper only became common in the Western world in the late 19th century. Before that, people relied on a variety of materials, from leaves to corncobs to stones. The introduction of manufactured toilet paper was considered a leap forward, but was it really a substantial improvement? Or just a slightly less primitive solution?

Historically, the methods of personal cleansing after using the toilet have varied dramatically across cultures and time periods. In ancient Rome, people used a communal sponge on a stick, called a tersorium, which was rinsed in vinegar or salt water between uses. In other regions, such as parts of Europe and the Middle East, water and the left hand were the standard tools for cleaning. Wealthier individuals sometimes used wool, lace, or other soft materials, while the masses used whatever was readily available—such as grass, shells, or snow in colder climates.

The commercial production of toilet paper began in China as early as the 6th century, but it didn’t reach Europe or North America until much later. Joseph Gayetty is credited with introducing the first packaged toilet paper in the United States in 1857, marketing it as “medicated paper for the water-closet.” However, it took decades for toilet paper to become affordable, widely available, and socially accepted. By the early 20th century, improved plumbing and the development of softer, perforated rolls helped toilet paper become a household norm.

Yet, when compared to the water-based cleaning methods that have persisted for centuries in many parts of the world, the shift to toilet paper seems less like a revolutionary advancement and more like a temporary compromise—one that prioritized convenience over true cleanliness and sustainability. The persistence of alternatives in countries across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East suggests that the embrace of toilet paper in the West may have been more about cultural trends than genuine superiority.

Hygiene: The Uncomfortable Truth

One of the primary arguments against toilet paper is its lack of effectiveness in cleaning. Medical professionals and hygiene experts have pointed out that wiping with paper does little to actually remove all traces of waste. In fact, it can sometimes spread bacteria, leading to irritation, infections, and other health issues. In contrast, cultures that rely on water for cleaning—using bidets or handheld sprayers—enjoy higher standards of cleanliness.

Several studies have shown that using only toilet paper often leaves behind fecal residue, which can contribute to unpleasant odors, skin irritation, and even urinary tract or anal infections. In cases where individuals have sensitive skin or medical conditions such as hemorrhoids, the friction caused by paper can exacerbate discomfort, while water-based cleaning offers a gentler, more effective approach.

Here are some hygiene-related drawbacks of toilet paper use:

• Incomplete cleaning: Toilet paper may remove the bulk of waste, but microscopic particles can remain, increasing the risk of bacterial growth.
• Skin irritation: Repeated wiping, especially with rough or scented papers, can lead to chafing, rashes, or allergic reactions.
• Potential for infection: Inadequate cleaning can contribute to urinary tract infections, particularly in women, and can also cause or worsen anal fissures.
• Spread of germs: Flushing soiled paper can sometimes aerosolize bacteria, contaminating the surrounding area.

In contrast, water-based cleaning—whether via a bidet, a handheld sprayer, or even a simple cup of water—removes waste far more thoroughly and comfortably. It’s no coincidence that many hospitals, maternity wards, and care facilities around the world recommend or provide access to water-based hygiene, recognizing its benefits for vulnerable populations. The fundamental question remains: If a quick rinse with water is considered the gold standard for cleaning almost every other part of our bodies, why do so many people settle for dry paper when it comes to personal hygiene?

Environmental Impact

Another important consideration is the environmental cost of toilet paper. Millions of trees are cut down each year to produce something that is immediately discarded after a single use. The production process itself consumes vast quantities of water and energy, and the bleaching chemicals used can be harmful to waterways. In an age where sustainability is paramount, clinging to toilet paper is an anachronism.

The statistics are staggering: it’s estimated that the global demand for toilet paper leads to the felling of roughly 27,000 trees per day. To meet this demand, vast tracts of forest are cleared, contributing to deforestation and the loss of critical wildlife habitats. Moreover, the process of manufacturing toilet paper is highly resource-intensive. For every single roll, it takes approximately 37 gallons of water to produce, not to mention the energy required to harvest trees, process pulp, and transport the finished product around the world.

Other environmental impacts include:

• Chemical pollution: The bleaching and softening agents used in toilet paper production often contain chlorine and other toxic substances. These chemicals can leach into rivers and streams, harming aquatic life and potentially entering the human food chain.
• Waste disposal: Used toilet paper clogs sewage systems and increases the burden on wastewater treatment plants. In some regions, it must be discarded in bins rather than flushed, creating additional landfill waste.
• Carbon footprint: The entire supply chain—from logging to processing to transportation—contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.

In comparison, water-based cleaning methods have a significantly lower environmental impact. A modern bidet uses only a fraction of a gallon per use, and handheld sprayers can be operated with minimal water. By reducing or eliminating toilet paper, households can save trees, conserve water, and limit the release of harmful chemicals into the environment. For those concerned about sustainability, switching to water-based solutions is one of the simplest yet most impactful changes one can make in daily life.

Modern Alternatives

Technological advancements have given us far more effective and sustainable alternatives. The bidet, once considered a luxury, is now affordable and easy to install in almost any bathroom. Handheld bidet sprayers and even travel bidet bottles are widely available. These methods not only improve hygiene but also drastically reduce paper waste and the associated environmental burden.

Bidets come in many forms, from standalone porcelain fixtures to electric seats that retrofit onto existing toilets. Modern designs offer features such as adjustable water temperature, pressure settings, air drying, and even heated seats. Installation is often straightforward, requiring little more than a wrench and a few minutes of time. For renters or those on a budget, handheld sprayers and portable bidet bottles provide similar benefits at a fraction of the cost.

The advantages of these alternatives go beyond hygiene and environmental benefits:

• Cost savings: While the upfront cost of a bidet or sprayer may seem significant, most households recoup the investment within a year due to reduced spending on toilet paper.
• Comfort: Water-based cleaning is gentler on sensitive skin, reducing irritation and making it a preferred choice for those with health conditions.
• Accessibility: Bidets offer increased independence for people with mobility impairments or conditions that make wiping difficult.
• Global compatibility: Portable bidets and sprayers are perfect for travelers, campers, and anyone visiting regions where toilet paper is scarce.

As technology continues to advance, smart toilets equipped with built-in bidet functions and automated features are becoming more common in homes and public facilities around the world. It’s clear that the tools for a cleaner, more sustainable bathroom experience are within reach—what remains is for cultural attitudes to catch up with the possibilities these innovations provide.

Cultural Shifts and Social Perception

Despite the clear advantages of moving beyond toilet paper, social norms and habits are slow to change. In some places, there remains a stigma around water-based cleaning, often due to unfamiliarity or misconceptions. However, as awareness grows and more people experience the benefits firsthand, the perception of toilet paper as a necessity is beginning to shift. Forward-thinking households and public spaces are already embracing these alternatives, leading the way toward a more hygienic and sustainable future.

The resistance to change is rooted in several factors. For many, the use of toilet paper is so deeply embedded in daily routines that alternatives seem foreign or even uncomfortable. There may be concerns about installation costs, maintenance, or the perceived “messiness” of water-based solutions. Cultural taboos and lack of exposure also play a role—people are less likely to adopt what they don’t understand.

However, these attitudes are slowly evolving. Travelers who visit countries with widespread bidet use, such as Japan, Italy, or much of the Middle East, often return home with a newfound appreciation for water-based hygiene. Online communities and social media influencers are sharing their positive experiences, helping to demystify the technology and normalize its use. Environmental awareness campaigns and shortages of toilet paper during global events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, have also prompted many to seek out alternatives.

Change is already visible:

• Hotels and airports in major cities are increasingly installing bidets or sprayers to accommodate international visitors.
• Green building standards and eco-friendly certifications now recommend or require water-based alternatives to reduce waste.
• Home renovation trends highlight bidets as a desirable feature, boosting property values and buyer interest.

As education spreads and technology becomes more accessible, the idea of toilet paper as an outdated norm gains traction. Ultimately, the shift away from toilet paper is not just about personal preference—it’s about aligning our daily habits with modern values of health, sustainability, and global awareness. By questioning traditions and embracing better alternatives, society can move toward a cleaner, greener, and more thoughtful future.