The orientation of toilet paper, a seemingly minor household detail, has surprisingly become a topic of passionate debate. Central to this discussion is a simple yet divisive question:
Should toilet paper hang over or under the roll?
Originating in the late 19th century, this debate extends beyond personal preference, touching on aspects of practicality, aesthetics, and even personality.
Advocates for 'over' emphasize ease of access and hygiene, while 'under' supporters tout tidiness and pet-proofing advantages.
This choice, often a topic of light-hearted banter, can also reflect deeper insights into individual traits and habits.
We delve into the history, science, and psychology behind this everyday decision, revealing how such a trivial choice might offer unexpected insights into our personalities.
The Origin of the Toilet Paper Debate
The roots of the toilet paper orientation debate can be traced back to the late 19th century, notably linked to an 1891 patent by New York businessman Seth Wheeler [1].
Recognized as a pivotal figure in the toilet paper industry, Wheeler patented the first perforated toilet paper rolls. His Albany Perforated Wrapping Paper Company, established in 1877, marked the beginning of a new era in personal hygiene.
Wheeler's 1891 patent, in particular, is critical to the over vs. under debate. The patent included an illustration that clearly depicted the toilet paper hanging in the 'over' position.
This visual representation in the official document is often cited as evidence that the 'over' orientation was the intended design by the inventor himself.
This detail from Wheeler’s patent has since served as a historical reference point in the ongoing debate about the correct way to hang toilet paper.
The Evolution of Toilet Paper Usage
The evolution of toilet paper is a story of innovation and changing societal norms. Prior to the advent of Wheeler's perforated rolls, people relied on various materials for personal cleaning.
Among these were aloe-infused hemp sheets, a method that, while effective, was significantly different from the paper-based solutions that followed.
Wheeler’s invention was a significant leap forward, replacing the less sanitary and less convenient methods with something that was both hygienic and easy to use.
His perforated rolls offered a level of comfort and cleanliness that was previously unattainable, reflecting a broader trend towards modernization and improved public health standards in the late 19th and early 20th centuries
Health Implications of Toilet Paper Orientation
The way toilet paper is hung can have more significant health implications than one might expect. Research and scientific opinions suggest that hanging toilet paper in the 'under' position can increase the risk of bacteria spread [2].
This is primarily because, in the 'under' orientation, a user's fingers are more likely to brush against the wall, potentially leaving bacterial deposits. In contrast, the 'over' position typically means the fingers only touch the paper they will use, reducing this risk.
The effectiveness of handwashing is crucial in this context. Studies have shown that many people do not wash their hands thoroughly enough to remove bacteria effectively.
Proper handwashing requires scrubbing with soap for at least 20 seconds, yet most people fall short of this standard. The implications are significant, especially in settings where hygiene is paramount, such as healthcare facilities and food preparation areas.
Workplace Health Concerns
In the workplace, the orientation of toilet paper and resulting restroom hygiene can have far-reaching consequences. Poor restroom hygiene can lead to the spread of food poisoning bacteria, affecting not only the health of employees but also posing legal liabilities for employers.
Employers can be held accountable for food poisoning outbreaks in the workplace, with affected employees eligible for worker's compensation and possibly pursuing legal action in severe cases.
The spread of food poisoning due to improper toilet paper positioning and subsequent poor hand hygiene is a serious concern [3].
While most food poisoning cases resolve within a day, some can lead to severe health issues, including brain damage or even death in extreme scenarios.
This highlights the need for careful consideration of restroom hygiene practices, including the seemingly minor detail of how toilet paper is hung.
Psychological Insights
The choice between hanging toilet paper over or under may subtly reveal aspects of an individual's personality. You don't need a toilet paper personality test - you have us. We're bringing a new definition to toilet humour.
While this might seem far-fetched, the preferences people have for toilet paper orientation can be linked to broader personality traits, such as their approach to organization, adaptability, and even their interactions with others
Preference for 'Over'
This is the great toilet paper debate, and those who have their roll in this position have more of a take-charge attitude to life. It's incredible what your toilet roll alignment can say about you (and it's great when you visit other people's houses).
- Tidiness and Orderliness: Those who prefer the 'over' method often value tidiness and order. This choice can indicate a preference for things being in their place and easily accessible.
- Convenience and Practicality: The 'over' position is often seen as more practical. It allows for easy tearing of sheets without the roll touching the wall, which might appeal to pragmatic individuals.
- Hygiene-Conscious: As highlighted in the scientific perspective, the 'over' position can reduce the spread of bacteria. This choice might reflect a heightened awareness of hygiene and cleanliness.
Preference for 'Under'
Submissive people tend to have their toilet paper in this position, and it is one of several interesting toilet paper traits you might be interested in learning more about.
- Pet Owners and Childproofing: The 'under' method is less prone to unravelling when swatted by pets or pulled by children. This preference could suggest a practical approach to dealing with real-life household challenges.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Some people find the 'under' position offers a more streamlined look, which might appeal to individuals with a keen eye for design and aesthetics.
- Resistance to Change: In some cases, preferring 'under' might indicate comfort with tradition or resistance to change, especially if this was the method learned in childhood
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Should You Hang Your Toilet Paper Roll?
Hanging toilet paper is essential for maintaining proper hygiene and convenience in restrooms. How it is hung, whether over or under, can impact the ease of access and reduce the spread of bacteria, which is especially important in shared bathroom environments.
Additionally, hanging toilet paper correctly according to personal preference can reflect one's attention to detail and consideration for others who use the same space.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the way we hang toilet paper, a seemingly mundane choice, carries with it historical significance, health implications, and even insights into our personalities.
There are so many surveys for how you hang your paper, which can tell you whether you have a dominant personality or prefer a rich roll. Having a personality test based on toilet paper is not so weird - but it certainly has interesting results.
It's a small detail that, upon closer examination, reveals broader themes about hygiene practices, workplace health concerns, and the subtle expressions of our individual traits. Understanding these aspects can lead to more informed choices, even in the simplest aspects of our daily routines.
Sources:
- Cottonelle.com. (2022). Unraveling the History of Toilet Paper | Cottonelle® Canada. [online] Available at: https://www.cottonelle.com/en-ca/tips-advice/toilet-paper-101/toilet-paper-history [Accessed 17 Nov. 2023].
- Specktor, B. (2020). Confirmed: This Is How You Should Hang Your Toilet Paper. [online] Reader’s Digest. Available at: https://www.rd.com/article/hanging-toilet-paper-wrong/ [Accessed 17 Nov. 2023].
James, G. (2017). The Correct Way to Hang Toilet Paper, According to Science. [online] Inc.com. Available at: https://www.inc.com/geoffrey-james/the-correct-way-to-hang-toilet-paper-according-to-.html [Accessed 17 Nov. 2023]
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