Have you ever wondered if you’re placing your toilet paper correctly? If you’re like many people, you’ve probably seen family and friends argue about this for years. Should the toilet paper go “over” or “under”?
Toilet paper: why it really matters?
You might think that the way you place your toilet paper is simply a matter of personal preference. After all, everyone has their little habit or ritual when it comes to this daily gesture. But when you really think about it, this seemingly insignificant action could actually affect your health, especially when it comes to hygiene. Toilet paper is not just a household item; it can also become a carrier for germs and bacteria, especially in places like public restrooms, where hygiene isn’t always perfect.
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The “under” position, the ideal solution
According to Dr. Primrose Freestone, a microbiology expert at the University of Leicester, there’s actually a more hygienic way to use it. She recommends placing the toilet paper so that the sheet falls towards the wall (in other words, the “under” position), rather than letting it fall forward. This advice isn’t just some quirky scientist’s preference; it’s a real analysis of cross-contamination risks!
Why? Because in the “over” position, you’re more likely to touch the roll with both hands—one to stabilize it, and the other to tear the paper. This double contact increases the chances of transferring bacteria between your hands and the roll. On the other hand, when the roll is placed “under,” you can usually use just one hand, with the wall as support, reducing the direct contact with the roll.
A playground for bacteria
The situation gets even more concerning in public restrooms. You know, those places where everyone rushes to relieve themselves without necessarily paying attention to hygiene… When you think about it, toilet paper dispensers are often hotspots for bacteria. After all, studies have shown that many surfaces in public restrooms—including door handles and dispensers—are covered in germs, mostly because of the poor hand hygiene of the users before you.
Once again, the “under” position makes all the difference. In this position, you minimize the amount of direct contact with the contaminated surfaces, which can lower the risk of germ transmission. You’ll be much less likely to touch part of the roll that has already been contaminated by the person before you.
Other hygiene tips to keep in mind
But wait! The way you place your toilet paper isn’t the only thing you can do to keep your bathroom clean and germ-free. There are other simple yet effective habits to improve hygiene in your bathroom.
First, always wash your hands after using the bathroom. It may seem obvious, but many people still overlook this crucial step. Proper hand hygiene is your first line of defense against bacteria spread. And if there’s one rule you should never forget, it don’t use your phone in the bathroom. Your phone, which touches all sorts of surfaces, is a true breeding ground for germs.
