Should You Hang Toilet Paper Over or Under?

The article delves into the perennial "toilet paper debate" concerning whether the roll should dispense over or under, acknowledging its surprising significance in domestic life. Experts, including a psychiatrist, an etiquette expert, and a bathroom renovation specialist, weigh in on the matter, providing perspectives on psychology, hygiene, and historical context. The psychiatrist, Charles Sweet, MD, MPH, explains that the debate, though seemingly trivial, often serves as a "micro-expression of who we are." He suggests that conflicts over toilet paper orientation can stem from deeper needs for respect and listening within relationships, framing it as a battleground for unspoken tensions rather than just a disagreement about a household item. For those advocating for the "over" orientation, arguments are presented based on etiquette, logic, hygiene, and historical evidence. Etiquette expert Lisa Mirza Grotts asserts that the "over" method is cleaner, easier to access, and more guest-friendly, citing its common use in hotels and high-end venues as a sign of attentiveness. Bathroom renovation expert Rick Berres supports this, noting that the "over" position prevents hands from brushing against potentially germ-laden walls. Dr. Sweet adds that the "over" orientation is more efficient, especially for individuals with reduced dexterity or in low-light conditions, as the end of the paper is more easily located. An additional, though contested, point suggests that hanging it "over" might slightly deter toddlers and pets from unspooling the entire roll. The case for the "under" orientation is presented as primarily driven by subjective preferences, a rebellious attitude, or simply indifference. Some proponents claim it's more aesthetic, while others admit to doing it to annoy partners. Berres suggests that most people who hang it "under" do so not out of conviction but due to a lack of attention to detail, indicating that the majority don't genuinely care about the orientation. The historical perspective traces toilet paper back to sixth-century China, with mass production starting in the U.S. in the late 1800s. Seth Wheeler's 1891 patent for the perforated toilet paper roll clearly illustrates the paper dispensing "over" the top, offering a historical precedent for this method. A poll conducted by Mr. Rooter Plumbing, involving over 3,000 participants, found that 73% preferred "over," 10% preferred "under," and the remaining 17% were indifferent, confirming the strong opinions people hold on the subject. The article concludes with a definitive verdict in favor of the "over" position, reinforcing the points about superior hygiene, greater convenience, and alignment with the original patent design. It emphasizes that while the debate appears to be about toilet paper, it often reflects deeper psychological themes of control, habit, and order. The experts consulted are Charles Sweet, MD, MPH, a psychiatrist and medical advisor at Linear Health; Lisa Mirza Grotts, an etiquette expert; and Rick Berres, a bathroom renovation expert and owner of Honey-Doers. #ToiletPaper #HomeEtiquette #BathroomDebate #HygieneTips #DomesticConflicts #PsychologyOfHabit #HomeOrganization #EverydayFacts #ToiletPaper #HomeEtiquette #BathroomDebate #HygieneTips #DomesticConflicts #PsychologyOfHabit #HomeOrganization #EverydayFacts

6 months ago

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