Toilet paper has been a household staple for over a century, but that may change soon. With increasing concerns about sustainability, hygiene, and cost-efficiency, people are exploring better alternatives. Here’s everything you need to know.
Why Are People Moving Away from Toilet Paper?
| Reason |
Details |
| Environmental Impact |
Deforestation, water pollution, and high carbon emissions during production. |
| Health Considerations |
Chemical treatments (bleach, perfumes) can irritate sensitive skin. |
| Economic Costs |
Continuous purchasing increases household expenses. |
| Cultural Influence |
Many countries already use water-based methods like bidets and bum guns. |
How Much Toilet Paper Do People Use?
- Average bathroom visits per day: 5
- Sheets used per wipe: ~6.4 (women), ~8.1 (men)
- Average rolls per person per year: 50
- Annual consumption: 15–25 kg per person in developed countries
Top Toilet Paper Alternatives You Need to Know
1. Bidets – The Proven Water-Based Solution
| Description |
A water-based cleansing fixture used for personal hygiene |
| Origin |
Dating back centuries, common in Europe and Asia |
| Benefits |
Eco-friendly, gentle on skin, eliminates need for paper |
| Cost |
Moderate – installation required |
2. The Bum Gun – Asia’s Eco-Friendly Bathroom Revolution
| Description |
A handheld spray nozzle used for cleaning the intimate area |
| Popular Regions |
Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia |
| Benefits |
Low cost, easy to install, reduces paper use |
| Environmental Impact |
Minimal – uses far less water than toilet paper production |
3. Reusable Cloth Toilet Paper – Zero-Waste Alternative
| Description |
Washable cloth squares, often made of cotton or bamboo |
| Benefits |
Environmentally friendly, cost-saving over time |
| Hygiene Requirements |
Washed at 160°F (71°C) for at least 25 minutes |
| Downsides |
May stain, higher laundry load |
Environmental Impact of Toilet Paper Use
| Region |
Annual Use per Person |
Environmental Concerns |
| US, Canada, Western Europe |
15–25 kg |
Virgin pulp use, chemical treatment, water-intensive production |
| Global Toilet Paper Use |
10% of all paper production |
Major contributor to deforestation and CO₂ emissions |
Bidets and Bum Guns: Growing Global Adoption
Europe’s Eco Push
- EU legislation banning deforestation-linked products
- Symbolic protests in European Parliament using eco-friendly messages
United States Trends
- Younger generations prefer sustainable options
- Retailers are introducing bidets and bum guns to product lines
Biggest Barrier: Cultural Habits
Replacing toilet paper with more sustainable options takes time. Like the adoption of menstrual cups, this shift requires education and normalization. But the long-term environmental benefits make it worth it.
Summary: Why Toilet Paper Might Soon Be Obsolete
| Alternative |
Eco-Friendly |
Cost-Effective |
Hygienic |
Easy to Use |
| Bidet |
✅ |
✅ |
✅ |
✅ |
| Bum Gun |
✅ |
✅ |
✅ |
✅ |
| Cloth Toilet Paper |
✅ |
✅ |
☑️ |
☑️ |
| Traditional Toilet Paper |
❌ |
❌ |
✅ |
✅ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Is using water cleaner than toilet paper?
- Yes, studies show that using water (via bidet or bum gun) is more hygienic and gentler on the skin.
- Do bidets use a lot of water?
- No. A typical bidet uses about ⅛ gallon per use—far less than toilet paper manufacturing.
- Is reusable toilet paper safe?
- It can be safe if cleaned properly at high temperatures and stored in a sanitary manner.
