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.
