In many countries, people prefer alternatives to toilet paper. For example, in Indonesia, the Philippines, Thailand, and India, bathrooms often feature a plastic dipper, and Japan boasts toilets with built-in cleansing seats that replace bidets. Here’s why toilet paper is less popular in these regions, considering both cultural and medical reasons.
1. It May Lead to Urinary Infections
Poor wiping habits with toilet paper can spread bacteria, especially in women. Wiping from back to front can transfer bacteria to the urethra, increasing the risk of urinary infections. Using a bidet or wet wipes can help avoid these problems.
2. The Plumbing Is Not Made for Paper
In many Asian countries, the plumbing systems aren’t designed to handle toilet paper. Flushing paper can cause sanitary issues, so people use water bowls, bidets, or bidet showers instead. If you see a bin in the bathroom, it’s likely there to collect toilet paper rather than flush it.
3. It Can Cause Irritation
Toilet paper, especially if not soft, can irritate the skin, particularly for those with haemorrhoids or fissures. Water is gentler and can relieve pressure in the perianal area.
4. It’s Not Environmentally Friendly
In the USA alone, about 36.5 billion rolls of toilet paper are used annually, resulting in the pulping of around 15 million trees. This also consumes vast amounts of water, bleach, energy, and packaging materials. Experts suggest that using bidets is more eco-friendly.
5. It Has Cultural Significance
In Muslim countries, washing after defecation is part of Islamic toilet etiquette. This practice is also culturally ingrained in India.
6. It’s Not Hygienic Enough
Water is considered more hygienic than toilet paper. Toilet paper doesn’t always remove all faecal matter, so wiping alone may not be sufficient for cleanliness.
Understanding these reasons helps explain why many countries choose water-based cleaning methods over toilet paper, highlighting both practical and cultural considerations.