Because bathroom walls can harbor hidden bacteria, touching the wall every time you reach for toilet paper can spread germs. So, if you want to keep your hands as clean as possible, hanging it in front is a healthier choice!
The Final Verdict: What History Tells Us
Now, let’s settle the debate by stating the truth. If you want to know how to truly hang toilet paper correctly, we have to go back in time to the person who invented it.
Meet Seth Wheeler, an inventor from the late 19th century. Started on September 15, 1891, Wheeler officially patented a roll of toilet paper with perforations (small broken lines that allow the paper to tear easily).
When inventors register a patent, they must include a detailed drawing showing how their invention is to be used. Guess what Wheeler’s official patent drawing from 1891 depicted?
Patent certificate from 1891
Continued on next page:
The original design clearly shows the roll attached to the wall, with the paper hanging over it and in front (Option 2)!
Seth Wheeler designed it this way because the perforated lines are much easier to tear when the paper is hanging toward the user. If it’s hanging against a wall, friction makes it difficult to tear cleanly.
So there you have it! History, science, and the inventor himself agree: Option 2 (Over) is the officially correct way to hang toilet paper.
A Trivia for Your Next Toilet Visit
At the end of the day, whether you’re on Team Down or Team Up, the most important thing is that there’s toilet paper on the roll when you need it!
The next time you visit a friend’s house or a fine restaurant and notice a roll of toilet paper is in the wrong direction, you might smile as you learn the fascinating story behind it. You might even use this tidbit as a great conversation starter at your next dinner party.
How’s the roll in your bathroom doing these days? If it’s hanging “underneath,” maybe it’s worth a quick flip today to see how your significant other is doing! Have fun, keep it clean, and enjoy life’s little mysteries.
Thank you for visiting the site
