According to doctors, the way you wipe could be doing you more harm than good – and there’s a number of mistakes people are making with toilet paper every time they use the loo
Despite your years of experience, doctors are saying that most people have been wiping incorrectly.
Yep, it’s a bit embarrassing to hear, but the truth is our trusty old wiping technique might not be up to the mark after all. Alarmingly, our common toilet errors could be posing serious health risks.
Experts flag the blunder of wiping back to front, which can introduce harmful bacteria to places they oughtn’t be – increasing the risk of unpleasant infections. The advised method is a clear ‘front to back’ – moving from urethra towards the bottom, safeguarding against any bacterial transit towards the urethra.
Health was enlightened by gynaecologist Alyssa Dweck who warned, “There are far more bacteria in the rectal area; that’s why you want to avoid dragging the toilet paper in the other direction toward your urethra. Bringing this bacteria up [towards the] front can contribute to a urinary tract infection (UTI).”
It turns out there’s a ‘Goldilocks’ amount of toilet paper that ensures cleanliness, frugality, and plumbing friendliness – yes, clogged toilets are also on the list of issues from improper toilet paper use.
According to Martin Richards, director of hygienic technology Experts at SMARTi Environmental, the optimal number is around 10 sheets of toilet paper per bathroom visit. He explained: “Obviously, this can depend widely on whether it’s a number one or number two, but essentially try not to wrap yarns of toilet roll round your hand to use as this can be a waste.”
Yet, according to toilet paper manufacturer Cushionelle, stats show that folks usually use about seven sheets per wipe, a habit that might not be eco-friendly. No matter the sheet count, cleanliness is key; leaving stool behind could lead to discomfort and itching.
Shying away from scented loo roll is also advised by healthcare professionals. The fragrances might be pleasing, but dyes and chemicals in close quarters with sensitive zones aren’t ideal.
Catherine Rall, a dietitian affiliated with vaginal wellness brand Happy V, warned: “In order for toilet paper to be scented, chemicals are used, and those chemicals are not good for your body,” as cited by BestLife. Such substances could spur a storm of unpleasant issues, including yeast infections and irritation.
And let’s talk wiping methodology – scrunching versus folding? Randall Higgins, pharmacist and skincare expert at Good Glow, vouches for folding. It’s not only economical but creates a flat plane that promotes better hygiene when attending to one’s personal clean-up.
Lastly, it’s been ingrained in us from childhood that we need to wash our hands after using the toilet, but according to The National Institute of Health, you should also be doing it before you wipe yourself. This is to prevent health issues like UTIs (urinary tract infections).