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The toilet paper roll debate: over or under?

Dr. Gilda Carle, a consultant for Cottonelle, says that generally, people who place their toiler paper roll “over” tend to have a more dominant personality type. And if you hang your toilet paper roll “under,” you’re more likely to be easy-going.

toilet paper
Toilet Paper image.
Olga Miltsova - stock.adobe.com

The debate about putting the toilet paper roll over or under is one with a passionate, long history, even though it may seem silly. People have been debating this topic for decades, arguing which way is the “correct” way to place your toilet paper.

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The “over” side

Historically, “over” is the “correct” way to place your toilet paper roll. Seth Wheeler’s 1891 patent shows the original placement of the toilet paper roll going “over.”

According to , 70% of people prefer this position. Many people argue that the toilet paper is easier to grab in this position. It’s also a way to have less contact with bathroom surfaces, because your knuckles could rub against the wall when grabbing a sheet from “under.” It’s also considered easier to tear when the paper is facing away from the wall.

The “under” side

Many people argue that the “under” position looks tidier than the “over” position because you typically can’t see the hanging toilet paper. The “under” position also limits accidental unrolling that can occur due to pets or children. Because the “under” position is slightly more difficult to unroll, it can be a way to use less toilet paper.

Who cares?

While this debate may seem absurd, says that roughly 50% of the population say they actively pay attention to the way they place their toilet paper roll. A whopping 20% of people say they get “agitated” when the toilet paper roll is placed the wrong way, and 19% of people even admitted to changing the position of the toilet paper roll in someone else’s house.

Dr. Gilda Carle, a consultant for Cottonelle, says that generally, people who place their toiler paper roll “over” tend to have a more dominant personality type. And if you hang your toilet paper roll “under,” you’re more likely to be easy-going.

Do you have a strong preference for the way your toilet paper roll is placed? Comment below!

Adria Peters began her position with Forum Communications Company as Audience Engagement Specialist in June 2024. Readers can reach Adria by email at adria.peters@forumcomm.com.
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