10 Fascinating Facts About Everyone's Favorite Essential Item: Toilet Paper

1. Who Invented It?

Contrary to popular belief, toilet paper was not invented by the famous pioneers, the Scott brothers. In fact, it was invented by the Chinese in the 6th century AD. Although, we can all agree that the Scott brothers definitely made it more accessible to the masses.

2. Which Side is the Right Side?

The age-old debate of whether the toilet paper should hang over or under the roll will never be settled. But according to experts, the original patent shows that it was meant to hang over, making it easier to unroll.

3. The Great Toilet Paper Panic

During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a sudden rush for toilet paper, leading to shortages worldwide. This phenomenon has now been coined as the Great Toilet Paper Panic of 2020.

4. You're Doing It Wrong

Believe it or not, there is a correct way to use toilet paper. The proper technique is to bunch the toilet paper instead of folding it. Sorry to burst your bubble, folks.

5. The Luxurious Option

If you're feeling fancy, you can splurge on a $1.3 million roll of toilet paper, made by an Australian company using 22-carat gold flakes!

6. The Guinness World Record Holder

The longest toilet paper roll was created in China, measuring over 10,000 feet. That's enough toilet paper to go around the world twice!

7. Eco-Friendly Options

For the environmentally conscious, there are now eco-friendly versions of toilet paper made from bamboo or recycled paper. Who knew being eco-friendly could extend to the bathroom?

8. One Size Does Not Fit All

In Japan, toilet paper sizes vary depending on the public restrooms. There are smaller rolls for women's restrooms and bigger ones for men's due to the stereotype that men use more toilet paper. Interesting, right?

9. Goodbye, Embarrassing Moments

Did you know that in ancient Rome, they used a communal sponge on a stick instead of toilet paper? Thank goodness we have toilet paper now!

10. Not Just For the Bathroom

Toilet paper has many other uses aside from its intended purpose. It can be used as a makeshift phone holder, emergency bandage, or even an art medium.

There you have it, folks, 10 fun and fascinating facts about toilet paper that will surely impress your friends at your next trivia night. And next time someone asks you "over or under?", you can confidently say "actually, it's supposed to go over according to the original patent." You're welcome.