Toilet paper is part of our daily lives, but do we really know how many sheets are needed for effective cleaning? Between personal hygiene and the fight against waste, the question deserves to be examined.
Each European consumes an average of 120 rolls of toilet paper per year, an impressive figure. The use of paper varies according to several criteria, such as texture, the way of wiping and individual preferences. In general, using between 4 and 6 sheets per use is enough to ensure proper hygiene without waste, provided that standard quality paper is used. For thinner paper, a larger quantity may be necessary. It is recommended to fold the paper rather than crumpling it, in order to maximize its effectiveness. A good wiping method allows for optimal cleaning while limiting the amount used. In addition, adding a rinse with water can improve hygiene standards and reduce paper usage.
Toilet paper: the consequences of excessive consumption
Overconsumption of toilet paper causes several problems. Firstly, from an ecological point of view, toilet paper represents a significant proportion of the waste of natural resources. Every day, 27,000 trees are cut down and 178 liters of water are used to make a single roll of toilet paper. Its production also requires chemicals for bleaching. Permanent pollutants were even found by researchers in 2023.
In addition, excessive use can lead to blockages in the pipes, especially if the paper is too thick or too much is used.
Economically, excessive consumption also represents an expense that can be avoided. Reducing consumption therefore allows you to save money while adopting a more environmentally friendly approach.
How can you reduce your toilet paper consumption while maintaining good hygiene?
There are several ways to reduce the use of toilet paper without compromising hygiene. The first is to voluntarily reduce the number of sheets used. By using just one less piece of paper, we can save three litres of water, according to some researchers. What can help is to choose a thicker and more absorbent toilet paper, thus requiring fewer sheets with each use.
Other alternatives exist, such as the use of a bidet or a water jet, which are very common in some countries. These devices allow a more efficient and hygienic cleaning while reducing, or even eliminating, the use of toilet paper. Finally, for the environmentally conscious, recycled toilet paper is an interesting alternative.
