For over a century, households have been divided over a seemingly trivial yet surprisingly contentious issue: the correct orientation of toilet paper on its holder. Should the loose end hang over the top or drape under and behind the roll? This debate has sparked countless discussions, humorous arguments, and even social media polls. However, a 134-year-old patent appears to have settled the matter definitively.
The modern concept of perforated toilet paper can be traced back to Seth Wheeler of Albany, New York. In 1871, Wheeler’s Albany Perforated Wrapping Paper Company patented the idea of perforated paper, allowing for individual sheets to be torn off easily. This innovation was a significant improvement over the previously used flat sheets or non-perforated rolls.
Building upon this idea, Wheeler was granted U.S. Patent No. 465,588 on December 22, 1891, for a “Toilet-Paper Roll.” This patent detailed a roll of connected sheets with perforations, designed to be dispensed from a holder. Importantly, the patent included illustrations showing the paper hanging over the top of the roll, not under.
The illustrations in Wheeler’s 1891 patent have been cited as the definitive answer to the over vs. under debate. Each diagram clearly depicts the paper’s loose end draped over the top of the roll, suggesting that this was the intended orientation. While the patent’s text does not explicitly state the preferred hanging method, the visual representations leave little room for interpretation.
In 2015, writer Owen Williams brought renewed attention to this patent by sharing its images on social media, reigniting discussions and prompting many to reconsider their toilet paper habits.
Beyond the patent’s illustrations, several practical reasons support the ‘over’ orientation:
- Ease of Access: Hanging the paper over makes it easier to grasp and tear off a sheet, especially in low-light conditions or for individuals with limited dexterity.
- Hygiene: The ‘over’ position prevents the loose end from brushing against the wall, reducing the risk of transferring germs.
- Aesthetics: Hotels and upscale establishments often use the ‘over’ method, sometimes folding the end into a neat triangle, adding a touch of elegance.
- Reduced Waste: It’s easier to see and control the amount of paper being used, potentially reducing unnecessary waste.
Despite the compelling evidence and practical advantages of the ‘over’ orientation, some individuals prefer the ‘under’ method. Common reasons include:
- Pet Owners: Those with cats or small children argue that the ‘under’ position makes it harder for curious paws or hands to unroll the entire roll.
- Aesthetic Preferences: Some believe the ‘under’ method offers a tidier appearance, with the loose end tucked away.
- Habit: For many, the chosen orientation is simply a matter of habit or how they were taught.
While personal preferences will always play a role, the historical evidence provided by Seth Wheeler’s 1891 patent offers a clear answer to the age-old debate: the toilet paper should hang over the top of the roll. This orientation not only aligns with the inventor’s original design but also offers practical benefits in terms of accessibility, hygiene, and aesthetics.
So, the next time you find yourself replacing a roll, consider the wisdom of history and hang it ‘over.’
