Why Western countries put up with nasty toilet paper

I’ve been getting loads of emails from my subscribers in the last few weeks asking similar questions on this topic.

Rather than keep answering them individually, it makes sense to do a post to help everyone.

So, in this article, I’ll delve into the curious phenomenon of why Western countries continue to put up with nasty,  unpleasant toilet paper. 

Despite advancements in technology and a ton of alternative options available, many Western nations still cling to this painful, ancient product known as toilet paper or toilet tissue. 

They choose to ignore the reasons why their underwear is often soiled after using toilet paper. And choose to also ignore the pain and blood caused by abrasive rubbing of their delicate skin.

I’ll explore the historical and cultural factors that have contributed to this 150-year tradition. I’ll also take you back in time to 2,000-year-old pooping habits. As well as examine the potential reasons behind the curious decision some people refuse to not upgrade their bathrooms to the 21st century. Yet.

So, grab your favourite beverage as we prepare to uncover the mystery of why so many people are still putting up with nasty toilet paper!

The Evolution of Cleaning Our Butts

Tracing The Origins of Toilet Paper Back to 6th Century China

First off, to understand the history of toilet paper, we must journey back to ancient China. Specifically the 6th century. Obviously, long before the Apple factories and the hundreds of concrete megacities you see today.

It was during this time that the first recorded use of toilet paper can be found, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of personal hygiene practices.

Let’s now explore the origins of toilet paper and its journey from ancient China to the rest of the world.

Invention and Early Use in China

Credit for the invention of toilet paper in ancient China is attributed to a scholar, calligrapher, artist, and government official who served four different Chinese states during the late Southern and Northern Dynasties. This bloke’s name was Yan Zhitui and he lived during the Tang Dynasty. 

Around the 6th century, Yan Zhitui wrote about the use of toilet paper made from hemp fibres in his book “Yan Shi Ji.” This marked the earliest known evidence of toilet paper usage.

Luxury for the Elite

Initially, toilet paper was a luxury item enjoyed by the privileged and wealthy dudes in society. It was primarily used by the imperial courts, nobility, and the elite class. Of course!!

The production of toilet paper involved labour-intensive processes, making it an exclusive commodity accessible only to those with significant resources and wads of dough.

Spread to East Asia

The use of toilet paper gradually spread beyond the elite circles in China and reached other parts of East Asia. Japan, in particular, adopted the practice of using toilet paper during the Heian Period (794-1185). However, it was still considered a luxury and limited to their upper classes as well.

Development of Papermaking Techniques

The availability and accessibility of toilet paper expanded significantly during the Song Dynasty (960-1279) in China. This period witnessed huge advancements in papermaking techniques. This made the production of paper more efficient and affordable. As a result, toilet paper became more widely available to the general hoi polloi.

The Cleanliness and Sophistication of Ancient Romans

While certain sections of the world were juggling with toilet paper, other cultures were finding modern ways to upgrade the ancient practice of ‘dunking your butt in a river’.

The Roman bathhouses were the centre of hygiene for the day. Sure, some of their practices might have been a bit strange. Such as the use of their ‘sponge on a stick’. We might pull a weird face hearing about this practice today. But imagine the alternative 2,000 years ago.

I would have easily preferred using a ‘sponge on a stick’ to get properly clean. I’d have simply dipped it in the fresh water flowing by in the channel at my feet, to get it thoroughly clean before using. Far better than having to scurry off to squat in the forest and use a fist full of leaves to smear ‘it’ around.

When discussing cleanliness and hygiene practices throughout history, it is impossible to ignore the remarkable advancements achieved by the ancient Romans.

The Romans were renowned for their commitment to personal cleanliness and the grandeur of their bathhouses, which served as the centres of hygiene and social activity. 

Let’s explore how the Romans prioritized cleanliness and the role of their bathhouses in maintaining impeccable standards of personal hygiene.

Roman Bath Houses Were A Triumph of Engineering and Hygiene

The bathhouses of ancient Rome were architectural marvels, designed to provide the ultimate bathing experience. These fancy structures boasted an array of bathing facilities, including hot and cold baths, steam rooms, saunas, and even exercise areas. 

Roman bathhouses were not just places to cleanse the body. They were social hubs where locals would gather to engage in leisurely activities, conduct business, and socialize. Nothing like shooting the sh!t with your fam boys on the crapper, right?

A Ritual of Cleanliness and Relaxation

Bathing in Roman society was not just about physical cleanliness. It was a deeply ingrained ritual. It was the foundation of mental and physical health. Bathing was seen as a vital part of maintaining good health and was accompanied by various practices such as exercise, massage, and the application of oils and fragrances. 

The Romans recognized that personal cleanliness contributed to overall health and promoted a sense of general well-being.

Hygiene Standards in Roman Bath Houses

The Romans took hygiene in their bathhouses seriously. These grand establishments were meticulously maintained, with a strong emphasis on cleanliness and sanitation. Sophisticated systems of water supply and drainage were incorporated into the design of the bathhouses to ensure a constant flow of clean water and efficient waste disposal. 

I saw examples of these amazing feats of engineering when I visited the bath houses up at Hadrian’s Wall last summer. Hadrian was the Emperor of Rome from AD 117 and spent his reign travelling across his Empire and improving it, particularly its borders. He built Hadrian’s Wall to secure the Empire’s north-western border in the province of Britannia. Basically to keep the mad Scots out of his empire.

Fascinating to say the least.  

Still to this day, 2,000 years later, you can still see how they built the ability to have a constant flow of clean water into the bathhouses to expertly wash away the nasties. 

The smart-ass Romans understood the importance of proper sanitation to prevent the spread of diseases.

Public and Private Bathing Was A Natural Way Of Life

Bathing in ancient Roman times was not limited to the elite. Both the wealthy and the common people participated in this cultural practice. While the richer dudes could afford private bath facilities in their homes. Public bathhouses provided access to bathing facilities for the society’s less fortunate.

These public bathhouses were social equalizers. They brought people from different walks of life together and built a sense of community.

The Legacy of Roman Bathing Culture

The Roman emphasis on personal cleanliness and the grandeur of their bathhouses left an indelible mark on Western cultures. Even today, remnants of Roman bathing culture can be found in the architectural designs of modern spas and wellness centres. The Romans’ commitment to cleanliness and their understanding of the link between hygiene and health set a precedent that influenced subsequent civilizations.

While the Romans did not have access to modern bidet sprayers like The Bum Gun, their sophisticated bathhouses and commitment to cleanliness serve as a testament to their advanced understanding of personal hygiene. 

And the level of hygiene these bathhouses provided was a closer equivalent to the modern Bum Gun bidet sprayer than toilet paper.

The Roman bathing culture always reminds me of the timeless pursuit mankind usually has when it comes to cleanliness. And that’s why I work tirelessly to help more toilet paper users discover bidet sprayer technology.

Ok, let’s fast forward to when toilet paper was beginning to appear in the West.

The Influence of Cultural Norms

Cultural norms play a significant role in shaping society’s behaviour. And there is no exception when it comes to toilet paper. In Western cultures, you’d think there is a long-standing tradition of valuing hygiene and cleanliness. 

My Asian friends still don’t believe me when I tell them the UK still uses toilet paper. They were brought up to believe the West is always the leader in technology. 

That may be the case with many things. But not when it comes to butt hygiene my friends!!

Delving deeper into this aspect, we can see how cultural norms have influenced hygiene practices and the perception of cleanliness.

During the 19th century, Western cultures began placing a growing emphasis on personal hygiene and cleanliness. This focus on cleanliness was driven by various factors, including advancements in medical knowledge and a desire to distance themselves from perceived “uncivilized” practices of other cultures. As a result, specific cultural norms and values emerged that influenced hygiene practices and products.

Let’s look at a few examples of Western cultures valuing cleanliness over the last few centuries…

Victorian England

Victorian England was characterised by a strong emphasis on propriety, decorum, and cleanliness. The middle and upper classes, in particular, wanted to distance themselves from the perceived filth and unhygienic practices associated with lower social classes. Remember, at this time it wasn’t uncommon for people to turf their collection of bodily fluids out onto the street. I wonder if they ever looked before throwing a bucket full of poop out of a top floor window onto the street below.

Cleanliness became a marker of social status and refinement. The Victorian era saw the rise of personal hygiene products and practices, including the use of perfumes, scented soaps, and thankfully…regular bathing.

American Puritanism

In early America, Puritan beliefs heavily influenced hygiene practices. Puritans placed a strong emphasis on personal purity as a reflection of moral character. They believed that cleanliness and orderliness were essential for leading a godly life. Consequently, individuals were encouraged to practice regular bathing and maintain cleanliness in their homes and communities.

The Rise of Sanitation Movements

In the late 19th century, Western societies experienced a significant shift towards improved public health and sanitation. The understanding of the link between cleanliness and disease prevention grew, leading to the emergence of sanitation movements. 

These movements aimed to combat the spread of infectious diseases by promoting cleanliness and proper waste disposal. 

In London, the ‘Great Stink’ of 1858 drove the government to take action. Toilet waste from over two million London residents was pouring into the River Thames on a daily basis. The hot summer that year made the stink even worse. Eventually, engineers were employed to build the great sewers of London. 

Other governments and organizations also focused on improving their sanitation infrastructure with sewer systems and clean water supplies.

These examples highlight the cultural values and norms prevalent during the 1800s that contributed to the emphasis on cleanliness in Western societies. The desire to distance oneself from unhygienic practices, the association of cleanliness with social status, and the recognition of the health benefits of cleanliness all played a role in shaping Western cultures’ approach to personal hygiene.

It is within this historical context that the adoption of toilet paper as a symbol of cleanliness in Western countries can be understood. Despite its limitations, toilet paper became entrenched as a cultural norm, and breaking away from this 19th century tradition has proven very challenging for some folk.

The introduction of toilet paper was seen as a step toward achieving higher standards of sanitation, despite its rough texture and limited effectiveness.

The Power of Advertising

Advertising has a remarkable ability to shape consumer preferences and create a demand for specific products. In the case of toilet paper, massive corporations in their ivory towers invest millions of dollars in marketing campaigns that promote the use of their particular brand. Through catchy jingles, clever slogans, and endorsements by famous celebrities, they successfully ingrain the idea that toilet paper is the epitome of cleanliness and comfort. Yuk!!

The Paradox of Western Countries’ Attachment to Toilet Paper

Comfort vs. Convenience

While it is bizarre that many Western countries persist with rough, old toilet paper, there are several factors at play. One such factor is the perception of comfort. Despite its rough texture, some individuals associate the use of toilet paper with a sense of familiarity and find it preferable to alternative options such as bidets or wet wipes.

Fear of Change

Humans are creatures of habit, and change can often be met with resistance. It’s the same with most new products. I remember when microwave ovens first came out. Many people refused to use them thinking they’d get cancer from eating food cooked in them. It was the same when mobile phones first came on the market. Early adopters of mobile phones were ridiculed. Most people laughed at the “idiot yuppies” and their daft-looking phones, the size of their forearms. Who doesn’t have a phone now?

And it’s the same with The Bum Gun bidet sprayer. For those who have never tried one, they make up all sorts of weird reasons for not trying this smart device. “Urhh, water, yuk.

And the ones who have tried The Bum Gun, swear they’ll NEVER return to toilet paper willingly.

The continued use of toilet paper in Western countries can be attributed, in part, to a fear of deviating from established norms. Switching to alternative methods requires a significant shift in mindset, which many are slow to undertake. But change is happening. 

Final thoughts on why Western countries put up with toilet paper

It made me laugh writing this post. Especially the parts about the wealthy nobility saving their crappy toilet paper for themselves. However, I bet those with the last laugh were the poor underclasses living in the countryside and on the farms throughout China and Japan who didn’t have access to toilet paper.

Instead, they probably washed themselves ‘properly’ in the lakes and streams close to their homes. Isn’t it ironic that the not-so-privileged were actually cleaner than their ruling overlords? 

The question of why Western countries put up with nasty toilet paper has multiple layers. Historical factors, cultural norms, advertising influence, and fear of change all contribute to the enduring popularity of this uncomfortable bathroom essential. 

However, as environmental concerns grow and awareness about alternative options increases, a shift toward more sustainable and comfortable alternatives is gradually taking place. 

By embracing eco-friendly alternatives, promoting public education, and investing in infrastructure improvements, Western countries can move toward a future where individuals no longer have to put up with nasty toilet paper.

Go on, hit that link above. You won’t regret testing The Bum Gun bidet sprayer. I promise you that. You have a full 60 days to test your sprayer. Then a long 5-year warranty taking you close to 2030 before you need to replace it.

Just imagine how much toilet paper you’d have to buy from now till 2030. A small fortune wasted, down the toilet. Don’t keep making that mistake.

Invest in The Bum Gun Today!

You Deserve To Be ‘Show Fresh’ Clean After Every Poop.

FAQs about Why Western Countries Put Up with Toilet Paper

1. Is toilet paper the only option in Western countries?

No, toilet paper is not the only option in Western countries. Standalone bidets, Japanese toilet seats and especially bidet sprayers are gaining popularity as alternatives to traditional toilet paper.

2. Are there any health risks associated with using toilet paper?

Using rough toilet paper can potentially cause skin irritation and discomfort. Many people complain their skin is cut when using toilet paper. And remember, you’re not getting all the poop and bacteria off your private parts before pulling your underwear back up.

3. Why haven’t Western countries adopted bidet sprayers yet?

The adoption of bidet sprayers has been slower in some Western countries. But many people are catching on slowly. 

4. Are there any initiatives to promote alternatives to toilet paper in the West?

Yes, there are initiatives aimed at promoting alternatives to nasty toilet paper in Western countries. Environmental organizations and advocates for sustainable living are actively raising awareness about the impact of traditional toilet paper on forests and ecosystems. They promote the use of eco-friendly options such as recycled toilet paper, bamboo toilet paper, and reusable cloth wipes. These initiatives encourage individuals to make conscious choices that prioritize both comfort and environmental sustainability.

5. How can Western countries transition away from nasty toilet paper?

Transitioning away from nasty toilet paper requires a combination of individual choices and systemic changes. On an individual level, people can opt for eco-friendly alternatives like The Bum Gun and support sustainable brands. Also, governments and institutions can invest in updating restrooms to include bidet sprayers. Public education campaigns can also play a crucial role in dispelling myths and misconceptions about using ‘water to clean’ and the benefits of an increased level of personal hygiene to help more people understand the benefits of upgrading to this 21st-century technology.

6. Can’t I just use wet-wipes?

Wet wipes are often softer and more gentle on the skin, reducing the risk of irritation. And yes, probably better to use wet-wipes than toilet paper. However, there is one huge problem with wet-wipes. They don’t break down like toilet paper. Companies lie that they are flushable, but they are most definitely not. Just ask companies like Thames Water in London. They are spending millions of pounds every year to clean our sewers of ‘fat-bergs’ made mostly from wet-wipes. Don’t be a part of the problem. If you have to use them, discard them responsibly in a bin. Do NOT flush them. 

7. Why should I invest in The Bum Gun bidet sprayer?

You just have to test drive The Bum Gun and you’ll know exactly why I’m so passionate about helping more people discover bidet sprayer technology. The Bum Gun truly is the future. It is the King of Bathroom Hygiene in the 21st century.  The Bum Gun provides a more thorough and hygienic cleansing experience with an invigorating jet-stream of fresh, clean water. Why would you not want to be perfectly clean after every poop instead of putting up with smearing the ‘doo’ around?