to our shared home – our planLet’s be real—toilet paper isn’t the best option for personal hygiene. It’s everywhere, sure.
But have you ever thought, “Why are we just smearing instead of cleaning?” I have.
Now, before you give me a look, hear me out—you can definitely use water instead of toilet paper. Once you try it, you might not want to go back.
So let’s dive into (pun intended 😏) why switching to water could change your bathroom routine for good.et.
The Case for Ditching Toilet Paper
Is Toilet Paper Actually Doing the Job?
Let’s be honest—toilet paper’s doing the bare minimum. It wipes, but it doesn’t clean. That’s like rinsing a dirty dish with no soap and calling it good. Gross, right?
Now imagine relying on dry paper to clean one of the most sensitive areas of your body. It’s basically like trying to clean peanut butter off carpet with a paper towel. Not ideal.
TP Can Be a Bit of a Drama Queen
Not only does TP fail the cleanliness test, but it also causes:
- Irritation (hello chafing)
- Hemorrhoids flare-ups
- Clogged toilets (every plumber’s dream)
- Environmental waste (don’t get me started…)
If your bathroom feels like it constantly smells like a paper mill and the bin’s always overflowing, maybe it’s time for an upgrade.
So… How Does Water Actually Work?
The Bidet Life
Let’s talk bidets. If you’ve never used one, you might think they’re either fancy or intimidating. But FYI, they’re basically the shower your butt’s been begging for.
Here’s how it goes:
- You “do your business.”
- You turn a knob or push a button.
- A gentle stream of water washes you clean.
- You pat dry with a towel or a bit of TP if you must.
Boom. Fresh, clean, and zero chafing.
DIY With a Handheld Sprayer
If a full-on bidet sounds too bougie, no worries. A lot of people (myself included) go for the handheld bidet sprayer, also called a bum gun in some places (yep, it’s a thing).
Think of it like a mini showerhead mounted next to your toilet.
You just aim and spray. It’s budget-friendly, easy to install, and way more effective than any 3-ply paper dream.
The Pros of Using Water Over Toilet Paper
Alright, let’s break this down. Why should you make the switch?
1. It’s Actually Cleaner
Let’s not sugarcoat it—water cleans better than dry paper. Always. I mean, would you wash your hands with just a dry napkin? Nope.
2. No More Irritation
If you’ve ever walked around post-bathroom feeling like sandpaper hit your behind, you know the struggle. Water is way gentler. No harsh rubbing, no micro-cuts, no discomfort.
3. Eco-Friendly, Baby
Here’s a stat that’ll blow your mind: The average person uses 100 rolls of TP per year. Multiply that by millions of people? That’s a whole forest down the drain—literally.
Using water saves trees, energy, and water (yes, even water—making TP consumes more than you think).
4. You’ll Save Money Over Time
TP is like that sneaky grocery item that adds up fast. Once you install a sprayer or bidet, you’re pretty much set for years. No more panic-buying 20-packs during toilet paper Armageddon.
5. Feels Freakin’ Amazing
Okay, this might be TMI, but nothing compares to that freshly-rinsed feeling. It’s next-level clean. You walk out of that bathroom like you just left a spa.
But What About Drying? Don’t You Still Need TP?
Good question. And no, I’m not suggesting you walk out of the bathroom dripping like a wet seal.
Here’s what most people do:
- Pat dry with a small towel (like a personal face cloth for your bum—keep it clean, obviously)
- Use a couple of sheets of TP (if you can’t let go entirely—no judgment)
- Air dry if you’ve got time and privacy (hey, live your best life)
So yeah, TP isn’t completely canceled, but it goes from star of the show to sidekick.
What If You’re Not Home?
Okay, this one’s real. What happens when you’re out and the only option is sandpaper-grade TP in a sketchy public restroom?
Here’s a pro tip:
- Carry a portable bidet. Yup, they exist. They look like little water bottles with angled nozzles. Super discreet, super useful.
- Keep baby wipes on hand. Just make sure they’re biodegradable and safe for flushing or toss them in the bin. (Plumbers everywhere will thank you.)
Transitioning From TP to Water: What You’ll Need
Thinking of making the switch? Here’s what to grab:
💧 Entry-Level Setup
- Handheld bidet sprayer kit (installs next to your toilet)
- Mini towel for drying (rotate daily like your bath towel)
- Small basket or hook to keep things tidy
🚿 The Fancy Route
- Bidet seat attachment (some even heat the water and play music—because, why not?)
- Built-in dryer so you can go totally TP-free
- Night light feature for late-night trips (yes, it’s a thing)
🧳 On-the-Go Essentials
- Portable bidet bottle
- Travel-size wipes
- A Ziploc bag for used cloths if you’re zero-waste-ing like a champ
FAQs (Because I Know You’ve Got Questions)
“Won’t I get water all over myself?”
Not unless you go rogue with the spray. Most people figure it out within a day or two. Practice makes perfect, my friend.
“Is it sanitary?”
Absolutely. Way more than using TP alone. Just keep your drying cloths clean and your bidet nozzle wiped down.
“Will my guests think I’m weird?”
Maybe. But some will quietly try it and later text you: “Okay, you were right. This is life-changing.” Happened to me. Twice.
The Verdict: Should You Make the Switch?
Short answer? Heck yes. Long answer? Let’s recap:
- Water is cleaner, softer, and way more eco-friendly.
- You’ll save money, avoid irritation, and feel fresher 24/7.
- Transitioning is easy, whether you’re going budget or bougie.
- It might take a day or two to adjust—but trust me, it’s worth it.
Honestly, once you start using water, going back to dry TP feels kinda… medieval.
Final Splash of Wisdom 💧
Still skeptical? I get it. I used to be Team TP, too. But once I made the switch, there was no way I could un-feel that level of clean.
It’s like discovering deodorant for the first time—you wonder how you ever lived without it.
So next time you’re reaching for the TP, just ask yourself: “Do I want to wipe… or do I want to wash?”
Spoiler alert: your booty deserves better.
Now go forth and spray—your cheeks will thank you. 😉
Can I use water instead of toilet paper for cleaning after using the bathroom?
Yes, you can! Using water instead of toilet paper is a common practice in many parts of the world, especially in Asian and Middle Eastern countries.
This method, known as “water cleansing” or “bidet use,” involves using water to cleanse yourself after using the toilet instead of relying solely on toilet paper.
How does water cleansing work?
Water cleansing typically involves using a bidet, a device that sprays a gentle stream of water to clean your private areas. Bidets can be standalone fixtures or integrated into the toilet seat.
Some people also use a small container or a handheld bidet (also known as a “shattaf” or “bum gun”) to pour water over themselves.
What are the benefits of using water instead of toilet paper?
Using water for cleansing has several advantages. Firstly, it provides a more thorough and hygienic cleaning, reducing the risk of irritation and infections.
Secondly, it’s eco-friendly as it reduces the consumption of toilet paper, which can be a significant source of waste.
Additionally, water cleansing can be more comfortable and soothing, especially for those with sensitive skin or certain medical conditions.
Is water cleansing more hygienic than using toilet paper alone?
Yes, water cleansing is generally considered more hygienic than using toilet paper alone.
Water helps to remove bacteria and fecal residue more effectively than wiping with dry paper, which can sometimes spread germs instead of eliminating them.
However, it’s essential to use clean water and to thoroughly wash your hands afterward to maintain proper hygiene.
How do I use a bidet or a handheld bidet for water cleansing?
Using a bidet is quite simple. After using the toilet, remain seated and turn on the bidet’s water spray at a comfortable pressure.
Aim the water stream to clean your private areas, and adjust the pressure as needed. If using a handheld bidet, hold it close to your body and direct the water where needed.
Can using water instead of toilet paper cause any health concerns?
Using water for cleansing is generally safe and unlikely to cause health concerns.
However, if the bidet or handheld bidet is not cleaned regularly, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria.
It’s essential to clean and maintain these devices properly to avoid any potential health issues.
Can I still use toilet paper after water cleansing?
Absolutely! Many people choose to use a small amount of toilet paper or a towel to pat dry after using water for cleansing.
This helps to avoid excessive moisture and promotes a feeling of cleanliness.
Are there any cultural considerations for using water instead of toilet paper?
Yes, cultural norms and practices can vary significantly around the world. While water cleansing is widely accepted in many countries, some regions predominantly use toilet paper.
When traveling or visiting different cultures, it’s essential to be respectful of local customs and use the facilities provided.
How can I incorporate water cleansing in my bathroom if I don’t have a bidet?
If you don’t have a bidet, there are still alternative ways to experience water cleansing.
You can install a bidet attachment on your existing toilet or use a handheld bidet that attaches to your sink’s water supply.
Additionally, some people use a water bottle with a spout to pour water for cleansing.
Is water cleansing cost-effective in the long run?
Though there might be an initial cost to install a bidet or purchase a handheld bidet, water cleansing can be cost-effective in the long run.
By reducing your reliance on toilet paper, you can save money on paper products, leading to potential cost savings over time.
Furthermore, it can contribute to environmental conservation by decreasing paper waste.
