Toilet paper is an essential item in the daily lives of most people, but there’s a lot you may not know about it. Let’s explore some interesting facts.
The Origins of Toilet Paper
Toilet paper as we know it today is believed to have originated in China. However, it wasn’t until 1857 that the first commercial toilet paper was produced in the US by Joseph Gayetty. Prior to this, people used natural materials such as leaves, tree bark, grass, or even stones.
Gayetty’s toilet paper was marketed as a medical product for treating hemorrhoids, but it quickly gained popularity, and other toilet paper brands emerged. Initially, toilet paper was sold as individual sheets, but it later evolved into the convenient roll form we know today.
There’s a lot you may not know about toilet paper. (Image: The New York Times)
Types of Toilet Paper
Today, there is a wide variety of toilet paper available. Consumers can choose based on price, style, size, color, and softness. Some toilet papers even feature decorative patterns and are infused with fragrances.
In terms of materials, there are two main types: those made from trees and those made from recycled paper. The quality of toilet paper is classified according to standards, including the number of layers, softness, strength, and disintegration in water. Toilet paper typically ranges from one to four thin layers.
Technical factors such as roughness and chemical residues also play a role in determining quality. To improve softness, companies often apply a thin coating of aloe, skin lotion, or wax to the paper.
Toilet Paper Colors
The two primary colors of toilet paper are white and natural off-white. To achieve a bright white color, manufacturers often use chemicals to bleach and whiten the paper. Some studies suggest that these bleaching chemicals may pose health risks, including cancer, if they accumulate in the body.
Medical professionals often recommend using natural, unbleached, and fragrance-free toilet paper. The brighter the toilet paper, the higher the potential risk to users.
Natural-colored toilet paper. (Image: Bamboo Bobbi)
Toilet Paper Shelf Life
Regardless of its material, paper is susceptible to moisture, light, and temperature. When stored in a cool, dry place, toilet paper can retain its quality for an extended period, even for years.
While toilet paper doesn’t have a specific expiration date, proper storage is crucial to maintaining its quality. Toilet paper that is sealed and protected from air and moisture will last longer than unpackaged rolls.
The Difference Between Toilet Paper and Facial Tissue
Despite their similar appearance and paper composition, toilet paper and facial tissue serve distinct purposes and exhibit key differences in their construction and characteristics.
Toilet paper is designed for use in the bathroom, primarily for hygiene and cleaning after using the toilet. It is soft, quickly disintegrates in water to prevent plumbing issues, and is often made from recycled paper or natural paper that has been treated to ensure safety and prevent skin irritation.
Facial tissue, on the other hand, is commonly used during meals to wipe mouths and hands, and occasionally to clean small food-covered surfaces. It is typically found on dining tables, in restaurants, and included in take-out food packages. Facial tissue must meet food safety standards, does not use ink to prevent food contamination, and is treated to ensure it doesn’t easily stick to food. It also meets stringent safety requirements to prevent skin irritation.
Source: VTC news
