Toilet Paper Orientation: Over or Under?
- By Steve Levine
- Jan 11, 2016
[no_toc]
A heated debate took place at the JAM Paper offices last week regarding toilet paper orientation. It began when someone who definitely wasn't me exited the bathroom and complained about the roll being in the "under" position (where the toilet paper is closest to the wall). This sentiment was met with very different opinions. Below I will break down the pros and cons of both orientations, followed by a survey. We will get to the bottom of this.

The Over Orientation
Pros:
- Over makes it easier to locate and grab the loose end.
- Over reduces the risk of the toilet paper or hands touching the wall or cabinet, thus improving cleanliness.
- Over gives hotels and other establishments the option to fold over the last sheet to show that the room has been cleaned.
- Over is preferred by manufacturers, who tailor their branding in that direction.
The Under Orientation
Pros:- Under makes it harder for young children and pets to unravel the roll by batting at it.
- Under is tidier because the loose end is neatly tucked away behind the roll.