Here’s the correct way to hang the toilet paper roll

Over or under? That’s been the never-ending debate. My husband is an engineer and claims it’s under, because you get more and only need one hand to tear. I say over, because then you use less and don’t have to fumble around looking for the end. So which way is correct?

Behold the toilet-paper roll patent. Filed and published in 1891 by inventor Setti Wheeler, the drawing shows the toilet paper should go “over.”

toilet paper roll patent drawing
Google

MORE: Here’s where most people stand on the toilet paper ‘over or under’ debate

Introduced in the 6th century AD, the Chinese were the first ones to use sheets of toilet paper. In 1875, Joseph Gayetty sold flat sheets of medicated paper. So before Wheeler’s idea, toilet paper was manufactured as individual squares, not on a roll like we are familiar with today – neat, right?

Interesting fact: Wheeler is also the guy that patented the perforation, so he’s the reason we get those clean little squares when torn off the roll.

Now onto the next debate: extra soft or extra strong?

MORE: The Best Toilet Paper Holders

Photo by macaron*macaron(Est Bleu2007)

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About the Author
C.M. Tenhundfeld
Animal Lover. Triathlete. Scuba Diver. Master Griller. Quirky Perfectionist. I believe talk is cheap, so I lead by example and let my work speak for itself. Naturally curly hair and a leftie – what else would you like to know?

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