Water-Based Hygiene Gains Support Over Toilet Paper for Health and Sustainability

Recent findings reaffirm the benefits of water cleaning methods for reducing microbial risks, protecting skin health, and lowering environmental impact compared to toilet paper use.

• Water-based hygiene methods, such as bidets and handheld sprayers, are common in many countries outside the West and are shown to reduce microbial contamination more effectively than toilet paper alone.
• Scientific studies indicate that combining water cleaning with toilet paper offers the most thorough and hygienic results after defecation.
• Experts warn that aggressive wiping with dry toilet paper can cause skin microtrauma, leading to anal fissures, exacerbated hemorrhoids, and irritation.
• Dermatologists recommend water-based cleaning or damp, unscented toilet paper to minimize skin irritation and protect sensitive areas.
• Environmental analyses suggest that water-based methods may use less water overall compared to the resource-intensive production of toilet paper.

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