🧻 Which Way Should Toilet Paper Hang?

The classic debate is “over” vs. “under.” If you’re looking for the historically intended design, the answer is generally over—with the loose end hanging toward you.

Why “over” is usually preferred

1. Easier to grab
The loose sheet is visible and easier to tear without reaching behind the roll.

2. Better separation from the wall
Hanging over keeps the paper farther away from the wall, which can be preferable from a hygiene standpoint.

3. The original patent illustration
The 1891 patent for a perforated toilet-paper roll by Seth Wheeler depicts the paper hanging over the top of the roll. (patents.google.com)

🚽 But is “under” wrong?

Not really. There is no health rule requiring one direction. Some people prefer under because it’s harder for pets or small children to pull the entire roll down.

Bottom line: If you want the traditional and most convenient orientation, choose over. But whichever direction you use, the most important thing is good bathroom hygiene—not which way the roll hangs.