The headline makes a simple household question sound more dramatic than it is. There is no medically or universally “correct” direction, but there is a clear design preference.
🧻 Over or under?
Over—with the loose end hanging over the top—is generally the more practical choice.
Why?
- Easier to grab and tear a sheet.
- You don’t have to reach behind the roll.
- It’s easier to see and control how much paper you’re using.
- The original 1891 patent illustration for a perforated toilet-paper roll is commonly cited as showing the paper over the top.
What about hygiene?
There isn’t strong evidence that hanging toilet paper one way or the other makes a meaningful difference to household health. However, if the loose end is touching a wall or other surface, it can pick up contamination regardless of orientation.
If you’re particularly concerned about hygiene, keep the loose end away from surfaces and wash your hands after using the toilet.
Bottom line: Hang it over if you want the easiest access, but “under” isn’t wrong. The important thing is whichever direction works best for your bathroom and household.
