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In 1891, inventor Seth Wheeler received a U.S. patent for perforated toilet paper. Illustrations accompanying the patent show the paper coming over the top of the roll.
That image has become one of the most popular pieces of evidence in the over-versus-under debate.
But there’s a catch.
The patent was primarily concerned with the design and perforation of the paper, not establishing an official rule for how people should hang toilet rolls. A patent expert analysis points out that the drawing alone doesn’t prove Wheeler intended to settle the orientation debate.
Is “Over” Actually More Hygienic?
This is where things get interesting.
Some experts believe the over position has a hygiene advantage because the loose paper hangs away from the wall, reducing the possibility of it brushing against a contaminated surface.
However, there isn’t a universally accepted scientific answer proving that one orientation is always more hygienic.
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