fact, microbiologist Primrose Freestone has argued that under may sometimes reduce contamination of the roll because users can pull and tear the paper with one hand without touching as much of the roll. Other experts disagree with that reasoning and point to the possibility of touching the wall when the paper hangs underneath.
So the “scientifically proven correct way” claim is much less certain than social media headlines often suggest.
What About Cats and Pets?
There is one situation where under definitely has a practical advantage for some households: pets.
If you have a curious cat that loves pulling toilet paper off the roll, hanging it underneath can sometimes make the roll less tempting—or at least harder to unravel.
Of course, a determined cat may simply consider that a challenge.
So, Which Way Is Correct?
If we’re talking about tradition and the famous 1891 patent illustration, the answer is:
