Bathroom Tissue Debate Charts

'Over or Under' Looks at the Statistics Behind Toilet Paper Styles

Moving in for the first time with a significant other can lead to petty arguments about all different things that previously seemed immaterial, including miniscule details such as toilet paper style and direction.

There are people who prefer it when the roll is facing 'over,' there are those who prefer it facing 'under' and there are those who really couldn't care less. Apparently one out of five people will get annoyed if the roll is facing the wrong direction so couples should come to an agreement about their toilet paper orientation pronto. I find 'over' to be the most hygienic and presentable method and, apparently, Jay Leno agrees with me.

This infographic gives a brief history of toilet paper and even explains what each toilet paper style says about the person.

Toilet Paper Orientation Preference
Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop a toilet paper dispenser that can automatically switch between 'over' and 'under' orientations based on user preference.
Hygienic Toilet Paper Designs
Disruptive innovation opportunity: Create innovative toilet paper designs that incorporate antibacterial properties or other features for enhanced hygiene.
Personalized Toilet Paper Customization
Disruptive innovation opportunity: Introduce customizable toilet paper options, allowing individuals to have their preferred designs or patterns printed on the toilet paper.

Industries Being Reshaped

Bathroom Accessories
Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore new materials and technologies to create eco-friendly, sustainable, and innovative bathroom accessories, including toilet paper dispensers.
Hygiene Products
Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop advanced hygiene products that incorporate features such as self-cleaning, moisture control, or scent options for improved bathroom experiences.
Printing and Packaging
Disruptive innovation opportunity: Collaborate with toilet paper brands to develop innovative printing and packaging solutions, allowing for personalized designs and improved product differentiation.
SCORE
3.6 out of 10
GENDER
50% Men50% Women
MARKETTop markets: North America, Europe, Asia
GENERATION
  • Gen Alpha
  • Gen Z (primary audience)
  • Millennial (primary audience)
  • Gen X (primary audience)
POPULARITY
Popularity 57%
Activity 44%
Freshness 8%

Solutions for innovators working at the edge of change. We help transform emerging ideas into practical, durable solutions by combining strategic thinking, creative exploration, and hands-on execution.

Trends © 2026 Trend Hunter Inc. All Rights Reserved.
LinkedIn Instagram X