Overview

• Water-based hygiene methods, such as bidets and handheld sprayers, are common in many countries outside the West and are shown to reduce microbial contamination more effectively than toilet paper alone.
• Scientific studies indicate that combining water cleaning with toilet paper offers the most thorough and hygienic results after defecation.
• Experts warn that aggressive wiping with dry toilet paper can cause skin microtrauma, leading to anal fissures, exacerbated hemorrhoids, and irritation.
• Dermatologists recommend water-based cleaning or damp, unscented toilet paper to minimize skin irritation and protect sensitive areas.
• Environmental analyses suggest that water-based methods may use less water overall compared to the resource-intensive production of toilet paper.