While toilet paper is now a common place feature in the modern bathroom, its journey to become the everyday essential that it is today is interestingly varied. Why? Well, over the centuries, society, hygiene, and culture have all taken turns and shaped this humble product in ways that continue to change. What is the history of toilet paper? From old-fashioned to modern-day usages.
Early Practices: A Range of Solutions.
Long before the invention of toilet paper, different ways had been discovered to clean themselves. The ancient Egyptians commonly used pieces of papyrus, and the Romans used a sponge on a tin-a thing known as tersorium-with which to clean vessels after using it. Leaves, grasses, or corn cobs were natural materials used in other cultures. There were a lot of different practices showing creativity and local knowledge available to meet those needs.
The First Commercial Toilet Papers.
Paper for hygiene first recorded its application in China in the 6th century. The 14th century saw hygienic custom adapted and the Chinese making paper for this purpose. Not until the 19th century would toilet paper, as is known, gradually take form. In 1857, the first commercially packaged toilet paper was created by an American businessman known as Joseph Gayetty. His toilet paper came as flat paper with an aloe base for comfort and gentleness. The Roll Revolution.
In 1890, the Scott Paper Company started selling the first perforated roll of toilet paper. This product allowed for much easier use by the consumer and storage; thus, it became the product of choice. More efficient manufacturing with the capability to produce the product in roll form made it widely available in homes across America and other areas of Asia.
Technological Advances.
The 20th century developed the technology of toilet paper production. The advance in the means of production meant the development of softer and more absorbable products to suit consumers’ needs. The 1960s saw an upgrade in comfort with the invention of double-ply toilet paper, while other companies enhanced the comfort factor by infusing fragrances into their products, dyeing them, or using additives that could enhance performance.
The Green Evolution.
More recently, it has become increasingly evident that the manufacture of toilet paper is not sustainable.’ This has led to a demand for ‘green’ products made from reclaimed materials, or fibres sourced in a sustainable manner. Today, companies are introducing biodegradable and septic-safe products that minimize their ecological impact without sacrificing quality and performance.
Toilet paper has been developed ever since mankind struggled for more hygiene and comfort. From the fragile, old-time toilet papers to the soft, friendly to the ecosystem, and the now-sophisticated products available, Kingsoft focuses on innovation and sustainability while developing quality products per the customers’ needs. And so, every time it would cross your mind that you want to use toilet paper, remember its very long history and the practicality it brings in modern times.