No Matter What, Don’t Use Tissue Paper After The Toilet; Doctor Warns
A UK-based Nigerian doctor has urged people to rethink how they clean themselves after using the toilet, warning that dry tissue paper is one of the least effective methods for maintaining proper hygiene.
Dr Olufunmilayo, known on social media as OurfavonlineDoc, told his followers on X that using tissue alone often fails to clean the anal area thoroughly. He argued that this can leave residue behind, lead to stained underwear and cause persistent itching.
“The healthiest way to clean your anus after doing a poo is not tissue paper,” he wrote. “Tissue paper only removes some of the faeces and smears the rest around your anus. This is one reason why your boxers or underwear is always stained and your anus is sometimes itchy.”
According to him, washing with water remains the best option for personal hygiene, while wet wipes are a second choice. Dry toilet tissue, however, ranked as the least effective.
“The ideal and healthiest way to clean your anus is with water. The next best way is with wet wipes. Dry toilet tissue paper is the worst way,” he added.
His post sparked lively debate online. Some users agreed that water leaves a cleaner and fresher result, pointing to practices in parts of Asia, the Middle East and Africa where water is commonly used. Others defended toilet tissue as a matter of habit and convenience, particularly in Western countries where water-based cleaning facilities are less common.
Public health experts often recommend washing with water as it reduces irritation, helps prevent infections and promotes better hygiene. However, environmental specialists caution against over-reliance on wet wipes, which can clog sewage systems if not properly disposed of.
Dr Olufunmilayo concluded his message by encouraging people to adopt healthier practices where possible. “If you can afford to, or you have access to it, please always use water,” he said.
