How many people use wipes instead of toilet paper?

How Common Are Wet Wipes in Bathroom Habits?

When it comes to post-bathroom hygiene, habits vary widely—but one thing is clear: toilet paper still reigns supreme. A solid majority of people rely on it, though there’s a noticeable gender gap. According to recent insights, 91% of women report always using toilet paper after a bowel movement, compared to 81% of men. That 10-point difference hints at distinct preferences or routines between the sexes.

But toilet paper isn’t the only player in the game. Wet wipes are making quiet but steady inroads. Around 14% of people say they always use wet wipes after pooping, suggesting a growing preference for a more thorough clean. Interestingly, only 7% use them after urinating, which shows most reserve wipes for more substantial bathroom visits.

This shift isn’t just about comfort—many cite better hygiene and skin sensitivity as reasons for switching. Still, experts often caution against flushing wipes, even those labeled “flushable,” due to their role in plumbing clogs and environmental concerns. Most end up in landfills, raising sustainability questions.

Ultimately, bathroom habits remain personal, but the data reveals a quiet evolution. While toilet paper holds strong, a significant minority are reaching for wet wipes—especially after a bowel movement. And women, as the numbers suggest, tend to be more consistent in their wiping routines, whether dry or wet.

As personal hygiene continues to evolve, one thing’s for sure: we’re paying more attention to what happens in the bathroom than ever before.