Toilet paper is a staple in every household, but its production has significant environmental impacts, including deforestation and water consumption. As awareness of environmental issues grows, many people are looking for ways to reduce their toilet paper usage and adopt more sustainable bathroom practices.
In this blog post, Barlow Plumbing Service, Inc., your trusted plumbing experts in Asheville, NC, will provide you with practical tips on how to reduce toilet paper usage while maintaining hygiene and comfort.
8 Ways To Reduce Your Toilet Paper Usage
1. Use A Bidet
One of the most effective ways to reduce toilet paper usage is by installing a bidet. A bidet uses a stream of water to cleanse your private areas after using the toilet, eliminating the need for excessive toilet paper.
Bidets are not only more hygienic but also more eco-friendly. There are three primary types of bidet installations:
- Standalone Bidet: This is a separate fixture positioned next to the toilet, requiring both hot and cold water connections. It's best installed by a professional plumber.
- Bidet Toilet Seat Attachment: This attaches to your existing toilet seat and connects to the toilet's water supply. It's a more accessible and cost-effective option that you can install yourself.
- Handheld Bidet Sprayer: If you don't want to replace your entire toilet seat but still want the benefits of a bidet, consider a handheld bidet sprayer. This device attaches to your toilet's water supply and allows you to control the water flow for cleaning. Handheld bidet sprayers are cost-effective and can help reduce toilet paper usage.
Install A Bidet Toilet Seat Attachment
As mentioned earlier, bidet toilet seat attachments are a fantastic option to reduce toilet paper usage without the need for complex plumbing work. Here's a simple guide to installing a bidet toilet seat attachment:
Tools and Materials:
- Bidet toilet seat attachment kit
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Teflon tape (plumber's tape)
- Measuring tape
- Bucket or towel
Installation Steps:
- Turn Off the Water Supply: Locate the shut-off valve behind your toilet and turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply. Flush the toilet to remove any remaining water from the tank and bowl.
- Remove the Existing Toilet Seat: Use a screwdriver and an adjustable wrench to remove the existing toilet seat. Keep the bolts and nuts for later use or replace them if they are worn or damaged.
- Position the Bidet Attachment: Place the bidet toilet seat attachment onto the toilet bowl, aligning it with the mounting holes. Ensure it's centered and level.
- Connect the Water Supply: Connect the bidet's water supply hose to the T-adapter or diverter valve. The T-adapter should be installed between the shut-off valve and the toilet tank's fill valve. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the fittings securely. Be careful not to over-tighten.
- Attach the Control Panel: Mount the bidet's control panel within reach, typically on the side of the toilet tank. Secure it using the provided mounting hardware.
- Connect the Bidet Hose: Connect the other end of the bidet's water supply hose to the bidet seat's inlet port. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the connection securely.
- Test the Installation: Turn on the water supply by gently turning the shut-off valve counterclockwise. Check for any leaks around the connections. If you notice leaks, turn off the water supply, double-check the connections, and tighten them as needed. Repeat this step until there are no leaks.
- Adjust the Settings: Once the bidet is properly installed and leak-free, adjust the settings on the control panel to your preferred water pressure and temperature. Most bidet seats offer adjustable features for a personalized cleaning experience.
- Enjoy Your Bidet: Congratulations! Your bidet toilet seat attachment is now ready for use. Enjoy the benefits of enhanced hygiene and reduced toilet paper usage.
2. Use A Washable Cloth
For a more sustainable option, consider using washable cloth wipes or family cloth. These are reusable, soft cloths that you can moisten with water or a gentle cleansing solution and use instead of toilet paper.
After use, simply toss them into a designated container to be washed later. Be sure to have enough cloth wipes on hand, so you always have clean ones available.
3. Try Biodegradable Toilet Paper
If you're not ready to part with traditional toilet paper altogether, consider switching to biodegradable and eco-friendly options. Look for toilet paper made from recycled materials or those certified by organizations like the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) for responsible sourcing. These options are less harmful to the environment and help conserve natural resources.
4. Reduce The Number of Sheets
Sometimes, we unconsciously use more toilet paper than we need. To reduce your usage:
- Tear or fold toilet paper into smaller pieces before using.
- Use both sides of the paper.
- Train yourself to use fewer sheets each time.
5. Educate And Encourage Your Household
Reducing toilet paper usage is a collective effort. Talk to your family or housemates about the benefits of using less toilet paper and encourage them to adopt eco-friendly practices. Consider placing a friendly reminder or a small sign in the bathroom to promote mindful usage.
6. Embrace The "Shake And Drip-Dry" Technique
After using the toilet, consider using a "shake and drip-dry" technique before reaching for toilet paper or using a bidet. Gently shake or shimmy to remove excess moisture, then use a small amount of toilet paper or a cloth wipe to pat dry. This reduces the amount of toilet paper needed for drying.
7. Use Toilet Paper Alternatives For Small Messes
For minor cleanups or when you don't require a full cleanse, consider using alternatives like toilet paper tablets, bamboo toilet paper, or even leaves if you have access to a private outdoor space. These options can further reduce your overall toilet paper consumption.
8. Teach Children Eco-Friendly Practices
If you have children, it's essential to educate them about sustainable bathroom practices. Encourage them to use less toilet paper and teach them how to use a bidet or cloth wipes if you have them installed. Children can be quick learners and become eco-conscious individuals.
Need Plumbing Help? Call Barlow Plumbing Services
Reducing toilet paper usage is not only an environmentally responsible choice but also a practical way to save money in the long run. Whether you choose to install a bidet, use washable cloth wipes, or simply use less toilet paper, every effort counts in reducing your ecological footprint.
At Barlow Plumbing Service, Inc., we believe in promoting sustainable plumbing practices that benefit both homeowners and the environment. If you're considering installing a bidet or need plumbing assistance for any eco-friendly bathroom upgrades, our team of experts in Asheville, NC, is here to help you make the right choices and ensure your plumbing systems operate efficiently and sustainably. Simply reach out to us to discuss your plumbing needs, and how we can help.
Remember that even small changes in your bathroom habits can make a big difference over time. By adopting these practices and embracing eco-friendly alternatives, you can contribute to a greener, more sustainable future while still enjoying the comfort and cleanliness you deserve.