There is only one right way to wipe your bum, and you don’t want to risk wiping incorrectly

Let’s face it: everyone uses the bathroom, and maintaining hygiene afterward is essential for personal health and comfort. Yet, it seems not everyone agrees on the proper way to wipe. While you might think you’ve been doing it right your entire life, experts suggest that many people could actually be making common mistakes when it comes to wiping.

So, what’s the correct way to ensure cleanliness? Let’s break it down, step by step, with input from health professionals and cultural practices around the globe.

The Basics of Bathroom Hygiene

When it comes to wiping after a bowel movement, there’s more to it than simply grabbing some toilet paper and getting on with your day. Proper technique is crucial for preventing infections, maintaining skin health, and feeling fresh. However, cultural differences and personal habits can lead to confusion about the “right” way to do things.

According to Amber J. Tresca, a digestive health expert for VeryWell Health, there is a definitive approach that health professionals agree upon: wiping front to back.

Why Front to Back Is Essential

The recommendation to wipe front to back is particularly important for individuals with vaginas. This method ensures that fecal matter is not accidentally transferred to the urethral area, which can lead to urinary tract infections (UTIs). Women are especially prone to UTIs due to the shorter length of their urethra, making proper wiping techniques even more critical.

For individuals with penises, while the risk of UTIs is lower, wiping front to back is still beneficial. It minimizes the chance of fecal matter getting lodged under the foreskin or on the tip of the penis, reducing the risk of irritation or infection.

The logic is simple: wiping front to back moves waste away from sensitive areas, promoting better hygiene and reducing health risks.

Cultural Variations in Wiping Practices

Different cultures approach bathroom hygiene in unique ways, which can influence perceptions of the “right” method. For instance:

• United States and United Kingdom: In these regions, the most common practice involves using toilet paper. Americans tend to fold the paper neatly and wipe, often finishing with wet wipes for a more thorough clean. Wet wipes are praised for providing a fresher feel but should be used sparingly due to potential environmental concerns unless biodegradable options are chosen.
• Europe: Many European countries favor the bidet, a fixture designed to wash the genital and anal areas with water. The bidet is widely regarded as one of the most hygienic options, as it eliminates the need for excessive wiping and reduces irritation.
• Russia: While anecdotes and stereotypes abound, the focus in many Russian households is also on thorough cleaning, with wet wipes or other methods sometimes taking precedence over dry paper.

The growing popularity of bidets in countries outside of Europe reflects a global trend toward using water for cleanliness. Advocates argue that washing is more effective and less abrasive than wiping, making it a preferred choice for many.

The Step-by-Step Guide to Proper Wiping

If a bidet isn’t available or water-based cleaning methods aren’t your preference, following the correct wiping technique is crucial. Here’s how to do it right:

1. Start with Clean Hands: Before anything else, ensure your hands are clean to prevent the transfer of bacteria.
2. Grab Enough Toilet Paper: Take enough toilet paper to ensure proper coverage and cleanliness. Folding the paper is often more effective than crumpling it, as it provides a smoother surface.
3. Wipe Front to Back: After a bowel movement, reach behind your back and wipe in the direction of the toilet (from front to back). This motion ensures that waste is moved away from sensitive areas.
4. Repeat as Needed: Use as much toilet paper as necessary until the paper comes away clean. If available, consider using a wet wipe for a final pass to ensure freshness.
5. Avoid Over-Wiping: Be gentle. Excessive wiping can cause irritation and microtears in the skin, which may lead to infection.
6. Wash Your Hands Thoroughly: Once finished, wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds.

For those who may have difficulty reaching around, an alternative is to wipe between the legs, ensuring the same front-to-back motion.

When a Messy Job Requires Extra Care

Sometimes, a simple wipe isn’t enough, especially after particularly messy bowel movements. In such cases, hopping into the shower for a quick rinse can be an excellent solution. If showering isn’t an option, carrying wet wipes and spare underwear can help you feel prepared and fresh throughout the day.

The Case for Wet Wipes and Bidets

While toilet paper remains the most common method in many regions, wet wipes are gaining popularity for their ability to provide a more thorough clean. However, it’s important to choose biodegradable options to minimize environmental impact. For those looking for the ultimate in hygiene, investing in a bidet can be a game-changer. Not only does it provide a superior clean, but it’s also gentler on the skin and more sustainable than excessive toilet paper use.

Conclusion: Keep It Clean and Simple

Proper hygiene is about more than just feeling fresh—it’s a crucial part of maintaining health and preventing infections. Wiping front to back is the universally recommended technique, supported by health professionals, to ensure cleanliness and reduce risks.

Whether you prefer toilet paper, wet wipes, or a bidet, the key is to prioritize a method that keeps you clean, comfortable, and healthy. And remember, no matter how you choose to maintain hygiene, always wash your hands thoroughly afterward—it’s a small step that makes a big difference.