The country that first used something resembling toilet paper was China.
History of Toilet Paper
While we use toilet paper frequently today, it's interesting to note where it all began. The idea of using paper for hygiene purposes didn't originate recently but has a rich history dating back many centuries.
Early Use in China
- 6th Century: The first recorded use of materials similar to toilet paper was in China during the 6th century. This indicates that the practice of using paper for cleaning was already emerging.
- 14th Century: The mass production of paper for wiping purposes began in the 14th century in China, showcasing the significant scale of this practice within the country.
Other Early Materials
Before paper, people used various materials for cleaning purposes, including:
- Leaves
- Water
- Sticks
- Cloths
Table Summarizing the Findings
| Era | Region | Material Used | Key Point |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6th Century | China | Paper-like | First recorded use |
| 14th Century | China | Paper | Mass production began |
As such, based on the available information, the earliest evidence of using paper for hygiene purposes comes from China, with its widespread usage significantly predating the rest of the world.
