Let’s face it—bathroom habits aren’t exactly the go-to topic of conversation. Yet, they’re an essential part of our daily lives. Recently, a viral TikTok video from pelvic floor physiotherapist George at BIEN Australia shed light on a seemingly mundane but significant question: how many times should you wipe after pooping? With over 4.5 million views, it turns out plenty of people are curious. Here’s what George had to say and how her advice might just change your bathroom routine for the better.

Is There a “Right” Number of Wipes?

Yes, there is! According to George, the ideal number of wipes after a bowel movement is two to three. Anything more than that could signal an issue with your routine, diet, or even your pelvic muscles.

While wiping a few extra times might seem harmless, it can actually cause problems like skin irritation, discomfort, or even infections. Over-wiping doesn’t just waste toilet paper—it may be doing more harm than good.

What Causes Over-Wiping?

The culprit is often something called fecal smearing. This happens when small bits of stool stay at the entrance of the anus after a bowel movement, even when you think you’re done. The issue can stem from a weak external sphincter muscle that doesn’t close properly, leaving residue behind.

Over-wiping to compensate only irritates the delicate skin in that area, potentially leading to redness, sensitivity, or worse.

The “Waterfall Squeeze” Technique

If you’re an over-wiper, George recommends trying a simple yet effective exercise to reduce the need for excessive wiping:

• Start Slow: Begin by lightly squeezing your external sphincter at 20% strength.
• Increase Gradually: Progress to 50%, then 80%, and finally a full 100% squeeze.
• Repeat: Perform these squeezes at the end of your bowel movement to fully close the sphincter.

This “Waterfall Squeeze” technique helps clear out remaining stool while strengthening the pelvic floor muscles over time. It’s a game-changer for anyone dealing with fecal smearing or frequent wiping.

Alternatives to Traditional Wiping

If wiping still doesn’t leave you feeling fresh, it might be time to explore gentler, more effective alternatives:

• Bidets: A bidet offers a water-based cleaning method that’s not only more hygienic but also gentler on the skin. It’s eco-friendly and reduces toilet paper usage.
• Flushable Wet Wipes: While these can provide a more thorough clean, opt for biodegradable options to avoid clogging pipes or harming the environment.

Could Your Diet Be the Issue?

Sometimes, the need for excessive wiping can signal an underlying problem with your gut health or hydration levels. Addressing these root causes can make a big difference:

• Eat More Fiber: Incorporate foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to improve stool consistency and make bowel movements smoother.
• Drink Plenty of Water: Staying hydrated softens stools, making them easier to pass and reducing the mess left behind.
• Limit Irritating Foods: Avoid heavy, greasy meals or excessive caffeine, which can disrupt digestion.

The Debate: To Wipe or Wash?

George’s advice sparked mixed reactions online. Some people embraced the new technique, grateful for the practical tips. Others held onto their habits, with comments like:

“I’ll wipe as many times as needed until the paper is clean.”

“Why wipe at all? Just use a bidet!”

“Is wiping more than three times suddenly a bad thing?”

While opinions differ, the discussion is a step toward normalizing conversations about personal hygiene—an important aspect of our overall health.

Tips for a Better Bathroom Routine

If you’re looking to simplify your bathroom habits while staying hygienic, here are a few practical suggestions:

• Optimize Your Posture: Sitting in a squat position (use a stool under your feet) can help ease bowel movements.
• Use Unscented Products: Stick to unscented toilet paper or wipes to avoid irritation.
• Be Gentle: Don’t scrub—pat or dab instead.

Final Thoughts

Who knew such a simple question could spark such an interesting conversation? George’s advice reminds us that even the smallest tweaks to our routines can have a big impact. By limiting wiping to two or three times, trying techniques like the “Waterfall Squeeze,” and considering bidets or wet wipes, you can improve both your hygiene and your comfort.

So, the next time you’re reaching for the toilet paper, remember: less is more. Not only will you save your skin, but you might also save some cash and help the environment too!