Ron the Yarn Spinner

 

Roll Call

 

No statutes have been erected to honor him, but  we owe this man a sincere debt of gratitude and much more than a mere  tip-of-the-hat. His invention personally touches us  in everyday life, especially when we are on the “go.” Yet few know the inventor’s name  nor what he did  in the name of personal hygiene. Joesph Gayetty invented what we know today as modern day toilet paper.

It was 1857 and his toilet paper came in flat sheets like the flushable wipes available today. The Scott Paper Company put the paper on a roll in 1890 and since then, a  surprisingly extensive variety of toilet paper has become available catering to different needs and preferences. Here are some common types:

 

1-Ply Toilet Paper: Single layer of paper, usually less expensive and often used in commercial settings.

2-Ply Toilet Paper: Two layers of paper, providing more softness and absorbency compared to 1-ply.

3-Ply Toilet Paper: Three layers, offering maximum softness and strength, considered a luxury option.

Recycled Toilet Paper: Made from recycled paper products, environmentally friendly.

Bamboo Toilet Paper: Made from bamboo, a sustainable and renewable resource.

Unbleached Toilet Paper: Made without chlorine or bleach, reducing chemical exposure.

Scented Toilet Paper: Infused with fragrances, often to enhance bathroom freshness.

Colored Toilet Paper: Available in various colors, though less common due to concerns about dyes and chemicals. Brands like Renova and Sassy Duck are claimed to be known for offering a range of colored toilet paper.

 

Toilet paper has other uses ( besides the obvious): As a substitute for facial tissue, or to remove make-up, for example.

Here’s one that’s most unusual:

There have been reports of toilet paper being used to convey secret messages, especially during times of war and imprisonment. One notable instance involves World War II prisoners of war (POWs). POWs often faced severe restrictions on communication, and toilet paper became an unexpected medium for secret messages. The paper's ubiquitous presence and inconspicuous nature made it a convenient material for covert correspondence.

In   documented cases, prisoners wrote messages on toilet paper using tiny handwriting, then smuggled these messages out through various means, such as in the seams of clothing or hidden in personal items. These messages could contain critical information, updates, or even coded intelligence intended for allied forces.

The practice is a testament to human ingenuity in desperate situations, highlighting how everyday objects can be used for other purposes. Some toilet paper manufacturers picked up on this idea after the war and put messages inside toilet paper tubes as a fun or promotional feature.

Quilted Northern sometimes adds funny or inspirational messages inside their toilet paper tubes to entertain consumers and enhance the brand experience. Other brands have also put messages inside tubes for promotional campaigns or even contests, encouraging customers to check inside the tube for a chance to win prizes or obtain discounts.

These messages are intended to add an unexpected and pleasant surprise for consumers, creating a memorable interaction with the product. Something like the toy in the Cracker Jack box, I guess.

What’s in your tube?

 

 

One funny story about toilet paper comes from an incident during World War II involving the U.S. Navy. In 1945, the USS Haddock, a submarine, had to cut a war patrol short because they ran out of toilet paper. This created a significant problem for the crew, leading the ship's supply officer to send a humorous but urgent message to the Pacific Fleet's headquarters:

"We have enough fuel to remain at sea for forty more days. However, we have only 10 rolls of toilet paper. . ."

The Navy responded promptly with a resupply, but the incident underscored the importance of such a mundane item. The message illustrates how even in the middle of a war, the lack of essential daily supplies can lead to amusing and memorable moments.

 

Meme:

How About Glow-in-the-Dark Toilet Paper?

Yes, perfect for those late-night trips to the bathroom; glow-in-the-dark toilet paper is designed to light up in the dark, making it easier to find without turning on the lights.

 

Just look for the glow when you have to go.

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