Toilet paper has been a staple in households for centuries, but recently, shoppers have noticed that the rolls seem to be getting narrower. This has caused quite a stir, with some people claiming that the manufacturers are trying to get away with providing less paper per roll. So, what’s the truth behind this seemingly shrinking product?
The Shrinking Width of Toilet Paper
It’s no secret that toilet paper has been getting narrower in recent years. The average toilet paper roll in the United States has been shrinking in size since the 1970s, and by 2014, the average width of a toilet paper roll had decreased by about 20%. This means that a roll of toilet paper that was 4.5 inches wide in 1970 is now only about 3.5 inches wide.
This decrease in width has been accompanied by a decrease in the amount of paper per roll. While the average roll of toilet paper used to contain about 1000 sheets of paper, it now contains about 700 sheets.
Examining the Trend of Narrower Rolls
So, why has toilet paper become narrower? The answer is simple: it’s all about economics. Toilet paper manufacturers have realized that they can make more money by providing less paper per roll. By decreasing the width of the rolls, they can fit more rolls on a single spool, allowing them to produce more rolls in less time.
In addition, by reducing the amount of paper per roll, manufacturers are able to reduce their production costs. This makes toilet paper a more affordable product for consumers, which is good news for shoppers on a budget.
Ultimately, the trend of narrower toilet paper rolls is here to stay. While it may be frustrating for those who are used to the larger rolls, it’s important to remember that this shrinking product is still providing the same amount of paper per roll that it did decades ago. So, while the rolls may be narrower, they’re still just as effective.