What percentage of men don't wipe? Unpacking bathroom hygiene habits

September 21, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2023 YouGov survey, 19% of American men reported not always wiping after a bowel movement. This statistic raises questions about personal hygiene practices and potential health impacts, leading many to ask: What percentage of men don't wipe?

Quick Summary

Survey data from 2023 indicates that 19% of American men do not consistently wipe after bowel movements, with significantly more men bypassing a wipe after urination compared to women. This reflects a notable disparity in reported habits that carry important health implications.

Key Points

Prevalence in the U.S.: A 2023 YouGov survey found that 19% of American men reported not always wiping after a bowel movement, and even fewer consistently wipe after urinating.
Cultural Variations: The percentage of men who don't wipe with paper is significantly higher in regions where water-based cleansing (like bidets or sprayers) is the cultural norm.
Serious Health Risks: Inadequate wiping can lead to skin irritation (pruritus ani), anal fissures, and the spread of infectious bacteria, potentially causing UTIs.
Proper Technique is Key: Health experts recommend wiping from front to back to prevent the spread of bacteria. Patting gently rather than scrubbing can also prevent irritation.
Mental and Physical Factors: Underlying issues such as mental health conditions (depression, anxiety), physical limitations, or learned habits can contribute to poor hygiene practices.
Alternatives for Better Hygiene: For a more thorough clean, consider using a bidet, wet wipes (flushable only), or other water-based methods, which are often gentler on the skin.

The Statistics Behind Male Wiping Habits

While personal hygiene is a sensitive topic, data from reputable surveys can shed light on common practices. A 2023 survey by YouGov, for instance, revealed interesting differences in bathroom habits between genders. The poll found that while 81% of American men say they always wipe after a bowel movement, 91% of women report the same. This means that roughly 19% of American men admit to not consistently wiping after pooping. The disparity is even more pronounced when considering wiping after urination, with only 22% of men reporting they always do so, compared to 90% of women. These figures apply specifically to American habits and may differ significantly in other cultures where water-based cleansing is standard.

Global Variations in Cleansing Practices

It is important to recognize that wiping with dry toilet paper is not a universal practice. In many parts of the world, including large parts of Asia, the Middle East, and Southern Europe, water is the primary method of cleansing after using the toilet. The use of bidets, handheld sprayers (known as shatafa or 'bum guns'), or simply jugs of water is common. In these contexts, not using toilet paper is not indicative of poor hygiene but rather a different, often more thorough, cleansing method. A 2024 study in Japan found that only 1.4% of male hospital participants reported not wiping at all, suggesting very low rates of neglect within that specific population. This highlights that when asking "what percentage of men don't wipe?", the answer is highly dependent on the cultural context and methodology of cleansing.

The Health Risks of Inadequate Cleansing

Regardless of the method, failing to adequately cleanse after a bowel movement can pose significant health risks. A lack of proper wiping leaves residual fecal matter on the anal region and underwear, which can become a breeding ground for bacteria.

Skin Irritation and Itching (Pruritus Ani): Incomplete cleaning or harsh wiping can lead to irritation and inflammation of the sensitive skin around the anus. This can result in persistent itching, discomfort, and even micro-tears that increase the risk of infection. Over-wiping or scrubbing too aggressively can also cause this condition.
Infections: Bacteria from fecal matter can spread to other areas. For women, this is a significant risk factor for urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to the proximity of the anus and urethra. While less common in men with a normal urinary tract, the risk of spreading infectious bacteria remains. These pathogens can also be spread via hands to surfaces and other people if handwashing is neglected.
Odor: The residue from inadequate wiping can cause an unpleasant and persistent odor, which can be embarrassing and impact social confidence.

How to Ensure Optimal Cleanliness

Achieving a thorough clean is a crucial part of personal hygiene. Here are some best practices, whether you use paper, water, or both.

Wiping Technique with Toilet Paper

Use Enough Paper: Fold a sufficient amount of paper to create a thick, protective pad. This prevents fecal matter from soiling your hand during the process.
Wipe from Front to Back: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other health organizations recommend wiping from front to back. For all genders, this prevents bacteria from being moved towards the urethra, significantly reducing the risk of infection.
Pat, Don't Scrub: The skin in this area is delicate. Harsh scrubbing can cause irritation and small tears. A gentle patting motion is more effective and less damaging.
Check for Cleanliness: A quick glance at the paper can confirm if you are truly clean. You should continue with fresh paper until no residue remains. The goal is to be clean with minimal effort.

Comparison Table: Dry Wiping vs. Water Cleansing


Feature	Dry Wiping (Toilet Paper)	Water Cleansing (Bidet/Sprayer)
Cleanliness	Removes bulk residue but may not achieve a perfectly clean surface.	Provides a more thorough, hygienic wash, leaving less residue.
Cost	Regular purchase of toilet paper.	Initial investment for installation; lower ongoing cost.
Technique	Requires proper front-to-back motion and gentle patting.	Varies by bidet/sprayer type, but generally involves less physical effort.
Comfort	Can cause irritation or chafing, especially with excessive wiping.	More gentle on the skin, reduces irritation and inflammation.
Environmental Impact	Creates waste through toilet paper usage.	Generally more eco-friendly, reducing paper consumption.
Accessibility	Available in most public restrooms in Western countries.	Less common in public spaces, though increasing in availability.

Addressing Underlying Reasons for Inadequate Hygiene

For those who neglect personal hygiene, whether related to wiping or other habits, the reasons can be complex. They range from simple lack of education to more serious underlying health issues. Some potential factors include:

Mental Health: Conditions like depression or anxiety can lead to a general lack of motivation and a neglect of self-care routines.
Physical Limitations: Conditions like arthritis, obesity, or injury can make it difficult to perform a proper wipe.
Cultural Background: Some individuals from cultures where water is used may not fully transition to dry wiping, leading to habits that are perceived as unhygienic by those accustomed to paper.
Chronic Digestive Issues: Conditions like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or other gastrointestinal problems can cause incomplete bowel movements, leading to a feeling of never being truly clean.

If you or someone you know is struggling with hygiene, it is important to address the root cause with compassion. The resources at Verywell Health can provide additional insights into healthy practices: The Healthiest Way to Wipe Your Butt After a Bowel Movement.

Conclusion: Prioritizing Health and Hygiene

While surveys offer a glimpse into the habits of the general population, the question of what percentage of men don't wipe reveals more than just a number. It highlights the importance of open conversations about personal hygiene and the varied practices influenced by culture and health. Regardless of the statistical percentage, the health implications of poor cleansing are clear. Adopting proper technique and understanding the alternatives available is key to maintaining a high standard of personal health and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is unhealthy to not wipe or cleanse properly. Inadequate cleansing can lead to skin irritation, infections, and unpleasant odors from residual bacteria.

While improper wiping after urinating poses a lower risk of infection for men compared to women, many men bypass this step out of habit or convenience. However, it can still lead to a less hygienic result.

Using a bidet or water sprayer is a form of cleansing that often replaces or significantly reduces the need for dry wiping. It is generally considered a more hygienic method.

Chronic irritation and excessive scrubbing from improper wiping can aggravate existing hemorrhoids or contribute to their development due to repeated stress on the delicate tissues.

The best practice is to wipe from front to back to move bacteria away from the urethra and to use a gentle patting motion. Wiping should continue until the area is clean.

The feeling of incomplete evacuation or a need for endless wiping can indicate underlying health conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or other digestive issues. It is advisable to consult a healthcare professional.

Wet wipes can provide a more thorough and gentle clean, but it is crucial to use flushable wipes designed for septic systems. Many experts recommend a combination of dry paper followed by a wet wipe for best results.