While most of us can’t imagine life without toilet paper, one mum has turned heads by ditching it entirely—opting instead for “family cloth”—reusable scraps of fabric that get washed and reused.
Stay-at-home mum Elisabeth, a self-proclaimed “trophy wife,” swears by the method, claiming it’s saving her family a whopping £370 ($478.49 USD) a month. She took to Instagram to share her experience, racking up a staggering 51 million views in just one week.
So, how does it work? Simple: wipe, toss the cloth in a basket, and wash it instead of flushing away money. According to Elisabeth, the benefits go beyond savings—she believes it teaches her kids responsibility while reducing waste and eliminating the need for bulky toilet paper storage.
However, not everyone is on board. Thousands of horrified viewers flooded the comments, calling it everything from “disgusting” to “prehistoric.” One skeptic wrote, “If you’re spending £370 a month on TP, that poor rag won’t survive a week.”
Despite the backlash, many eco-conscious families are embracing reusable cloths. Some even DIY their own by cutting up old clothes, while others buy specially designed versions.
One family who made the switch says they’ll never go back. “We don’t throw out our underwear after one use—why should toilet cloth be any different?”
Other Ways to Cut Toilet Paper Costs
If reusable cloths aren’t for you, but you still want to save money on toilet paper, here are some practical and cost-effective alternatives:
1. Buy in Bulk
Purchasing toilet paper in bulk from warehouse stores like Costco or Sam’s Club often reduces the cost per roll. Look for sales or subscribe to delivery services to save even more.
2. Use a Bidet
Bidets have been a game-changer for many households. A simple bidet attachment can reduce toilet paper use by up to 80%, cutting costs while improving hygiene. Plus, it’s an eco-friendly alternative!
3. Choose Recycled or Bamboo TP
Switching to recycled or bamboo toilet paper can reduce costs in the long run. Some brands offer more sheets per roll, making them last longer while being environmentally friendly.
4. Opt for Family-Sized or Generic Brands
Store-brand toilet paper is often just as good as name brands but costs much less. Also, choose mega rolls or family packs to avoid frequent repurchasing.
5. Make Each Roll Last Longer
- Use fewer sheets per wipe—most people use more than necessary.
- Flatten the rolls slightly to slow down how quickly they unravel.
- Install a toilet paper dispenser with a controlled release to prevent waste, especially with kids.
Combining these money-saving strategies allows you to cut your toilet paper expenses without sacrificing comfort or hygiene!
