🧻 What Was the Old Toilet Paper Called? (15 Vintage Brands Revealed)

Ever stumbled upon a dusty, flat sheet of paper in an attic and wondered, “What was the old toilet paper called?” You aren’t alone. Before the soft, two-ply rolls we know today, hygiene was a rough-and-tumble affair involving corn cobs, Sears catalogs, and a product famously marketed as “Gayetty’s Medicated Paper.” In this deep dive, we unravel the surprising history of bathroom tissue, from the splinter-filled sheets of the 180s to the kitschy colored rolls of the 1970s that once matched your avocado-green bathroom. We’ll also reveal 15 vintage brands you need to know and explain why the term “Sani-Tissue” once ruled the rost. Whether you’re a history buff, a collector, or just curious about the evolution of comfort, get ready to wipe away the myths and discover the true names of the past.

Key Takeaways

  • No Single “Old Name”: Before “toilet paper” became the standard, the product was known by various names like “Medicated Paper,” “Sani-Tissue,” or simply “bathroom tissue,” depending on the era and brand.
  • Rough Beginings: Early commercial paper was notoriously scratchy and splinter-filled, leading to the famous 1930s marketing campaign by Northern Tissue promising a “splinter-free” experience.
  • 15 Vintage Brands: We uncover the history of 15 iconic brands that shaped bathroom hygiene, from the flat sheets of Gayetty’s to the soft revolution of Charmin and Scott.
  • Global & Historical Context: Discover how ancient Romans used sponges on sticks, Americans relied on corn cobs, and why colored toilet paper eventually faded from popularity.

👉 CHECK PRICE on:

Table of Contents

⚡️ Quick Tips and Facts

Before we dive into the dusty archives of bathroom history, let’s get the straight talk out of the way. If you’re here because you heard a rumor that “toilet paper” had a secret name, or you’re trying to identify a vintage roll you found in your grandma’s attic, here are the non-negotiables:

  • The Short Answer: There was no single “old name” for toilet paper that replaced the term “toilet paper” entirely. However, before the brand name “Scott” became synonymous with the product, it was often called “Sani-Tissue,” “Medicated Paper,” or simply “Bathroom Tissue.”
  • The “Splinter-Free” Myth: For decades, the biggest selling point wasn’t softness; it was the absence of splinters. Yes, early paper was literally rough enough to scratch you!
  • The Corn Cob Era: In the American Midwest, the “old toilet paper” wasn’t paper at all—it was corn cobs, which were so ubiquitous they had their own dedicated holders in outhouses.
  • Global Context: While the West rolled out paper, roughly 70% of the world still relies on water (bidets, lotas, or handheld sprayers) rather than dry paper.

For our fellow campers who need to pack the right gear for the great outdoors, don’t forget to check our dedicated guide on Toilet Paper for the best eco-friendly options for your next trip.

📜 The History of Toilet Paper: What Was It Called Before?

brown round hole on white paper

You might be scratching your head, thinking, “Wait, wasn’t it always called toilet paper?” Well, not exactly. The terminology has shifted as much as the materials have evolved.

The Pre-Commercial Era: “It Was Just Paper”

Before 1857, there was no specific commercial name because there was no commercial product. People used what was at hand. In the 19th-century American household, the term “scrap paper” was the most common descriptor. This included:

  • Old newspapers
  • Catalog pages (the legendary Sears Roebuck catalog was a staple)
  • Magazines
  • Envelopes

If you were wealthy, you might have used “linen rags” or “cotton wool,” but these were usually referred to by their material, not a specific bathroom function.

The Birth of a Brand Name: “Medicated Paper”

The first product to actually have a name was introduced by Joseph Gayetty in 1857. He called it “Gayetty’s Medicated Paper for the Water Closet.”

  • The Pitch: It was infused with aloe and marketed as a medical necessity to prevent hemorrhoids.
  • The Format: It came in flat sheets, not rolls.
  • The Name: It was literally called “Medicated Paper.”

Interestingly, Gayetty’s paper failed initially. Why? Because people were too embarrassed to buy something explicitly labeled for “the water closet.” It wasn’t until the Scott Paper Company introduced the perforated roll in 1890 that the product became a household staple, and the name “toilet paper” finally stuck as a generic term.

Did you know? The term “toilet paper” itself is a relatively modern invention. Before the 1870s, people just said they were “using the paper” or “using the rag.”

🧻 The Evolution of Bathroom Hygiene: From Rough Paper to Soft Rolls


Video: What Did People Use Before Toilet Paper? | Weird History Documentary.








How did we get from rough, scratchy sheets to the cloud-like rolls we know today? The journey is a tale of industrial innovation and marketing genius.

The “Splinter-Free” Revolution

In the early 190s, the biggest complaint about toilet paper was that it was too rough. The manufacturing process left tiny wood fibers that could cause micro-cuts.

  • The Marketing Win: In 1935, Northern Tissue launched a massive ad campaign claiming their product was “splinter-free.” This was a game-changer. It shifted the focus from “it gets the job done” to “it feels good.”
  • The Result: This set the standard for the modern industry. If it wasn’t splinter-free, it wasn’t worth buying.

The Roll vs. The Sheet

  • 1857–1890: Flat sheets (Gayetty’s).
  • 1890: Scott Brothers introduced the first perforated roll.
  • 1930s: The two-ply roll was introduced, adding a layer of luxury.
  • 1940s: Charmin (founded in 1928) became a household name, pushing the “softness” narrative even further.

A Camper’s Perspective

As campers, we’ve all experienced the “rough paper” of the outhouse. It’s a humbling reminder of how far we’ve come. When you’re out in the woods, you appreciate the two-ply softness of a Charmin Ultra Soft roll even more than you do at home. It’s the difference between a rough night and a comfortable one.

🏺 Ancient Alternatives: What Did People Use Before Modern Toilet Paper?


Video: What Was Used Before Toilet Paper?








If you think your camping trip is rough, imagine being an Ancient Roman or a Colonial American. The “old toilet paper” was often a far cry from what we use today.

The Ancient World: Nature’s Tools

  • Ancient Greece: Used pebbles or potery shards (known as pessoi). These were often reused by multiple people, which, let’s be honest, wasn’t the most hygienic idea.
  • Ancient Rome: The Romans were ahead of the curve with the “xylospongium” (or tersorium). This was a sponge attached to a stick, shared among users and rinsed in a bucket of salt and vinegar water.
    Fun Fact: The sponge was often left on a stick in a communal bucket, making it a vector for disease.
  • Ancient China: They were the first to use paper for hygiene around the 6th century. By 1391, the Emperor decred the creation of massive 2×3 foot sheets for his personal use.

Colonial America: The Corn Cob

In the American colonies, the corn cob was the king of hygiene.

  • Why? It was abundant, cheap, and effective.
  • The Downside: It was hard, rough, and not exactly comfortable.
  • The Transition: As paper became cheaper, the Sears Roebuck catalog became the go-to alternative. The catalog was so popular that it was often kept in the outhouse specifically for this purpose.

The “Groom of the Stool”

In the English royal court, hygiene was a job for the nobility. The “Groom of the Stool” was a highly prized position responsible for assisting the monarch with their bathroom needs. They used linen or cotton, which was the “luxury toilet paper” of the 16th century.

📰 The Rise of the “Sani-Tissue”: How Brands Changed the Game


Video: What Did People Use BEFORE TOILET PAPER? History’s Weirdest Wiping Methods | History of Toilet Roll.








The term “Sani-Tissue” became a common generic name for toilet paper in the early 20th century, much like “Kleenex” is for tissues today.

The Brand Wars

  • Scott Paper Company: Founded in 1879, they were the first to market the perforated roll. Their marketing focused on hygiene and convenience.
  • Charmin: Founded in 1928, they focused on softness. Their ads often featured the “Charmin Bear” (later) and emphasized the gentle touch.
  • Kleenex: Originally marketed as a cold cream remover, Klenex was repurposed for bathroom use during the Great Depression when people needed cheaper alternatives.

The “Sani-Tissue” Era

In the 1920s and 30s, “Sani-Tissue” was a catch-all term. It wasn’t a specific brand, but a category. It implied sanitation and disposability.

  • Marketing Shift: Companies started using the term to distance themselves from the “rag” or “scrap paper” era.
  • Consumer Trust: The term “Sani-Tissue” reassured consumers that the product was safe and clean.

🌿 Eco-Friendly Shifts: Bamboo, Recycled, and the Return to Nature


Video: Here’s What People Used Before Toilet Paper Was Invented.








The modern era has seen a return to “old” methods, but with a green twist. The “old toilet paper” is now being reimagined as sustainable toilet paper.

The Rise of Bamboo

Bamboo is the new “old” material. It grows fast, requires no pesticides, and is naturally antibacterial.

  • Brands: Who Gives A Crap, Bambooee, and Rel are leading the charge.
  • Benefits: Bamboo is softer than traditional wood pulp and biodegradable.

Recycled Paper

Recycled paper is the modern equivalent of the “scrap paper” era, but without the ink and splinters.

  • Brands: Seventh Generation, Who Gives A Crap (recycled line).
  • Benefits: Reduces deforestation and water usage.

The “No-Flush” Option

Some campers and eco-wariors are returning to the composting toilet method, using sawdust or conut coir as the “paper” alternative. It’s a return to the natural cycle of waste management.

🧶 Speaking of Colored Toilet Paper: Who Grew Up with Kitschy Crochet Covers?


Video: History of Toilet Paper.








Ah, the pink, blue, and green rolls of the 1970s and 80s. If you grew up in that era, you probably remember the kitschy crochet covers that adorned the rolls.

The Color Craze

  • The Trend: In the 1970s, colored toilet paper was a huge trend. Brands like Charmin and Scott released rolls in pink, blue, green, and even yellow.
  • The Reason: It was a way to match the bathroom decor. If your bathroom was avocado green, you needed green toilet paper!
  • The Downside: The dyes often caused skin irritation and stained the water. Plus, they were harder to recycle.

The Crochet Covers

The crochet covers were a DIY staple. Grandmothers everywhere would spend hours crocheting these covers to hide the “ugly” plastic packaging and add a touch of homemade charm.

  • The Aesthetic: It was the height of kitsch.
  • The Decline: By the 190s, the trend faded as white, unbleached paper became the norm for eco-conscious consumers.

Question for you: Did your family have colored toilet paper? If so, what color was it? And did you have a crochet cover?

🛒 Top 15 Vintage and Retro Toilet Paper Brands You Need to Know


Video: A Brief History of Toilet Paper.








If you’re a collector or just curious about the history, here are the top 15 vintage and retro toilet paper brands that defined the era.

Rank Brand Name Era Notable Feature
1 Gayetty’s Medicated Paper 1857 First commercial toilet paper; flat sheets
2 Scott Paper Company 1890 First perforated roll
3 Charmin 1928 Focus on softness; “Charmin Bear”
4 Northern Tissue 1935 “Splinter-free” marketing campaign
5 Kleenex 1930s Repurposed from cold cream remover
6 Sani-Tissue 1920s-30s Generic term for sanitary tissue
7 Cottonelle 1950s Introduced the “double roll”
8 Viva 1970s Known for strength and absorbency
9 Angel Soft 1970s Budget-friendly, soft option
10 Quilted Northern 1970s Embossed pattern for softness
1 Scott 10 1980s High sheet count, value pack
12 Charmin Ultra Soft 190s Premium softness
13 Seventh Generation 190s Eco-friendly, recycled paper
14 Who Gives A Crap 2010s Bamboo and recycled options
15 Rel 2020s Sustainable bamboo paper

Why These Brands Matter

Each of these brands represents a milestone in the evolution of bathroom hygiene. From the medical focus of Gayetty’s to the softness of Charmin, and the eco-conscious shift of modern brands, these names tell the story of how we care for ourselves.

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🤔 Common Myths and Misconceptions About Old-School Bathroom Tissue


Video: How did the Romans go to the toilet?








Let’s bust some myths about the “old toilet paper.”

Myth 1: “Old toilet paper was always soft.”

Reality: No! Early toilet paper was rough, scratchy, and often contained splinters. The “splinter-free” marketing of the 1930s was a major selling point because the paper was so bad before that.

Myth 2: “Toilet paper was always called ‘toilet paper’.”

Reality: Before the 1870s, it was called “scrap paper,” “linen rags,” or “Medicated Paper.” The term “toilet paper” only became common after the Scott Paper Company popularized the roll.

Myth 3: “Everyone used toilet paper in the past.”

Reality: No. In many parts of the world, water (bidets, lotas) was the primary method. Even in the US, corn cobs and catalogs were common until the early 20th century.

Reality: Colored toilet paper was a 1970s trend that faded quickly due to skin irritation and recycling issues. It was never the norm.

💡 How to Identify Authentic Vintage Toilet Paper Packaging


Video: What Did the Ancients Use for Toilet Paper? | Spotlight on History | Ancient Toilets.








If you’re a collector, here’s how to spot authentic vintage toilet paper packaging.

1. Look for the Brand Name

  • Gayetty’s: Look for the flat sheet packaging with the name “Gayetty’s Medicated Paper.”
  • Scott: Look for the perforated roll packaging with the “Scott” logo.
  • Northern Tissue: Look for the “Splinter-free” claim on the packaging.

2. Check the Date

  • 1857–1890: Flat sheets, no rolls.
  • 1890–1930: Early rolls, often with paper wrappers.
  • 1930–1970: Plastic wrappers, colored paper.
  • 1970–Present: Modern packaging, eco-friendly labels.

3. Examine the Material

  • Vintage Paper: Often thicker, rougher, and may have visible fibers.
  • Modern Paper: Soft, smooth, and uniform.

4. Look for the “Sani-Tissue” Label

  • If you see “Sani-Tissue” on the packaging, it’s likely from the 1920s–1930s.

🧪 The Science of Softness: Why Old Paper Felt Different


Video: Seems Like The World Is Out Of Toilet Paper.








Why did old toilet paper feel so different? It comes down to manufacturing processes.

The Wood Pulp Problem

Early toilet paper was made from wood pulp that wasn’t properly processed. This left tiny wood fibers (splinters) in the paper.

  • The Fix: In the 1930s, manufacturers developed chemical processes to remove these fibers, resulting in smother, softer paper.

The Embossing Technique

Modern toilet paper is embossed (pressed with patterns) to create air pockets that make it feel softer.

  • Old Paper: No embossing, just flat, rough sheets.
  • New Paper: Embossed, soft, and absorbent.

The Two-Ply Revolution

The introduction of two-ply paper in the 1930s added a second layer of softness.

  • One-Ply: Thin, rough, and prone to tearing.
  • Two-Ply: Thicker, softer, and more durable.

🌍 Global Perspectives: What Was Toilet Paper Called Around the World?


Video: STUNG by the Devil’s Toilet Paper!








Toilet paper isn’t universal. In many parts of the world, it’s called something else—or not used at all.

The West: “Toilet Paper”

  • USA/UK: “Toilet paper” or “bathroom tissue.”
  • Australia: “Toilet roll” or “loo roll.”

The Rest of the World: Water is King

  • Europe: Bidets are common. In France, it’s called “papier toilette.”
  • Asia: Handheld sprayers (bum guns) are standard. In Japan, washlets (electronic bidets) are common.
  • Middle East: Lota (water jug) is used.
  • Africa: Water and hands are the primary methods.

The “Old” Name in Other Languages

  • French: “Papier toilette”
  • Spanish: “Papel higiĂŠnico”
  • German: “Toiletenpapier”
  • Japanese: “トイレットペーパー” (Toiretto pēpā)

Did you know? In some cultures, the term “toilet paper” is considered impolite or vulgar. They prefer to use terms like “bathroom tissue” or “hygiene paper.”

📚 Conclusion

man in red and black plaid jacket

(To be continued in the next section…)

📚 Conclusion

A piece of newspaper is hanging on a green door

So, we’ve journeyed from the rough, splinter-filled sheets of the 19th century to the soft, embossed, and even colored rolls of the 1970s. But to answer the burning question that brought you here: What was the old toilet paper called?

The answer isn’t a single word, but a timeline of evolution. Before “toilet paper” became the universal term, it was known as “Gayetty’s Medicated Paper,” “Sani-Tissue,” or simply “bathroom tissue.” In the days before commercial rolls, it was “scrap paper,” “corn cobs,” or even the infamous Roman sponge on a stick.

We started this article wondering if there was a secret, forgotten name for the roll we all rely on. The truth is, the name changed as the product changed. The “old” toilet paper wasn’t just a different name; it was a different experience. It was rougher, less hygienic, and often a source of embarrassment to buy. The shift to the splinter-free roll by Northern Tissue and the softness marketing of Charmin didn’t just change the name; it changed our relationship with hygiene entirely.

The Verdict for Campers and History Buffs Alike:
Whether you are packing for a week in the woods or hunting for vintage collectibles, understanding this history adds a layer of appreciation for the modern convenience we often take for granted.

  • Positives of Modern TP: Unmatched softness, hygiene, convenience, and eco-friendly options (bamboo/recycled).
  • Negatives of Modern TP: Environmental impact (deforestation), cost, and the loss of the “character” of the rough, old days.
  • Our Recommendation: For your next camping trip, skip the “old school” rough paper and opt for biodegradable, single-ply bamboo paper (like Who Gives A Crap or Seventh Generation). It offers the best balance of softness, strength, and environmental responsibility. If you’re a collector, hunt for Gayetty’s or Northern Tissue vintage packaging—they are true pieces of history!

And to those who asked about the kitschy crochet covers: Yes, they were real! They were a beloved 1970s trend used to hide the plastic packaging and match the avocado-green bathrooms of the era. While they may seem silly now, they represent a time when personalization extended even to the bathroom roll.

Ready to upgrade your bathroom game or start your vintage collection? Here are our top picks for products, books, and resources mentioned in this article.

🛒 Shop Vintage & Retro Brands

  • Gayetty’s Medicated Paper (Reproductions/Collectibles):
  • Amazon | Etsy
  • Scott Paper Company Vintage Packaging:
  • Amazon | Etsy
  • Northern Tissue Retro Ads:
  • Etsy

🌿 Eco-Friendly & Modern Camping TP

📚 Books & Historical Resources

❓ FAQ

beige cowboy hat close-up photography

What is the best eco-friendly toilet paper for camping?

When you’re out in the wild, biodegradability is king. You need a paper that breaks down quickly to minimize your impact on the ecosystem.

  • Top Pick: Who Gives A Crap (Bamboo or Recycled) or Seventh Generation.
  • Why? These brands use unbleached or chlorine-free processing, ensuring that when you bury your waste (in a cathole, as per Leave No Trace principles), the paper decomposes naturally without leaving toxic residues. Avoid “flushable” wipes or heavily scented papers, as these often contain plastics and chemicals that persist in the soil.

Read more about “17 Wild Things People Used to Wipe Before Toilet Paper 🧻”

How much toilet paper should I pack for a camping trip?

This depends on the length of your trip and the number of campers, but a good rule of thumb is one roll person per 2-3 days.

  • Calculation: If you are camping for 5 days with 2 people, pack at least 3-4 rolls.
  • Pro Tip: Always pack one extra roll in your “emergency kit.” Nothing ruins a camping trip faster than running out of TP in the middle of the woods!
  • Storage: Keep your TP in a waterproof bag or a dedicated TP holder to protect it from rain, humidity, and curious squirels.

Read more about “🏕️ Are There Specific Checklists for Different Types of Camping? (2026)”

Are there biodegradable toilet paper options for outdoor use?

Absolutely. In fact, it’s highly recommended.

  • What to look for: Look for labels that say “10% biodegradable,” “unbleached,” and “free of dyes and fragrances.”
  • Material: Bamboo and recycled paper are excellent choices. Bamboo grows rapidly and requires fewer resources, while recycled paper reduces the demand for virgin wood pulp.
  • Avoid: Do not use standard supermarket brands that are heavily bleached or scented, as the chemicals can harm the local soil and water tables.

Read more about “What Is the Healthiest Toilet Paper? 🌿 Top 12 Picks for 2026”

What are the rules for disposing of toilet paper at campsites?

Disposal rules vary by location, so always check with the specific campsite or park ranger before you go.

  • Leave No Trace (LNT) Principles: In most backcountry areas, you must bury your waste in a “cathole” 6-8 inches deep and at least 20 feet from water sources.
  • Toilet Paper Disposal:
    Option A (Bury it): If the paper is biodegradable and the soil is soft, you can bury it with your waste.
    Option B (Pack it out): In high-traffic areas, desert environments, or sensitive ecosystems (like alpine zones), you must pack out your used toilet paper in a sealed, odor-proof bag (like a WAG bag or a double-bagged Ziploc).
    Never burn toilet paper in a fire pit, as it can cause uncontrolled fires or leave toxic ash.

Why did colored toilet paper fall out of favor?

Colored toilet paper (pink, blue, green) was a massive trend in the 1970s, but it faded for several reasons:

  1. Skin Irritation: The dyes used to color the paper often caused allergic reactions and skin irritation for sensitive users.
  2. Recycling Issues: Colored paper is harder to recycle because the dyes must be chemically removed, making the process more expensive and less eco-friendly.
  3. Aesthetic Shift: As the minimalist and natural design trends took over in the 1980s and 90s, the “kitschy” look of colored TP became seen as outdated and tacky.
  4. Water Staining: The dyes sometimes stained the water in the bowl, which was a visual turn-off for many consumers.

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