Loading Page...

Do they use toilet paper in Germany?

While Europeans do use toilet paper, WCs may not always be well stocked. If you're averse to the occasional drip-dry, carry pocket-size tissue packs (easy to buy in Europe) for WCs sans TP.



Yes, toilet paper is the universal standard in Germany, and you will find it in virtually every private home, hotel, and public restroom throughout the country. German toilet paper is known for being high-quality and sturdy, often featuring 3-ply or even 4-ply layers as the "premium" standard. Unlike some countries that utilize bidets or "bum guns," Germany follows the traditional Western European "wipe" culture. One cultural quirk you may notice in 2026 is the "Flachspüler" (shelf toilet), an older style of toilet design where a horizontal shelf sits above the water line; while these are being phased out in modern renovations, they still exist in older buildings. In public restrooms, it is common to find an attendant (the "Toilettenfrau" or "Madame Pipi") where it is customary to leave a small tip of €0.50 to €1.00 on a saucer. While the paper is free, the "convenience" often comes with this small service fee, ensuring that the facilities remain impeccably clean and well-stocked for the next user.

People Also Ask

Before the availability of mass produced toilet paper in the mid-1800s, humans had to resort to using what was free and available, even if it didn't provide the most effective (or comfortable) results. Options included rocks, leaves, grass, moss, animal fur, corn cobs, coconut husks, sticks, sand, and sea shells.

MORE DETAILS

Tokyo, Japan When it comes to Tokyo's public toilets, it's safe to say that they are the world standard. Not only are the facilities extremely clean, but they also boast technological advancements. For one, their bidets have multiple buttons to adjust water pressure and angle.

MORE DETAILS

Washing with water is a much more effective and long-lasting way of cleaning, and removes more germs and bacteria than paper. Using water is a much more gentle and soothing way of cleaning after using the toilet and the feeling of freshness and cleanliness is incomparable to when using paper.

MORE DETAILS

Squat toilets are generally non-existent in Northern and Western Europe. France and Italy are an exception and have some squat toilets remaining in old buildings and public toilets because they used to be the norm there in the early 20th century.

MORE DETAILS

Tipping isn't mandatory in Germany. Instead, it's seen as a gesture of appreciation for a good experience. A tip is always welcome, but in Germany, it's usually based directly on the quality of service. If you're satisfied, leaving a tip is a way to show it.

MORE DETAILS