In brief
Japan’s Toto, a leading toilet manufacturer, has advised users not to wipe its toilet seats with toilet paper, citing risks of micro scratches and discoloration. This guidance follows numerous complaints on social media, as the company asserts that using soft, damp cloths is a safer cleaning method. Despite looking into more durable materials, Toto plans to continue using its current plastic resin for the time being.
Japanese company Toto, known for its innovative toilets with features like heated seats and automatic flushes, has recently issued a cautionary statement regarding toilet seat maintenance. The brand advises users to avoid wiping their plastic resin toilet seats with toilet paper to prevent the formation of micro scratches. This alert comes in response to rising complaints on social media regarding scratches and discoloration of their products.Toto representatives explained in an interview with Mainichi Shimbun that their bidet toilet seats are constructed from plastic resin to enhance resistance to detergents and provide greater versatility in design. However, using toilet paper or dry cloths for cleaning can result in tiny, invisible scratches where dirt can accumulate, eventually leading to discoloration.This isn't a unique concern for Toto; various manufacturers and cleaning experts have also suggested refraining from using toilet paper on toilet seats. They recommend opting for soft cloths dampened with tap water or mild detergent to properly clean the surfaces. Additionally, the use of certain cleaning materials such as thinners, nylon scrubbers, or abrasives are strongly discouraged, as they might harm the toilet seat’s surface.While Toto is exploring options for more scratch-resistant materials, they have confirmed that no immediate changes to the current material are planned. Their flagship product, the Washlet, boasts a myriad of features like an automatic lid, air dryer, and adjustable pressure controls for the bidet function, which have made Japanese toilets a subject of fascination for tourists and a point of national pride. In Japan, where the design and functionality of toilets reflect a blend of hospitality and technological advancement, these warnings underscore the importance of proper maintenance to preserve the longevity and aesthetics of modern toilet innovations.
