Attention to anyone who finds themselves wiping more than three times after using the restroom—there’s an important message for you.
An expert is here to explain why wiping beyond three times isn’t advisable and is offering useful tips for those who face this challenge.
In a TikTok video shared by BIEN Australia, a skilled pelvic floor physiotherapist discusses the ideal number of wipes during bathroom visits.
The 57-second video aims to offer a solution to help reduce excessive wiping.

An expert has provided guidance on how many times you should wipe after using the toilet. Credit: Adobe Stock
The expert starts by tackling a common worry and offers reassurance, stating: “If you find yourself wiping more than two or three times, that could be considered fecal smearing.”
“Essentially, this happens when excess stool remains near the anal area even after you’ve finished your bowel movement.”
To address this problem, the physiotherapist presents a method that may help reduce the number of wipes needed.

The expert recommends an alternative wiping technique. Credit: Adobe Stock
She advises a gradual squeezing of the pelvic floor muscles in a waterfall pattern.
By progressively tightening the squeeze from 20 percent to 50 percent, then 80 percent, and finally 100 percent, individuals can execute four controlled squeezes at the conclusion of their bowel movement.
This method is designed to close the anal sphincter, minimizing the likelihood of stool remnants near the anal entrance, a common issue linked to weakness in the external sphincter.

The expert has explained why it’s important not to wipe more than three times after a bowel movement. Credit: @bien.aus/TikTok
The video also highlights that issues like hemorrhoids or scar tissue around the anus might lead to the need for extra wiping.
In cases where the recommended method doesn’t seem to work, she suggests consulting a healthcare professional for a more thorough assessment.
TikTok users have responded to the video with a blend of humor and sentimentality.
Some have made light of the difficulties they encounter while wiping, with one person joking about their hairy predicament.
@bien.aus Faecal smeaing – my last video on yhis blew up! If you are wiping more than three times try the following: – squeezing and relaxing the pelvic floor 5-10 times after a poo – eating more fruits and veg – drinking more water – avoiding constipation and haemorroids – seeing a pelvic floor physio if the above dont work for an assesment 🤸🏾♀️ #pelvicfloorphysio #ibs #chrones #pelvicfloorexercises ♬ original sound – BIEN Australia
Taking into account the recommendations from the pelvic floor specialist is crucial to reduce excessive wiping after using the toilet.
By applying her method and tackling any root causes with the support of healthcare professionals, individuals can strive for a cleaner and more effective bathroom routine.