No Toilet Paper? No Problem: 19 Tabos for Your Butts to Survive COVID-19
In some parts of the first world, people have been emptying the shelves of toilet paper. As early as February, people in Hong Kong and Singapore went into a frenzied buyout of basic supplies, including masks, paper towels, and the coveted toilet paper.
The hoarding became so great that one man purchased 216 rolls on Amazon, had it shipped for $200 dollars to Hong Kong, kept half, and gave the rest as gifts. Fortune, which reported the generous gesture, described the act as "when crisis strikes, it’s the thought—and thickness of the toilet tissue—that counts. Today, the frantic purchasing of toilet paper has reached Australia and the United States. In the United Kingdom, rationing has been implemented to prevent insensitive stockpiling.
While we do acknowledge the convenience of toilet paper—it's easy to use, comfortable, and handy when you have to blow your nose—experts have noted this strange obsession with toilet paper is more psychological than necessary. Psychologist Emma Kenny told Sky News she considers the act "ridiculous" and a "reaction to fear" more than a reaction to the virus itself.
Philippine grocery stores, however, have toilet paper (as well as other hygiene necessities) in abundance.
Why?
Is it because we're not afraid of COVID-19? Maybe. Have you been to malls recently? We are not deterred by crowds.
Is it because we have better options? Yes. It's because we're not afraid to get down and dirty when we do business. Our secret: the tabo, or, as we at Esquire like to call it, a bathtime tureen, the most essential bathroom tool apart from water itself.
In a world where people are buying toilet paper with abandon, be a tree-saver and buy a tabo. We've picked out some of the best.
Editor's Pick: Muji White Dipper
This notorious tabo has circulated around social media for its lofty P365 price tag, but as proud owners of two of these babies, we can't help but commend its ergonomic handle, elegant lines, and matte finish. Muji
Editor's Pick: OROCAN Water Dipper Long Handle
Perfect for users with bad backs and low buckets. Lazada
Editor's Pick: Multipurpose Silicone Collapsible Dipper in Turquoise
Your handy tabo on the go. Can fit most suitcases. Lazada
Daddy's Choice: Munchkin Duckling Bath Rinser in Yellow
Because your rubber duck needs a friend. Amazon
Value for Money: Mini Water Dipper in Blue
Your wallets will thank you. This dipper, with its simple design and classic colors, will do the job for P18. Lazada
Editor's Pick: Thickened Bathing Ladles (With Bonus Spout!)
Its not-so-patented spout will help you perfect the art of pouring. Amazon
Beauty Award: Natural Japanese Hinoki Wood Bath Bucket with Handle
This natural beauty will fit organically into your expertly curated, Pinterest-inspired home. Amazon
Budget Find: Water Dipper Mug
Two dippers for the price of one. Because your toilet-loving friend needs one too. Lazada
Other dippers/rinsers/tabos to try:
Megabox Water Dipper in Pearl. Lazada
Two-tone Water Dipper in Jeweled Purple. Lazada
Novelty Hello Kitty Tabo. Shopee
Rounded Water Dipper in Sunny Yellow. Shopee
Swovo Baby Bath Waterfall Rinser Head Washing Tear-Free Shampoo Rinse Cup Water Scoop Fun Time. Amazon
Orocan Basic Dipper in Eggshell. Orocan
Two-handle Stainless Steel Wash Cup With Stylish Intricate Engraving. Amazon
Basic Dipper in Chartreuse. Lazada
Nuby 3-Pack Dolphin Dippers Bath Scoops (They're your ergonomic dolphin friends). Amazon
Three-Piece Non-Slip Grip Dipper. Amazon
Ordinary Bath Dipper in Brilliant White. Daiso
Your bathtime rituals are all set, in case of a toilet paper shortage. But remember, no matter how many bath dippers you have, you need to wash your hand, exercise sneeze and cough etiquette, and avoid unnecessary crowds.
