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Watch an Ad — or Pay — to Get Toilet Paper: Chinese Restrooms Test QR-Code Dispensers

Some public restrooms in China now require users to scan a QR code and watch a short ad to receive six squares of toilet paper, or pay 0.5 RMB (~$0.07) to skip the ad. Officials say the system aims to reduce waste and deter theft. The idea follows earlier experiments with facial-recognition dispensers, and public reaction is mixed—some complain about portion size while others support using technology to curb misuse.

10:06 PM, 11/25/2025Society
Watch an Ad — or Pay — to Get Toilet Paper: Chinese Restrooms Test QR-Code Dispensers

In parts of China, some public restrooms are testing high-tech dispensers that require users to scan a QR code and watch a short advertisement before they receive toilet paper. Each completed ad releases six small squares of paper; users who need more must repeat the process or pay a small fee to skip the commercial.

How the system works

Visitors scan a QR code on the dispenser and view a brief video ad. After the ad finishes, the machine dispenses six squares of toilet paper. As an alternative, users can pay 0.5 RMB (about $0.07) to bypass the advertisement and receive the paper immediately.

Why authorities are using the machines

Facility managers say the dispensers are intended to cut waste and discourage people from taking large quantities of free supplies from public restrooms. Reports say similar concerns prompted earlier experiments with more advanced solutions.

Background

In 2017, a trial at a major park in Beijing tested facial-recognition dispensers designed to limit how much paper each visitor could take. At that time, users were required to look at the device briefly before it released a long sheet of paper; additional use was restricted for a period.

“The people who steal toilet paper are greedy,” said He Zhiqiang, a customer service worker from Ningxia. “Toilet paper is a public resource. We need to prevent waste.”

Public reaction

Reactions have been mixed. Some users complain the allocated sheets are too short for their needs. Wang Jianquan, a retired shopping manager, said the portions were insufficient. Others welcome technological measures as a way to change behavior and protect shared resources.

“It’s a very bad habit,” said Qin Gang of people taking more than their share. “Maybe we can use technology to change how people think.”

Beyond waste reduction, the new dispensers have revived debates about convenience, privacy and whether technological fixes are the best way to address small-scale public-resource misuse.

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