Why Do People Want Toilet Paper When They Panic?
Do you know why toilet paper becomes a high demand product during times of panic? The phenomenon is more common than you might think. In recent years, I have observed this behavior multiple times – during the threat of government-mandated shutdowns in 2020, official lockdowns, ice storms in 2020, and even during severe winter storms in Texas in 2021. Each instance included a sudden rush to stores guarded by long queues and empty shelves. Despite the laughter and mockery around it, there is a practical and understandable reason for this behavior.
Practical Purchasing Patterns
During a crisis, shoppers tend to prioritize items that can support their daily routines without the need for frequent trips to the store. The classic strategy involves stockpiling essential items such as non-perishable foods, hygiene products, and water. Items like bread, milk, eggs, Pop Tarts, and comfort foods are chosen because they offer variety in meals as well as a no-cooking meal option. Pop Tarts are perfect for a quick and hassle-free breakfast, and comfort foods can help ease one's mind during uncertain times. Hygiene products, including toilet paper, paper towels, and tissues, are also top priorities to ensure households are prepared.
Emergency Preparedness and Psychological Factors
Beyond the practical purpose, there is a psychological aspect to hoarding these items. People feel more secure knowing that they have essentials on hand, reducing the stress and anxiety associated with the uncertainty of the situation. The fear of running out of essential items – such as bread, toilet paper, or formula – is a real concern when you cannot leave your home. By purchasing these items in bulk, consumers reassure themselves that their basic needs will be met during a crisis. Additionally, shelf-stable foods and stockpiled hygiene products can last for extended periods, making it a low-risk purchase.
Consumer Behavior and Limitations
A significant factor contributing to panic buying is the implementation of buying limits. Stores often limit the quantity of items one person can purchase, with the common limit being a single unit or a small pack. Consumers, such as those who are part of a family or planning for potential relatives who may have to stay, often interpret these limits as a reason to buy more. These individuals might argue that a single large pack can serve multiple members of the household, increasing its value.
Unexpected Substitutions and Psychological Impact
While many people stick to the usual items during a crisis, substitutions can occur based on the items that are missing. For example, when there is a shortage of formula, people might resort to finding alternatives like condensed milk or powdered milk. Such substitutions demonstrate the adaptability of consumers during times of scarcity. However, not all options are equally practical. One instance that stands out is mothers crying over the lack of baby wipes in response to a shortage of toilet paper, highlighting the importance of different products in families with infants and young children.
Specific Items Disappear During Pandemic Hysteria
During the height of pandemic hysteria, essential items such as soap, detergents, sanitizers, health-boosting products (like vitamins, fruit juices, and nutritional supplements), and cold medicines often vanished from store shelves. Panic buyers, overwhelmed by the sudden scarcity of everyday necessities, rushed to grab the remaining stock. The demand for these products is not only due to their practical use but also because they offer a sense of health and security during a time when one’s health and well-being are under constant threat.