 In many cultures, such as Hindu and Muslim, water is used for anal cleansing after defecation, either in addition to using toilet paper or exclusively.When water is used for anal cleansing after defecation, toilet paper may be used for drying the area afterwards.Some doctors and people who work in the science and hygiene fields have stated that switching to using a bidet as a form of anal cleansing after defecation is both more hygienic and more environmentally friendly.<ref></ref>

Some peoples have culturally significant stories in which defecation plays a role.