Jan. 3 (UPI) --Complaints about scratches on toilet seats manufactured by Japanese company Toto led the firm to issue an unusual instruction to consumers: don't wipe the seats with toilet paper.

You’ve been warned: Do not wipe this toilet seat with paper. Wiping the toilet seat with paper is something that many people do — but one company is warning the public not to do it.

Toto, a top Japanese toilet bowl maker, said last week that users should refrain from wiping their seats with toilet paper, as it risks creating micro scratches on the surface.

Ideally, wiping after a bowel movement should take just two to three swipes of toilet paper. If you’re experiencing something different, try some of the following steps, and consult a healthcare ...

However, wiping the seat with toilet paper or dry cloth can cause small, invisible scratches where dirt may accumulate, leading to discolouration.

Toto, a top Japanese toilet bowl maker, said last week that users should refrain from wiping their seats with toilet paper, as it risks creating micro scratches on the surface.