Choosing the best eco-friendly toilet paper doesn't have to be complicated. With the growing demand for sustainable options, it's important to know what to look for.

This article clarifies the key features to consider when selecting environmentally friendly toilet paper and helps you make a choice that's good for both your family and the planet.

What plastic are we talking about?

Take a deep breath — you're not wiping your bum with anything plastic. But that doesn't mean your toilet paper purchases are guilt-free.

Think about the last time you tore into a fresh pack of toilet paper. It wasn't a neat unravel or a delicate zip; it was a primal tear through plastic. Unfortunately, that plastic is usually not biodegradable.

This plastic isn’t recyclable and sticks around in landfills longer than we’d like, unlike your business, which you can flush away and never see again. 

Biodegradable products, like those made from bamboo, hemp, or paper, decompose naturally (thanks to bacteria or other living organisms). Choosing toilet paper with eco-friendly packaging helps ensure our planet doesn't get clogged with unnecessary waste.

What criteria do you use for picking eco-friendly toilet paper?

Choosing eco-friendly toilet paper should be a breeze! Here are some key things to consider to make your decision easy and green.

Type of material

There are three major players in the game: tree paper, which you come into contact with daily (and kills over 1 million trees per day), bamboo, and recycled toilet paper. 

So, which is the best choice? Hint: It’s the two options that aren’t wiping out our planet.

Recycled toilet paper is the most eco-friendly and cost-effective option. It’s made from paper scraps and requires significantly fewer resources to produce.

Bamboo paper is a close second. But how can it be sustainable if it involves cutting down bamboo? Well, bamboo is the fastest-growing plant in the world. It doesn’t need fertilizers or pesticides and actually absorbs twice as much carbon dioxide as trees.

Package sizes and carbon footprints

Fewer packages mean less environmental damage. So, when shopping for toilet paper, look for brands that offer bulk shipping.

Buying in bulk ensures you're always stocked up. Then, you never have to resort to creative, last-minute toilet paper alternatives. Opting for subscription-based or slower delivery methods can also shrink that footprint.

Dig into the brands' carbon footprints. Supporting carbon-neutral brands is a win for Mother Earth and your conscience.

Cardboard core vs special dispenser

I bet you didn't realize there's so much to consider about toilet paper, did you? But, like any great detective, it's crucial to get down to the core — literally, the cardboard core. 

Choosing between special dispensers and traditional rolls relies on personal preference. The dispenser may look sleek, but it limits your options if you want to change things up.

Plus, toilet rolls aren't just recyclable; they're also upcyclable. You can repurpose them into seedling containers, bird feeders, DIY kaleidoscopes, and so much more. It's like finding the surprise toys in your Cracker Jacks box all over again!

Softness

Bamboo alternatives are famous for softness. Don’t get hung up on the idea of sticks or stalks—think of the soft, cuddly panda bears instead.

On that note, recycled toilet paper isn’t far behind. Even though tree paper has a solid reputation for comfort, environmentally friendly alternatives can still provide a cozy and gentle option for you and the planet.

Toughness and durability

Here's a surprise: bamboo is just as strong, if not stronger than traditional toilet paper. To test the strength of toilet paper at home when you don’t need to go, try wetting a sheet and seeing how well it holds together without tearing. Another method is to stretch it gently to assess its durability under tension. 

The number of plys

This is a huge factor. No matter how good the material is, strength lies in numbers. Look for eco-friendly toilet paper that offers 2 or 3-ply options. My advice? Always avoid single-ply. It’s worth investing in the extra layers for a more comfortable and protection.

Price per sheet/price per roll

When buying in bulk, I can’t stress enough the importance of looking past the initial cost and breaking it down to the price per unit. While the number of rolls may be more straightforward math, it doesn’t account for the varying sheet count — what you really are getting from each roll.

Don’t forget, buying in bulk means one less thing to worry about on every grocery run!

Shelf appeal

You've got your cute shower curtain, a fresh scent from the plug-in, and freshly washed bath rugs. But what's that in the corner? Smashed toilet paper rolls and lint everywhere. No, thank you!

Your toilet paper can be stylish, too. Rolls wrapped in decorative recycled paper keeps them clean, presentable, and adds a touch of luxury.

What else should I consider when I’m shopping for eco-friendly toilet paper?

When you hunt for eco-friendly toilet paper, it’s about more than choosing sustainable materials. Look for companies that go beyond profits and prioritize social impact. 

For instance, Who Gives A Crap not only delivers plastic-free, bamboo, or recycled paper options but also donates 50% of its profits to improve sanitation and access to toilets in underserved communities worldwide.

Supporting these initiatives ensures your purchase contributes positively to society and the environment. Whether it’s advocating for fair wages, supporting local communities, or minimizing carbon footprints, every brand you choose can make a difference. 

Conclusion: Add Who Gives A Crap to your cart

When picking a environmentally friendly option , consider its full impact and practicality for daily use.

Softness and durability are key — bamboo offers plush comfort and strength comparable to traditional options. Opt for 2 or 3-ply for a more cushioned experience.

Recycled and bamboo paper are the most sustainable. Bulk buying saves money and cuts packaging waste. Look for brands with transparent shipping and social impact support.

Who Gives A Crap strikes the perfect balance between luxury and eco-friendly.

Individually wrapped rolls with decorative recycled paper add a touch of style to your bathroom and make sustainability look good.

You deserve the top for your bottom. Switch to Who Gives A Crap for a cleaner conscience and a greener bathroom!