Switching to a more sustainable toilet paper option might not be the top priority for creating a non-toxic home, but it’s an incredibly worthwhile change!
Here’s a little confession: making the switch to non-toxic toilet paper wasn’t even on my radar a decade ago when I began my blogging journey. However, with the knowledge I possess today, it would definitely rank as one of the very first changes I would advocate for. When you think about how frequently and closely you use this product, it becomes clear that opting for a clean and safe brand is essential for maintaining personal hygiene.
Let’s explore some of the unexpected harmful chemicals that can be lurking in your seemingly pristine, ultra-soft toilet paper.
*Affiliate Disclosure: This blog post contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase through my links, I may earn a small commission from the sale, at no additional cost to you. I take my affiliations seriously and only partner with companies and products I genuinely believe in.
*Suzi (Gurl Gone Green) participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, which is an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com.
The Importance of Choosing Non-Toxic Toilet Paper
While non-toxic toilet paper might appear to be just another minor concern, I believe it’s definitely worthy of your consideration. Additionally, I have personally vetted several brands to help you easily transition to a healthier option for your home.
Understanding the Environmental Footprint of Toilet Paper
The production of toilet paper, particularly when made from virgin wood pulp, carries a considerable environmental burden—contributing to deforestation, releasing greenhouse gases, consuming vast amounts of water and energy, and contaminating ecosystems with harmful chemicals.
Annually, around 712 million trees are felled to satisfy the global demand for toilet paper, with a significant portion of this logging taking place in critical areas like the Canadian Boreal Forest and the Indonesian rainforests.
After use, toilet paper generally decomposes in wastewater treatment systems; however, it can still add substantial bulk and chemicals to sewage sludge, which increases treatment costs and energy consumption.
To put things into perspective, the production of toilet paper uses approximately 1,165 million tons of water every year across the globe.
Moreover, the manufacturing process of toilet paper is incredibly energy-intensive, requiring around 17.3 terawatt-hours of electricity each year in the U.S. alone.
Eco-Friendly Materials to Seek in Toilet Paper
Bamboo
- Bamboo grows swiftly without the need for pesticides or fertilizers, making it a highly sustainable resource. It consumes less water compared to trees and possesses natural antibacterial and antifungal properties.
Recycled Materials
- Toilet paper composed of 100% post-consumer recycled paper minimizes the demand for virgin tree pulp, thereby helping to avert deforestation.
- Opt for brands that refrain from using chlorine bleach and instead utilize safer whitening methods such as Elemental Chlorine Free bleaching, Process Chlorine Free methods, or hydrogen peroxide.
Harmful Toxins to Avoid in Toilet Paper
Chlorine – Commonly employed to bleach toilet paper for a bright white appearance, this process unfortunately generates toxic dioxins and furans that can lead to severe health issues, including cancer, liver complications, reproductive disorders, and skin irritation.
There are three primary types of chlorine-related bleaching processes:
- Elemental Chlorine Free – Utilizes chlorine dioxide instead of elemental chlorine gas for the bleaching process.
- Process Chlorine Free – This method is typical for recycled paper products and avoids re-bleaching with chlorine-based compounds, opting instead for alternative agents such as oxygen, ozone, or hydrogen peroxide.
- Totally Chlorine Free – No chlorine or chlorine-based compounds are involved at any stage. Alternative bleaching agents like oxygen, ozone, or hydrogen peroxide are used instead.
Choosing Totally Chlorine Free is the most favorable option, while Process Chlorine Free serves as a robust alternative, especially for recycled products. If neither of these options is available, Elemental Chlorine Free is a better choice than conventional chlorine bleaching.
BPA – A common contaminant in recycled toilet paper, as it originates from thermal paper and other recycled materials that retain BPA even after processing. BPA (Bisphenol A) should be avoided in toilet paper as it is a well-documented endocrine disruptor, interfering with hormonal functions in the body.
Fragrance – Scented toilet paper can disrupt the natural pH balance of intimate areas, potentially causing redness, itchiness, burning sensations, and allergic reactions. The chemicals in fragrances are often not fully disclosed and may include harmful or carcinogenic substances.
Formaldehyde – Utilized to enhance the strength of toilet paper when wet, formaldehyde is a known carcinogen that can provoke skin irritation, respiratory problems, and allergic reactions.
Dyes – Added for visual appeal, dyes—especially those derived from synthetic petroleum-based chemicals such as benzene, toluene, and xylene—can cause skin irritation, redness, and allergic reactions.
PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) – While not intentionally added to toilet paper, PFAS can inadvertently enter during the manufacturing process, particularly in recycled products. Often dubbed “forever chemicals,” PFAS are persistent in the environment and the human body and are linked to serious health problems, including cancer, immune suppression, thyroid disease, liver damage, and reproductive complications.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Non-Toxic Toilet Paper
As you navigate the grocery store aisles or browse online for non-toxic toilet paper brands, look for products that meet the following criteria:
- Select unbleached, fragrance-free, BPA-free, and dye-free toilet paper.
- Choose brands that explicitly state they are PFAS-free.
- Opt for toilet paper that is either Totally Chlorine Free, Process Chlorine Free (especially for recycled products), or Elemental Chlorine Free.
Top Non-Toxic Toilet Paper Brands to Consider
Caboo
Caboo specializes in tree-free products like toilet paper, paper towels, and baby wipes. Their toilet paper is a sustainable option crafted from soft bamboo, providing excellent absorbency without leaving behind any lint, all while being septic-safe.
Materials
Caboo toilet paper is derived from bamboo, which requires no pesticides or herbicides for growth and consumes less than one gallon of water per roll. Their bamboo pulp is bleached using a non-toxic ECF bleaching method, which is standard in the bamboo pulp industry. Importantly, no PFAS are incorporated into their manufacturing process.
Certifications
- MADE SAFE (Made with Safe Ingredients) certified product (for their baby wipes).
- FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified
- BRC (Brand Reputation through Compliance) approved, a globally benchmarked standard.
- Non-GMO Verified
Packaging
Some products feature plastic-free wrapping, with plans to replace additional products with paper packaging.
Price Range
$34.99 for 24 rolls
Where to Purchase
Caboo products are available online through their official website, Amazon, Vitacost, and iHerb, as well as in major retail locations such as Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, Wegmans, New Seasons Market, IGA, Safeway, London Drugs, and more.
Review
This is the brand I’ve relied on for years. I appreciate the price point and the convenience of subscribe and save on Amazon. The softness of the toilet paper is another plus. However, it’s worth noting that it doesn’t come individually wrapped like some other clean toilet paper options, which might be a consideration for some. Additionally, the rolls are slightly smaller compared to other brands. I’m pleased that it is PFAS-free and made from a blend of bamboo and sugarcane. I was surprised to learn that Caboo toilet paper is bleached, but they use a more environmentally friendly method called Elemental Chlorine-Free (ECF) bleaching. This process employs chlorine dioxide instead of elemental chlorine gas, significantly minimizing the generation of harmful by-products such as dioxins.
ecoHiny
ecoHiny’s bamboo toilet paper features a plush 3-ply design that prioritizes both comfort and sustainability. This product is septic-safe and does not leave behind any lint.
Materials
ecoHiny toilet paper is constructed from 100% organic bamboo and is free from elemental chlorine (ECF), BPA, PFA, ink, and dye. Additionally, their rolls come individually wrapped, making them convenient for on-the-go use!
Certifications
No specific certifications noted.
Packaging
Utilizes plastic-free packaging.
Price Range
$19.99-$94.99 for 6 rolls to 48 rolls
Where to Purchase
ecoHiny products can be purchased online through their website, Amazon, and Target online.
Review
This is another brand I’ve sampled multiple times. The packaging is attractive, and the rolls are individually wrapped, making it convenient for travel. The toilet paper is made entirely from bamboo and has a pleasant softness. Availability on Amazon is another advantage. It’s also PFAS-free. While ecoHiny toilet paper is bleached, it employs a non-toxic peroxide-based method rather than chlorine bleach, making it a safer and more environmentally friendly option.
Betterway
Betterway provides two varieties of 100% organic 3-ply bamboo toilet paper—both bleached and unbleached options. Their unbleached toilet paper has been recognized as the most sustainable option by the Natural Resources Defense Council. This product is also septic-safe and biodegradable, and they offer a Happy Wiping Guarantee, featuring a 100-day return policy.
Materials
Betterway toilet paper is made from 100% organically grown bamboo and is free from dyes, inks, scents, or BPA.
Certifications
- FSC Certified
- Cruelty-Free
- USDA Certified Biobased Product
Packaging
Plastic-free
Price Range
$29.99 for 12 rolls
Where to Purchase
You can buy Betterway products online through their official website and Amazon.
Review
This is a brand I’ve used for some time and truly appreciate. The rolls come individually wrapped, and I was thrilled to discover their new unbleached rolls! Previously, their toilet paper was white (which they still offer), but now they have introduced a brown, unbleached option that feels softer. I plan to purchase the new unbleached version!
The Cheeky Panda
The Cheeky Panda is a London-based company that offers four types of FSC-certified sustainable bamboo toilet paper—available in unbleached or natural color, quilted soft, silky soft double rolls, and silky soft options. Their toilet paper is exceptionally soft, entirely plastic-free, and compatible with most septic systems.
Their silky soft 3-ply toilet paper has been recognized as the top eco-friendly option by Good Housekeeping. For each purchase, The Cheeky Panda contributes to the WWF’s important conservation initiatives.
Materials
The Cheeky Panda toilet paper is made from FSC-certified bamboo and is free from fragrances, inks, BPA, and is 100% vegan.
Certifications
- B Certified Corporation
- Vegan Society Registered
- FSC Certified
- Cruelty-Free
Packaging
Plastic-free
Price Range
$22.00-$48.00 for 12-24 rolls
Where to Purchase
Available online through their official website and Amazon.
Review
The Cheeky Panda comes packaged in a large bag similar to Caboo. However, it lacks individual wrapping. While it feels somewhat less premium, it’s still a solid choice. The softness could be improved, as it feels a bit thinner overall. Notably, The Cheeky Panda employs hydrogen peroxide as a whitening agent instead of traditional chlorine bleaching methods, making it a more environmentally friendly choice. It is also PFAS-free.
Save Trees
Top Choice for Non-Toxic Toilet Paper
Save Trees is a Seattle-based company that offers 3-ply toilet paper, paper towels, and facial tissues made completely from 100% bamboo. This toilet paper is free from PFAS, inks, dyes, and scents, and is septic-friendly.
Materials
Save Trees toilet paper is made from FSC-Certified bamboo.
Certifications
None specified.
Packaging
Plastic-free
Price Range
$49.99 for 24 rolls
Where to Purchase
Available for purchase online through their website and Amazon, as well as at retailers like Erewhon, Ace Hardware, Good Earth Market, Island Natural, Hank’s Organic, Down to Earth Organic and Natural, along with other health food stores.
Review
This is the softest toilet paper I’ve ever used! Being made from bamboo and PFAS-free, it’s a great choice. The rolls come individually wrapped, providing convenience. Although it is still bleached, the method used is Elemental Chlorine-Free (ECF) bleaching. This process utilizes chlorine dioxide instead of elemental chlorine gas, helping to minimize toxic byproducts. Definitely a top contender for overall softness!
<strong>Repurpose
Runner-Up for Best Non-Toxic Toilet Paper
Repurpose offers a variety of paper products for kitchen and bath, including non-toxic toilet paper. Their 3-ply bamboo toilet paper is free from chlorine, BPA, inks, dyes, and fragrances. It is also septic-safe, with no PFAS added.
Materials
Repurpose is made from 100% bamboo.
Certifications
- 100% FSC Certified Bamboo
Packaging
Plastic-free packaging
Price Range
$32.99-$63.99 for 12-36 rolls
Where to Purchase
You can find Repurpose products online through their website, Grove Collaborative, Thrive Market, and in various grocery stores, including Safeway, Fred Meyer, Haggens, Albertsons, QFC, Thriftway, and more.
Review
This toilet paper ranks second for softness in my opinion. It is individually wrapped and made from bamboo. It is PFAS-free and not bleached with chlorine, but rather uses a safer method as mentioned earlier, either using Processed Chlorine-Free, hydrogen peroxide, or Elemental Chlorine-Free Bleaching. I truly enjoy the feel of this toilet paper!
Reel
Reel toilet paper is tree-free and made from soft, strong 3-ply FSC-Certified bamboo. Each roll is individually wrapped and is free from BPA, fragrances, chlorine, and does not contain inks or dyes. For every box sold, Reel contributes to reforestation projects worldwide.
Materials
Reel toilet paper is crafted from FSC-Certified bamboo.
Certifications
- B Certified Corporation
- FSC Certified
Packaging
Plastic-free
Price Range
$27.99-$82.99 for 12-48 rolls
Where to Purchase
Reel products can be purchased online through their website and Amazon, as well as through major retailers like Target, Giant Eagle, Erewhon, Nugget Markets, Raley’s, Fred Meyer, and others.
Review
This was my first experience trying Reel toilet paper. It offers a medium softness; while it may not be the softest option, it’s still quite acceptable. The rolls come individually wrapped, which is a plus. I appreciate that it’s made entirely from bamboo and is PFAS-free. Although it still undergoes bleaching, it uses the more advanced Elemental Chlorine-Free (ECF) bleaching method, utilizing chlorine dioxide instead of elemental chlorine gas, which helps minimize toxic byproducts.
Tushy
Tushy offers 3-ply toilet paper designed specifically for bidet users. Their product is made from sustainably sourced bamboo, and the bamboo used is not a food source for pandas. Additionally, it is free from elemental chlorine and BPA.
Materials
Tushy toilet paper is made from 100% bamboo.
Certifications
No specific certifications mentioned.
Packaging
Plastic-free
Price Range
$29-$79 for 8-36 rolls
Where to Purchase
Available online through their official website, Amazon, and Walmart.
Review
I had high expectations for this toilet paper due to its packaging, price, and positive reviews, but unfortunately, I was disappointed. Both my husband and I found it felt more like paper towels rather than soft toilet paper. While I appreciate that it’s unbleached, resulting in a brown paper product, I was surprised to discover that testing revealed the presence of organic fluorine, indicating potential PFAS contamination. Overall, I cannot recommend this toilet paper based on my experience.
Seventh Generation
Seventh Generation offers two types of 2-ply bathroom tissue—one made from 100% recycled fiber and another that is whitened without chlorine-containing chemicals. Their toilet paper contains no added dyes, inks, or fragrances and is septic-safe.
Materials
Seventh Generation toilet paper is made from 100% recycled material.
Certifications
No specific certifications noted.
Packaging
Utilizes 50% recycled #4 plastic film, which is recyclable with other plastic films like grocery bags. Approximately 97% of their packaging is either reusable or recyclable.
Price Range
$4.99 – $111.96 for 4-24 rolls
Where to Purchase
Available online via their website, Amazon, Target, Whole Foods, iHerb, Walgreens, CVS Pharmacy, Vitacost, Walmart, Grove Collaborative.
Review
This brand is widely available at many major retailers, making it an accessible choice. While it’s a better alternative, it’s not without flaws. They whiten their toilet paper without using chlorine, opting instead for a Processed Chlorine-Free method, which helps to avoid harmful chlorinated compounds. However, it’s not the softest option. Additionally, there have been reports of organic fluorine found in the toilet paper, indicating potential PFAS contamination.
Target Ever Spring
Ever Spring is a Target-exclusive brand offering a “healthier” toilet paper option. This 2-ply bathroom tissue is whitened without chlorine bleach, free from added dyes and fragrances, and is septic-safe.
Materials
Ever Spring toilet paper is made from 100% recycled material.
Certifications
No specific certifications noted.
Packaging
The external packaging is made from plastic.
Price Range
$7.49-$13.39 for 12-24 rolls
Where to Purchase
Available exclusively at Target.
Review
I was pleased to see Target introduce a better toilet paper option. However, I am unsure if this product contains PFAS, as it is likely that it does due to its recycled paper origin. While it’s not the softest choice available, it does feel slightly softer than Seventh Generation. The whitening process used is unclear since they state they don’t use chlorine, so it’s reasonable to assume they employ a more natural method, possibly Processed-Chlorine Free or Elemental Chlorine-Free Bleaching.
Avoid These Greenwashed Toilet Paper Brands
- Charmin – I recommend steering clear of this brand due to multiple class action lawsuits alleging misleading claims regarding sustainability certifications. They assert that they plant two trees for every one they cut down; however, the lawsuit contends that they do not replant according to the original ecosystem of the Canadian boreal forest.
- Angel Soft – This brand should be avoided as it uses virgin pulp, and there’s a significant chance that formaldehyde is employed to enhance the toilet paper’s strength.
Explore Additional Non-Toxic Paper Products for Your Home<em> </em>
Paper Towels- Many of the toilet paper brands mentioned earlier also provide paper towels. Here are a couple of my favorites:
Tissues- Don’t forget about tissues! Here are some of my top picks:
Paper Plates- Sometimes, a paper plate is necessary. Opt for options that are unbleached and biodegradable.
Napkins– Consider these as an alternative to conventional bleached napkins.
Did I overlook your favorite non-toxic toilet paper brand? Share it in the comments!
If you found this post helpful, check out my previous articles:
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