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What is 'recycled' toilet paper, and how is it different from regular toilet paper?

Research estimates that 27,000 trees are cut down to make traditional toilet paper each day.

Sustainable toilet paper

Photo Credit: iStock

In the U.S. alone, it is estimated that each person uses a whopping average of 141 rolls of toilet paper each year. Recycled toilet paper is a sustainable alternative that can be delivered to your doorstep or found in stores near you.

But what makes recycled toilet paper different from traditional toilet paper? 

How is recyclable toilet paper made? 

Recycled toilet paper is made from recycled materials like bamboo and paper fibers that would otherwise be destined for a landfill, while regular toilet paper is made from unsustainable virgin pulp.

The recycled paper is mixed with water to create a pulp, which is then formed into sheets of toilet paper. The end result is a sustainable product that's gentle on the environment.

What makes recycled toilet paper sustainable? 

There are several reasons why recycled toilet paper is better for the environment. It takes less energy to produce and generates less carbon pollution. Perhaps most importantly, it conserves water and forests by avoiding the use of virgin forest fiber, the basis for most major toilet paper brands.

Those virgin forest fibers come from trees that play a crucial role in absorbing harmful carbon pollution in the atmosphere. Research estimates that 27,000 trees are cut down to make toilet paper each day. 

But recycled toilet paper is made from post-consumer goods, which means it doesn't add new waste to the environment. That said, some recycled toilet paper may not be as soft as traditional toilet paper, because it's made of shorter fibers

There are definitely some trade-offs to consider. But if you're looking for a more sustainable option for your bathroom, consider recycled toilet paper. It is better for the environment and works just as well as regular toilet paper.

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1

who gives a crap

Why It's Cool
The OG of sustainable toilet paper, they guarantee no trees are cut down to produce their TP. (Plus, 50% of profit goes to organizations that ensure access to sanitary toilets.)

 $68 for 48 rolls

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Who Gives a Crap is a sustainable toilet paper alternative
2

reel

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Reel's ethically sourced bamboo toilet paper means you can go to the bathroom without guilt over chopping down old-growth forests!

$36.50 for 24 rolls (5% discount with subscription)

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3

number two

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This bamboo toilet paper gets the award for most beautiful (plastic-free and recycled) wrapping. It's also made from 100% sustainably sourced-products that are guaranteed septic safe.

$36.50 for 24 rolls (5% discount with subscription)

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4

Seventh Generation 100% Recycled Toilet Paper

Why It's Cool
Unlike other delivery-only products, you can find this 100% recycled product in just about any store you already shop at.

$44 for 48 rolls

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Cloud paper bamboo toilet paper

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No trees were harmed in the making of this toilet paper. These ultra-soft and durable rolls are made of sustainable bamboo and come in plastic-free packaging.

$44.99 for 24 rolls

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