Is Your Toilet Paper Toxic? The Truth About What We’re Flushing
Let’s talk about something most of us use every day but rarely think about—toilet paper. It’s one of life’s essentials, yet we often overlook what’s actually in those soft, white rolls. As it turns out, conventional toilet paper isn’t as harmless as those cuddly bears in that one commercial would have you believe. Conventional TP can contain harmful chemicals and contribute to massive deforestation. Let’s be honest, it probably isn’t the best thing to be using on our most sensitive areas.
If you’re on a mission to live a less toxic life, your toilet paper is a surprisingly great place to start. Swapping out conventional TP for a less toxic more sustainable option is a simple switch that benefits the planet and also makes a big difference for your health (and your backside).
The Hidden Dangers of Conventional Toilet Paper
Most conventional toilet paper brands are made from virgin wood pulp, meaning they rely on freshly cut trees rather than recycled materials, with much of this pulp coming from old-growth forests like North America’s boreal forests—key ecosystems that store carbon, regulate climate, and support biodiversity. The demand for soft, white toilet paper drives massive deforestation, with millions of trees cut down each year for a product that is used once and discarded.
According to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), many well-known brands score poorly on sustainability, as they continue to rely on deforestation rather than using recycled or alternative fibers like bamboo. This reliance on virgin pulp contributes to habitat destruction, increased carbon emissions, and climate change. Making the switch to tree-free or recycled toilet paper can significantly reduce environmental impact and help preserve these crucial forests.
Beyond environmental concerns, conventional toilet paper often contains toxic chemicals that pose significant health risks.
Chlorine Bleach: Used to whiten and soften toilet paper, chlorine bleaching can release dioxins, highly toxic compounds linked to cancer, reproductive and developmental problems, immune system damage, and hormonal interference.
Formaldehyde: Added to enhance strength, formaldehyde is a known carcinogen that can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues.
Fragrances & Additives: Synthetic fragrances and other chemical additives (including PFAS, forever chemicals) can disrupt the skin's natural balance, leading to irritation, especially in sensitive areas.
Fortunately, there are safer, more sustainable alternatives that eliminate these harmful ingredients while still being soft, durable, and effective. Below are some of our top picks for non-toxic, eco-friendly toilet paper that are better for you and the planet.
Our Top Picks for “Better-for-You” Toilet Paper
1. PlantPaper (Fern & Co. #1 Choice)
Unlike conventional toilet paper, which is often filled with chemicals and contributes to deforestation, PlantPaper is made entirely from fast-growing, renewable bamboo—a sustainable choice that aligns with our transparency values. One of the things we love most is that it’s completely free from chlorine, formaldehyde, and synthetic fragrances, making it a safer option for both our health and the environment.
At Fern & Co., we decided to go all in and ordered the 96-roll pack—it’s the best value, and luckily, we have plenty of storage space. Each roll lasts us at least a week, which means we won’t have to restock often. Plus, we were pleasantly surprised by how soft it is! It’s strong, durable, and septic-safe, breaking down easily without clogging pipes. If you’re looking for a non-toxic, eco-friendly swap that doesn’t sacrifice comfort, PlantPaper is definitely worth trying.
Shop: PlantPaper, Subscribe for $10 off and Free Shipping
2. Caboo Tree Free Toilet Paper
Caboo is a sustainable, tree-free toilet paper made from fast-growing bamboo and sugarcane, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional wood pulp-based options. Unlike conventional TP, which contributes to deforestation, Caboo utilizes renewable resources that regenerate quickly, making it a more responsible choice for the planet. It’s chlorine-free, fragrance-free, and BPA-free, making it a safe and gentle option for those with sensitive skin. Designed to be septic-safe and biodegradable, it breaks down easily without clogging pipes or harming water systems. Despite being environmentally friendly, Caboo doesn’t compromise on quality—it’s both strong and soft, proving that sustainability and comfort can go hand in hand.
3. Reel Paper
Reel Paper is a sustainable and socially responsible alternative to conventional toilet paper, made from 100% bamboo to reduce deforestation while maintaining strength and softness. Committed to minimizing waste, the brand packages its products in plastic-free, biodegradable wrapping, ensuring an eco-friendly choice from production to disposal. Beyond sustainability, Reel Paper supports global sanitation efforts by partnering with organizations that provide access to clean toilets and hygiene solutions in underserved communities. By choosing Reel Paper, consumers not only make an environmentally conscious decision but also contribute to improving sanitation and public health worldwide.
Shop: Reel Bamboo Toilet Paper
5. Grove Co.
Grove Co. Tree-Free Toilet Paper is an excellent eco-friendly alternative made from 100% sustainably sourced bamboo and sugarcane, eliminating the need for virgin tree pulp and helping to reduce deforestation. It’s completely free from chlorine, dyes, and fragrances, making it a safer and gentler choice for both sensitive skin and the environment. Beyond the product itself, Grove Co. is committed to sustainability with plastic-free, recyclable packaging and a B Corporation certification, ensuring high ethical and environmental standards. If you're looking for a soft, durable, and truly sustainable toilet paper, Grove Co. is a fantastic option.
Making the Switch
Making the switch to non-toxic, eco-friendly toilet paper is an easy yet meaningful way to reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals while making a positive impact on the environment. Whether you choose PlantPaper or another sustainable brand, you’re opting for a cleaner, safer option that’s better for both your health and the planet.
What you flush away has a bigger impact than you might think—so why not choose better? Ready to make the switch?
At Fern & Co., we’re committed to sharing products we truly love—ones that align with our values of clean ingredients, transparency, and whole-body wellness. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them. This comes at no extra cost to you but helps support our mission of bringing you the best in holistic health and wellness. We only recommend products we personally trust and believe in, so you can shop with confidence knowing these picks meet our high standards for quality and integrity.