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You know by now how important it is to keep your home as free from toxins as you possibly can. Because, let’s face it toxins are in EVERYTHING these days. Whether you’re cleaning, cooking, following your beauty routine, or even just protecting an injury from infection, chances are high that you’re going to come into contact with some straight up NASTY stuff.
If you’ve listened to Caraway founder, Jordan Nathan on the show, you know that every week we consume a credit card’s worth of plastic. Disgusting.
But, despite how much more we know about the toxins in our day-to-day life, it’s still a challenge to avoid them. Plus, it’s easy to forget where those toxins might be hiding… Have you ever thought about what’s actually in your toilet paper and how it’s made?
Recently, more and more studies have been coming out about the potentially toxic products in our home and toilet paper is the latest on the list. So today, we’re diving into those studies to see exactly what’s going on with toilet paper and whether or not it’s safe for use. Let’s get into it.
Is Toilet Paper Toxic?
Basically: yes.
Toilet paper first became commercially available in the United States in 1857 but the problems with toilet paper didn’t arise until later, in the late 19th century, when the Scott Brothers began making toilet paper from trees, rather than from manila hemp.
Since no one wants splinters in such a sensitive area, extensive processing was necessary to make toilet paper safe and usable.
But, back then, we REALLY weren’t up to snuff on our environmental science, so we didn’t know how bad chemical processing can be for us. As a result, manufacturers used super harsh chemicals, like bleach, to transform tough trees into soft toilet paper.
Today, we have a greater understanding of chemical toxins and their dangers, but there is still much to learn and much that remains hidden. You’ve got to pay attention if you want to keep your home toxin-free.
Despite over a hundred years of development, there are still chemicals present in toilet paper that are harmful to humans. But don’t worry we’ve got solutions. So far, we’ve helped you detoxify your kitchen, your mind, and your body. Next up, we’re tackling TP.
What Chemicals Are In Toilet Paper?
Chlorine Dioxide
The first commercially-available roll of toilet paper was produced by the Scott Brothers using virgin pulp (as opposed to recycled paper). Virgin pulp is actually naturally brown, like brown kraft paper.
In order for toilet paper to appear white and also to make it soft the Scott Brothers used chlorine gas to bleach and sanitize the pulp. This is also called “elemental chlorine.”
Today, elemental chlorine is not used in the bleaching process. But, the bleaching process still exists for most brands. These brands use chlorine dioxide, which is a reactive compound that turns into chlorine gas and oxygen when exposed to sunlight. When the bleaching process uses this chemical, it’s called Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF) bleaching.
We don’t know about you, but to us that kind of sounds like there’s no chlorine involved. That’s why it’s important to dive deep into what these acronyms mean.
While the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency recognizes this process as the “Best Available Technology” to bleach toilet paper; we’d rather not have bleach that close to our most delicate body parts. You know?
Dioxins
Dioxins are a group of toxic chemicals that are a byproduct of the bleaching process. There are several hundred chemicals that make up the group dioxins. These chemicals are known as persistent organic pollutants (POPs), which means that they stick around the environment for a long time.
These chemicals are also known to cause cancer, reproductive, and developmental problems.
PFAs
If you’ve been around on the blog for a while, you’re probably familiar with the concept of “forever chemicals,” or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAs). Studies have shown that exposure to certain PFAS can harm your health.
Like their nickname suggests, PFAs stick around for a long time. They can also build up in your body and in the environment, affecting things like the food chain and drinking water.
Recently, the Environmental Working Group shared a study where researchers from the University of Florida collected samples of toilet paper sold all over America, Africa, and Europe. They also tested sewage sludge from wastewater treatment plants in North America.
They found that toilet paper is a major source of PFAs in wastewater. Specifically, the most prevalent PFA they looked at (6:2 diPAP) is known to be very persistent in the environment and harmful to our health.
(Psst! Did you know that PFAs are also in your workout clothes? You can find PFA-free leggings here.)
BPA
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical used largely in the production of plastics and resins, but this study also found a significant prevalence of BPA in toilet paper as well. Recycled toilet paper most often contained it, likely due to contamination during the paper recycling process.
BPA exposure is so widespread that studies have found about 85% of Korean children under 2 have detectable levels of BPA in their urine.
The problem with BPA is that it acts as an endocrine disruptor, likely because it mimics estrogen. That means it can affect any process affected by estrogen, such as growth, immune system function, cell repair, fetal development, energy levels, and reproduction. Yikes.
Fragrances
If you’re using toilet paper with fragrances, let us just tell you now: don’t do it! It may seem fun and fresh, but those fragrances are actually associated with health risks like headaches, asthma attacks, breathing difficulties, & cardiovascular and neurological problems. This study found that skin exposure to fragrances was also associated with sensitive skin.
If you listened to the show with Darin Olien you know that one of the best, simplest fixes you can make in your home is to fragrance-free. Simple as that. It’s a great starting point if you’re overwhelmed by non-toxic switches.
What Are Alternatives To Toilet Paper That Are Safe To Use?
Reel Paper
Let’s start with our personal favorite–Reel Paper. They set out to reduce waste, encourage conscious consumerism, and improve quality of life for disadvantaged people, and they certainly did it.
Reel toilet paper is made with 100% tree-free fibers, using bamboo instead. Plus, their packaging is entirely plastic-free and biodegradable.
Plant Paper
PlantPaper is another tree-free, toxin-free toilet paper made from bamboo. It’s a great, soft alternative to regular toilet paper. Its packaging is also 100% plastic-free.
Save Trees
Bamboo is honestly the best alternative toilet paper out there. Save trees makes 100% bamboo toilet paper with no PFAs, no added scents, and no pesticides. It’s also made in the USA.
Cheeky Panda
This brand makes an eco-friendly bamboo 3-ply toilet paper, making it strong as well as soft. It doesn’t have any added scents, lotions, or other chemicals. This brand also works closely with the World Wildlife Fund.
Toilet paper may be toxic, but there are fantastic non-toxic alternatives.
It’s a little disappointing that EVERY product under the sun has nasty chemicals in them. But luckily, there are good people looking out for us, creating safe brands like Reel Paper.
If you’re feeling nervous about what other chemicals might be hiding in your home, check out Lauryn’s non-toxic product guide. It’ll totally change your life and your home.
x, The Skinny Confidential team
+ Need help with healthier swaps for your favorite products? Check out this post from The Organic Bunny.
++ The hidden chemicals in your candles.
NON-TOXIC FAVORITES:
