According to a report from Mamavation, four popular brands of toilet paper have detectable levels of fluorine, an indicator of toxic PFAS. The brands are Charmin Ultra Soft Toilet Paper, Seventh Generation 100% Recycled Bath Tissue, Tushy Bamboo Toilet Paper, and Who Gives a Crap Bamboo Toilet Paper. However, the levels indicate the chemicals are unlikely added on purpose. PFAS are not the only concern in toilet paper, as bleaching or using dyes made from petroleum can irritate body parts, especially women’s vulvas. Previous research has also found formaldehyde, polyethylene glycol, and undisclosed fragrances in some toilet paper. Toilet paper made from recycled paper can contain harmful chemicals like BPA.
Mamavations report includes a list of toilet papers that are fluorine-free and made from mostly sustainable materials, including ECOS Treeless Bamboo & Sugarcane Bathroom Tissue, Caboo Tree-Free Bamboo Bath Tissue, Nature Z Way Bamboo Bath Tissue, and others.
A study by the University of Florida found that toilet paper may be releasing potentially harmful substances known as PFAS into wastewater systems. PFAS are found in paper products as well as cosmetics and cleansers. Some paper manufacturers add PFAS when converting wood into pulp, which can get left behind and contaminate the final paper product. In addition, recycled toilet paper could be made with fibers that come from materials containing PFAS.
Overall, it is important to be aware of the potential presence of PFAS and other harmful chemicals in toilet paper and to choose products that are made from sustainable materials and free from harmful chemicals.
Positive:
- There are toilet paper brands that are fluorine-free and made from mostly sustainable materials.
Negative:
- Four popular brands of toilet paper have detectable levels of fluorine, an indicator of toxic PFAS.
- Bleaching or using dyes made from petroleum in toilet paper can irritate body parts, especially women’s vulvas.
- Toilet paper made from recycled paper can contain harmful chemicals like BPA.
- Toilet paper may be releasing potentially harmful substances known as PFAS into wastewater systems[[5]](https://www.healthline...
