When you’ve reached the end of the last roll how do you decide which toilet paper to buy? Maybe you have a brand you’ve been loyal to for years, or in an effort to go green you pick the “made from recycled paper” rolls. Or possibly you buy whatever’s cheapest. But the problems with traditional tree TP are bigger than meets the eye. Here are our issues with old fashion toilet tissue.
1. Scented
While scented TP might seem like an obvious solution to an obvious problem, these fragrances can be harmful. Synthetic chemical fragrances can include substances like phthalates,a toxin that has been linked to hormone disruption, neurological problems, obesity, and certain cancers. This toxic substance and other harmful chemicals can get into your system through your pores while you’re, uh, taking care of business. Scented toilet paper has also been linked to skin irritation, urinary tract infections, and fungal infections.
2. Bleached
Many white toilet papers are treated with chlorine bleach. Not only can this irritate the skin, it can lead to the formation of carcinogenic furans and dioxins. These chemicals can disrupt the immune system, endocrine system, and reproductive system.
3. Recycled
Recycled toilet paper too can contain dangerous chemicals. Many recycled toilet papers have bisphenol A, aka BPA.This compound has been linked to obesity, diabetes, and some cancers. While this compound has been banned from many products it still exists in recycled TP and receipt paper.
4. Colorful
Traditional toilet papers can also come in vibrant and attractive colors. This may seem tempting especially if you have a little one potty training. However, artificial dyes may irritate your privates, and could enter your bloodstream through the skin.
5. Deforestation
Pillow soft toilet paper may seem like the luxury your backside deserves, but this temporary comfort comes at a steep price. This fluffy TP accounts for 15% of deforestation worldwide. The plantations created by the toilet paper industry for a continuous supply of virgin pulp, displace indigenous plant and animal life. Additionally, these plantations require huge quantities of water, and use harsh chemical pesticides and fertilizers. A large portion of U.S. wood pulp comes from the Canadian boreal forest, a forest we depend on to store carbon and absorb greenhouse gas emissions.
Toilet paper, whether we realize it or not, is an essential part of our daily hygiene. Brands like No.2 are committed to sustainably sourced bamboo toilet paper free from dyes, scents, and BPA. So make the switch to No.2 today, for the planet and your booty!