What is more sustainable: Recycled paper or Bamboo paper?

In this blog, we come face to face with two green warriors: recycled toilet paper and bamboo toilet paper. They both promise sustainability, but who deserves the crown for the most environmentally friendly toilet paper? Let’s take a closer look at these paper warriors and find out who wins in this ultimate sustainability test!

Recycled toilet paper

In one corner we have recycled toilet paper, the champion of reuse. This paper is made from post-consumer waste paper, such as books, used paper or cardboard. The production process starts with collecting and sorting old paper, which is then processed into new toilet paper. Recycling paper helps reduce the amount of waste we all produce and at the same time reduces the need to cut down trees. It’s a win-win for the environment! Sounds great, right?

But let’s not forget that recycled toilet paper has its weaknesses too. Paper and cardboard can be recycled an average of 7 times – after that, it’s done. So, for the supply of recycled toilet paper, it will always have to be paper made from wood fibers and tree cuttings. Also, recycled paper can feel rougher than bamboo toilet paper, so make sure your bottom is ready for a little extra exfoliation. If you have sensitive skin, it might be wise to consider a gentler alternative. For example…

Bamboo toilet paper

Bamboo! In the other corner, we have bamboo toilet paper, Mother Nature’s green gift. Bamboo grows fast, requires no pesticides or artificial fertilizers, doesn’t die after cutting, absorbs more CO2 and releases more oxygen than the average tree, has the natural ability to purify toxins from the soil, and is easily biodegradable. So, do you have a minute? We need to catch our breath. Plus, bamboo toilet paper often feels a lot softer than recycled toilet paper, making it a luxurious choice for your derriere. Plus, it looks chic in your bathroom too!

But hey, every advantage has its disadvantage - including bamboo. You can mainly look at the production process of bamboo paper: you cannot deny the impact of transporting bamboo from countries outside Europe to the Netherlands. So if you want a local product, bamboo may not be the best choice for you. In addition, the paper is often browner than recycled paper, especially if no bleaching agents have been used in the production process. This is of course more sustainable, but some people often still have to wait for the brown color of their toilet paper.

Recycled vs. Bamboo

Now it’s all about performance. Both types of toilet paper do a great job of accomplishing their mission: keeping your bottom clean and fresh. It may come down to personal preference – do you like the soft caress of bamboo or do you prefer the “locally sourced” recycled paper?

So what’s more sustainable? If you want to help reduce waste and save trees, recycled toilet paper is the way to go. But then again, so is bamboo. Plus, bamboo cleans out toxins in the soil and bamboo paper is softer than recycled paper. So if you ask us, the winner is… bamboo paper!

Whatever your preference, remember that every choice you make has an impact. Always consider the source of the toilet paper, the production processes and the transportation. Look for certifications such as Fairtrade and EU Ecolabel, which show that the paper comes from sustainably managed forests and meets high environmental standards.

Now that you’re armed with knowledge, you’re ready to do battle. So, which toilet paper will win in your home? Recycled or bamboo? And remember, a touch of humor can make everything better, even your choice of toilet paper. So don’t take sustainability too seriously: every little bit helps. Let’s make this world a little greener, one toilet roll at a time!