Toilet paper may seem like one of the most harmless household items—soft, clean, and essential. But recent findings reveal an unexpected environmental villain lurking in some brands: PFAS. These “forever chemicals” are causing quite the stir in the sustainability world, and for good reason.
Known for their persistence in the environment and potential health impacts, PFAS are raising serious questions about the safety of everyday products. Let’s break down what PFAS are, why they matter, and how you can make informed choices when it comes to your toilet paper.
What Are PFAS, and Why Should You Care?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of man-made chemicals used to make products water, grease, or stain-resistant. While that might sound convenient, the trade-off is alarming: these chemicals don’t break down in the environment and can accumulate in the human body over time.
Linked to health concerns such as hormone disruption, weakened immune response, and even cancer, PFAS have earned the nickname “forever chemicals” for their stubborn ability to stick around—quite literally forever.
PFAS in Toilet Paper: How Does It Get There?
You might be wondering, “Why would toilet paper contain PFAS?” A valid question! Some recycled paper products can contain traces of PFAS if they were manufactured from materials previously treated with these chemicals. Another potential source is the manufacturing process itself, where PFAS are sometimes used for water resistance or lubrication.
The result? A seemingly innocent household staple may carry an environmental and health burden far greater than you bargained for.
What Does This Mean for You and the Environment?
Flushing PFAS-laden toilet paper sends these chemicals into wastewater systems, where they can seep into soil and water supplies. Over time, this contributes to widespread contamination that’s nearly impossible to reverse.
For consumers, it’s not just about environmental impact—there’s a personal stake too. With rising concerns about PFAS exposure, many people are rethinking what they bring into their homes, especially in items as personal as toilet paper.
How to Choose PFAS-Free Toilet Paper
1. Go Bamboo: Bamboo toilet paper is not only luxuriously soft but also eco-friendly and less likely to contain PFAS. Bamboo grows quickly and requires fewer resources than traditional trees, making it a sustainable superstar.
2. Read the Labels: Look for brands that explicitly state they are PFAS-free. Certifications like FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) can also signal more responsible sourcing practices.
3. Be Cautious with Recycled: While recycling is generally a win for sustainability, in the case of toilet paper, it can be a source of unwanted chemicals like PFAS. Opt for sustainably sourced virgin fibers instead.
The Bottom Line
By avoiding PFAS-laden options and choosing sustainable alternatives, you’re making a small but powerful change toward a healthier future. So next time you’re restocking your bathroom, don’t just grab the cheapest roll on the shelf. Instead, choose a brand that aligns with your values and supports a cleaner, greener world. We recommend DooGood, but hey, we would anyway wouldn’t we?
References
- Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). *Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and Your Health*. [Available online](https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/pfas/index.html). Accessed 29th November 2024.
- Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). *Our Current Understanding of the Human Health and Environmental Risks of PFAS*. [Available online](https://www.epa.gov/pfas/our-current-understanding-human-health-and-environmental-risks-pfas). Accessed 29th November 2024.
- Panieri E et.al. (2022). *PFAS Molecules: A Major Concern for Human Health and the Environment*. MDPI [Available online](https://www.mdpi.com/2305-6304/10/2/44). Accessed 29th November 2024.
- Habib Z et.al. (2024). *Overview of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS), Their Applications, Sources, and Potential Impacts on Human Health*. MDPI. [Available online](https://www.mdpi.com/2673-4672/4/1/9). Accessed 29th November 2024.