Most of us use toilet paper every day without thinking about where it comes from, how it's made, or what it costs the planet.
But the fact is that traditional toilet paper is typically made from virgin tree pulp, which drives deforestation, high water consumption, and carbon emissions. Alternatives use different materials like bamboo or recycled fibres, often with plastic-free packaging.
The goal is straightforward: the same softness and reliability, without the unfortunate consequence of trees ending up swirling down the loo. This guide looks at what is typically meant by “eco” toilet paper, compares the different options, shows you how to spot greenwashing, and explains how brands like Cheeky Panda make the switch simple.
What should you look for when comparing toilet paper?
Toilet paper can be designed in a way that is mindful of its impact across its entire life cycle, from the materials used to how it’s packaged and transported. To understand what makes a difference, there are four key factors to consider: material source, manufacturing process, packaging, and certifications.
Material Source
Is bamboo toilet paper really better than traditional and recycled toilet paper?
First things first: what is traditional toilet paper made from? Spoiler alert: trees. To put the scale into perspective, a 2022 analysis by Edge Environment (EDGE (2022) Toilet Paper Environmental Sustainability Report: Environmental Impacts of Traditional Toilet Paper Usage) estimated that if the world's annual toilet paper consumption were made entirely from virgin wood pulp, it would require around 700 million trees a year, based on the assumptions used in the study. For the UK, the same analysis estimated that an all-virgin-wood-pulp scenario would require around 12.2 million trees a year! In this scenario, picture 318 Wembley stadiums packed with trees. Now imagine mowing them all down for toilet paper. That's a straight red card.
So if you’re keen to keep trees in the forest, not swirling down the loo, check what your loo roll is made from. Specifically, look for bamboo or recycled fibres:
- Bamboo: grows faster than trees and regenerates without replanting.
- Recycled paper: reuses waste, reducing landfill.
- In any case, look for certification by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC): ensures the raw materials are sourced from responsibly managed forests and sources that protect biodiversity and workers’ rights.
When comparing toilet paper, check what it’s made from. If the brand claims it’s responsibly sourced, look for certifications like FSC to back it up.
Packaging
Why does plastic-free packaging matter?
Even if the paper itself is designed and made thoughtfully, packaging can undermine its benefits. Toilet paper should come in:
- Plastic-free wraps made from recyclable or compostable materials.
- Minimal packaging, avoiding things like single-roll wraps.
Certifications and Proof
How can I tell if a toilet paper brand is the real deal?
Look for third-party certifications that validate claims:
- FSC®: responsibly sourced materials.
- B Corp™: measured and verified social and environmental performance of the company.
- Third-party carbon footprint assessment
- Vegan: no animal-based ingredients
- Cruelty-Free: no animal testing
These independent certifications offer verifiable proof that the brand meets recognised standards. But each certification checks something different, so it’s worth knowing what each label actually covers before you buy.
[see all of Cheeky Panda’s certifications here]
Quick Comparison
Bamboo vs recycled vs virgin pulp: what difference does it make?
¹Rating 5/5 for comfort in Which? Best toilet paper tests, September 2025
The truth about toilet paper eco claims
Not all toilet paper is created equal. As sustainability becomes a selling point, so do vague or misleading environmental claims. Understanding what’s real helps you choose what roll you want to buy.
1. Common Greenwashing Pitfalls
What should you watch out for?
-
“Natural” or “eco” with no proof:
These are broad terms that don’t tell you much on their own. Look for third-party certifications (like FSC®, or B Corp™) that verify specific claims.
-
Blends:
Some toilet papers contain only a small percentage of recycled or bamboo fibre. Check how much recycled or bamboo fibre the product actually contains rather than relying on the headline wording.
2. How to check for credentials
Which labels and standards matter?
Look for credible, verifiable marks:
- FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council): Confirms fibres come from responsibly managed forests or verified sources.
- Third-party carbon footprint assessment: Indicates emissions are measured.
- B Corp™ Certification: Recognises broader environmental and social accountability of the company.
If a brand makes strong claims but lists no independent certifications, test reports or other relevant documents, approach with caution.
How to choose the right toilet paper for your family
Once you know what to look out for, the next step is choosing the right option for your home. Ideally, it should balance softness, value, convenience, and verified claims, without compromise.
1. Softness and quality
Does eco toilet paper feel the same as other toilet rolls?
Softness isn’t just about comfort. It also affects how much paper you use.
- Ply count
- Fibre type
- Processing: Look for brands that refine fibres gently without harsh chemicals.
High-quality toilet paper, like Cheeky Panda Bamboo Toilet Paper, consistently delivers a soft, reliable clean.
2. Price and value
Does “eco-friendly” toilet paper cost more?
At first glance, rolls may look pricier, but cost-per-use tells a different story.
- Durability matters: Stronger sheets reduce overuse and waste.
- Roll size & sheet count: Longer rolls mean fewer replacements and less packaging.
- Subscription savings: Regular delivery options often reduce cost per roll.
Instead of comparing cost per sheet, focus on value for money over time, a truer measure of value and impact. Want to learn more? We’ve done the maths.
3. Delivery and convenience
Convenience makes it easy to avoid running out.
- Opt for reliable subscriptions so you never run out.
- Bulk ordering can reduce the number of individual deliveries and save money over time.
- Look for brands offering pause or skip options so you stay in control, and your cupboards don’t overflow.
Cheeky Panda subscriptions make it simple to keep your bathroom stocked up with super soft bamboo toilet rolls and more.
Why choose Cheeky Panda
At Cheeky Panda, these questions don’t come after the fact. They’re built into every roll. From sourcing to packaging, we’re committed to proving that comfort, convenience, and keeping trees in the forest can go hand in hand.
1. Certified claims you can verify
Our toilet paper is made of FSC®-certified bamboo (FSC 100%, FSC® C171628). Look for our FSC®-certified products.
- FSC® Certified (FSC 100%) - FSC-C171628
- Registered with The Vegan Society’s Vegan Trademark
- Approved by Cruelty-Free International
- From Cheeky Panda, a B Corp™ Certified company
You can explore our full impact reporting and updates on our impact page.
2. What customers say
Real users, real reviews.
Over 50,000 verified customers rated Cheeky Panda 5★ for:
- Softness and strength: “just as comfortable as premium brands.”
- Great value: “Very good value and lasts much longer.”
- Materials and packaging: “no plastic, no guilt.”
- Service and reliability: “subscription makes it effortless.”
Cheeky Panda bamboo toilet roll is also rated the No.1 eco toilet paper choice by Good Housekeeping, and the only Best Buy and Eco Buy toilet paper by Which?, further confirming you do not need to compromise.
Explore the full range:
Final Tips
When comparing brands, ask yourself these simple questions:
- What is it made from?
- Can the brand prove its claims?
- Are the products good value and great quality?
- Will it make my routine easier, not harder?
If the answer is yes across all three, you’ve found a toilet paper roll worth sticking with.
Want to shortcut the process? Choose Cheeky Panda bamboo toilet paper!
