Bamboo Toilet Roll Review – In recent years, the quest for sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives has led many consumers to reconsider everyday products, including loo roll. Bamboo toilet roll has emerged as a popular choice, touted for its environmental benefits and comparable quality to traditional toilet paper.
This comprehensive guide delves into the advantages of bamboo rolls, compares them to conventional options, reviews top brands in the UK and USA, and addresses common questions to help you make an informed decision. It also includes our own tried and tested bamboo toilet roll review to help you decide which one might be right for you.
Why Choose Bamboo Toilet Roll?
Environmental Benefits
Bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth, capable of reaching maturity in just a few years. This rapid growth makes it a highly renewable resource and one of the best raw materials, unlike the virgin trees typically used in traditional toilet paper production, which can take decades to mature. Additionally, bamboo cultivation requires less water and no pesticides, reducing its environmental footprint. Bamboo also absorbs more carbon dioxide and releases more oxygen compared to traditional trees, contributing positively to air quality and aiding in the fight against climate change.
Biodegradability & Septic Safety
Bamboo toilet paper is biodegradable and breaks down efficiently, making it safe for septic tanks and less likely to cause plumbing issues. Its natural composition ensures that it dissolves quickly in water, reducing the risk of blockages compared to some conventional toilet papers.
Hypoallergenic Properties
Bamboo fibres possess natural antimicrobial properties, resulting in a gentler product that’s less likely to cause skin reactions. This makes bamboo toilet paper an excellent choice for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies.
What To Look For When Buying Bamboo Toilet Roll
When purchasing bamboo toilet roll, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure you’re supporting ethical, sustainable, and high-quality brands. Here are the key things to look for in brands selling bamboo toilet paper:
1. Certified B Corp Status
Look for brands with Certified B Corporation (B Corp) status. B Corp certification indicates that a company meets high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. These companies balance profit with purpose and are committed to positive impact in their communities and the environment.
2. FSC Certification
Check if the bamboo used is sourced from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified forests. FSC certification ensures that the bamboo is harvested in a sustainable, environmentally responsible manner, and the forests are managed in a way that supports biodiversity and the rights of local communities.
3. Plastic-Free Packaging
Many eco-conscious brands prioritise plastic-free packaging. Opt for brands that use recyclable or compostable packaging materials, such as cardboard or biodegradable wraps, to reduce plastic waste and minimise their environmental impact.
4. Chemical-Free Processing
Choose brands that avoid the use of harmful chemicals in their manufacturing process. Many bamboo toilet roll brands offer unbleached toilet paper that is free from toxic chemicals like chlorine dioxide and elemental chlorine, which are often used to bleach regular toilet paper.
5. Sustainable Sourcing of Bamboo
It’s essential that the bamboo used is sourced responsibly. Look for brands that emphasise sustainable bamboo cultivation, often citing that bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth, requiring little water and no pesticides, making it an eco-friendly choice.
6. Social & Environmental Impact
Some brands actively contribute to social causes, such as supporting sanitation projects or donating a portion of profits to environmental or charitable organisations. For example, Who Gives a Crap donates 50% of their profits to building toilets in underserved communities.
7. Transparency In The Manufacturing Process
Look for brands that are transparent about their supply chain and manufacturing process. Companies that provide detailed information about how their toilet paper is made, where the bamboo is sourced, and the methods used for bleaching or dyeing are often more trustworthy.
8. Recycled Or Eco-Friendly Options
Some brands offer recycled bamboo toilet paper as a more sustainable alternative. Recycled products use fewer raw materials and energy during production, which can further lower your carbon footprint.
9. Affordability & Value for Money
While bamboo toilet paper tends to be more expensive than conventional toilet paper, you should still look for brands that provide good value for money. Consider brands offering bulk packs, subscriptions, or discounts for first orders. Free shipping or promotions like bundle deals can also help lower the cost.
10. Softness & Strength
Despite being eco-friendly, bamboo toilet paper should still be soft and strong. Many customers prefer products that balance strength and comfort. You can read reviews and customer feedback to gauge the softness and absorbency of different bamboo toilet paper brands.
11. Certified by Third-Party Organisations
Besides B Corp and FSC, there are other certifications to look for, such as:
- Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): Ensures organic production processes.
- Cradle to Cradle: Focuses on sustainability and the circular economy.
- ISO Certifications: Indicate adherence to international standards for environmental management.
12. Customer Reviews & Ratings
Reading customer reviews can give insight into the quality of the product, the softness, and the dissolution rate (how quickly the paper breaks down in water). Look for reviews that discuss how the product performs in terms of comfort, durability, and whether it is septic tank safe.
By considering these factors, you can ensure you’re choosing a bamboo toilet roll brand that aligns with your values and contributes positively to the environment and society.
Our Tried & Tested Bamboo Toilet Roll Review
This bamboo toilet roll review is 100% honest, we have NOT worked with any of these brands and have purchased them all ourselves.
1. The Cheeky Panda
Based in the UK, The Cheeky Panda offers 100% bamboo toilet rolls sourced from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified forests. Their products are free from toxic chemicals, making them suitable for sensitive skin. They provide options for both bleached and unbleached rolls, catering to different preferences.
Cheeky Panda are our personal favourite bamboo toilet roll. We have been using them for years now and find them perfect for us. Yes they are quite expensive if you buy direct from their website. However, we always buy them in when there’s a sale on, or from Amazon as it’s always the cheapest. They come in either unwrapped cardboard boxes, or in paper packaging, so no plastic at all.
Where to Buy: Amazon (Cheapest price)
Price per 45 rolls: £27.03
2. Who Gives A Crap
This brand offers bamboo toilet paper that is free from inks, dyes, or scents. Notably, they donate 50% of their profits to help build toilets for those in need, combining product quality with social impact.
What’s great about this brand is that you can either buy bamboo toilet paper, or 100% recycled toilet paper (slightly cheaper). They are great quality toilet rolls and very soft, however, not my first choice for the below reasons…
Due to the funky individual packaging, they could be a fun little gift. However, i personally think the individual wrapping of each roll is such a waste of packaging. You don’t need to have each one wrapped up – unless you want to have them on display and looking pretty.
The price of these, especially when compared to Cheeky Panda put them out of the running for me. Too expensive for something you literally throw down the toilet!
Where to Buy: Who Gives a Crap Official Website
Price per 48 rolls: £44.00 (Bamboo) or £39 (Recycled).
3. Bazoo
Bazoo provides 100% bamboo toilet paper with a focus on environmental sustainability. Their rolls are individually wrapped with information on endangered wildlife, adding an educational aspect to their product. Customers have praised the longevity and quality of their rolls.
Like Who Gives A Crap, these toilet rolls are also individually wrapped. So, if you’re looking for a toilet roll that you can display in your bathroom, then these are great. However, if you just want a great quality, no frills bamboo roll, then i still think Cheeky Panda is the better option.
The Bazoo toilet rolls also have a different texture. They are bit more like a waffle texture, and not quite so soft. The price is also on the higher end too – even with the subscriber discount.
Where to Buy: Bazoo Toilet Paper Official Website
Price per 48 rolls: £40 (Unbleached Bamboo) or £41 (Regular Bamboo).
4. Naked Sprout
Naked Sprout offers unbleached, chemical-free bamboo toilet rolls. Their commitment to organic products and minimal environmental impact has garnered positive reviews from eco-conscious consumers.
Naked Sprout is a lot more like Cheeky Panda in terms of pricing and their no frills products. They don’t individually wrap each toilet roll and come in a brown recyclable box. They only toilet paper they sell are the brown unbleached rolls or either bamboo or recycled paper.
We have used these a few times before and love that you can start or stop your subscription any time. They are great quality and feels super soft to use. We often alternate between Cheeky Panda and Naked Sprout as they are both great toilet loo roll options.
Where to Buy: Naked Sprout Official Website
Price per 48 rolls: £35.99
5. Tiboo
Tiboo offers both wrapped and unwrapped luxury bamboo toilet paper. Their brand focuses on sustainability and minimising their environmental impact. Their toilet rolls are plastic free, natually hypoallergenic and made from Panda safe bamboo. They also support projects like the fruit tree project in Malawi with every order placed.
These toilet rolls are very soft, and don’t rip mid use. They are also great price-wise compared to other similar brands. We have used this brand a few times over the years (the unwrapped and unbleached ones of course), and love their quality. The perfect option if you want something simple and effective at a more affordable price than some other UK brands.
On their website it says they are zero waste, however, with their wrapped toilet rolls, i don’t see how that’s zero waste.
Where to Buy: Tiboo Official Website
Price per 48 rolls: £38.40 (Unbleached Bamboo)
6. Bumboo
Bumboo offers premium bamboo toilet paper with a focus on sustainability and minimal environmental impact. Their rolls are soft, strong, and packaged in plastic-free packaging. The brand is also committed to carbon offset initiatives, making it a popular eco-conscious choice.
Bumboo has both individually wrapped toilet paper as well as non wrapped. However, the wrapped ones are more muted, natural colours if you don’t like the jazzy colours of some other brands. Personally, a toilet roll is a toilet roll and doesn’t need to be wrapped in our opinion so you can save money with the unwrapped ones.
These loo rolls are super soft and don’t fall apart mid use, which is always fab! Another great aspect of this brand is that they give you a reminder 3 days before your next subscription incase you don’t quite need anymore yet. Ideal for people like me who always forget until reminded!
A great bamboo option for those looking for a cheaper option, yet still wanting good quality and reliability.
Where to Buy: Bumboo Official Website
Price per 48 rolls: £33.91 (First x2 order prices – then £39.90)
How To Save Money On Bamboo Toilet Roll
While bamboo toilet paper is a more sustainable alternative to conventional toilet paper, it often comes with a higher cost. However, there are ways to reduce the expense:
1. Buy Toilet Roll in Bulk
Many brands offer discounts for bulk purchases, reducing the cost per roll. Look for multi-pack options or subscribe to a delivery service for extra savings.
2. Look for Promotions and Discounts
Brands often provide first order discounts, loyalty programs, or bundle deals. Check for affiliate links and promotional offers that include free shipping.
3. Compare Prices Across Retailers
Check multiple online stores, including Amazon, independent eco-friendly retailers, and supermarket brands, to find the best deal. Some brands offer discounts when purchasing directly from their website.
4. Choose a Toilet Roll Subscription Service
Several brands, such as Who Gives a Crap and Grove Collaborative, offer subscription services that provide consistent savings and convenience.
5. Consider Recycled Toilet Roll Options
If the cost of bamboo toilet paper is too high, opting for recycled toilet paper is another eco-friendly alternative that tends to be more affordable.
6. Reduce Your Toilet Paper Consumption
Using less toilet paper overall can help lower costs. Opt for premium bamboo toilet paper that is more absorbent, requiring fewer sheets per use.
What To Consider When Switching To Bamboo Toilet Roll
To lower the higher cost associated with bamboo toilet paper, consumers can buy in bulk, take advantage of affiliate links offering discounts, or look for first order promotions. Storage space can also be a consideration, with some brands shipping in a recyclable cardboard box rather than plastic packaging. While the best bamboo toilet paper may not be as cheap as supermarket brands of regular toilet paper, the convenience of Amazon and other mortar stores makes them easy to access.
Bamboo pulp used in the manufacturing process ensures softness and durability, making bamboo paper towels and reusable toilet paper viable options as well. Brands like Seventh Generation and Grove Collaborative also offer recycled option paper products to further reduce carbon footprint and toilet paper consumption.
Considering sea freight and supply chain logistics is also essential when ordering bamboo toilet rolls internationally to minimise carbon emissions. The toilet paper industry is evolving, and more eco-friendly options are becoming available for consumers looking for a more sustainable alternative to traditional toilet paper.
What Is Traditional Toilet Paper Made From?
Traditional toilet paper is typically made from wood pulp, which is derived from trees such as pine, spruce, and fir. The production process involves turning the wood into a slurry of cellulose fibers, which are then pressed, dried, and turned into rolls of toilet paper. Some brands may use a mix of virgin wood pulp and recycled paper, though the use of virgin wood pulp is still widespread in the industry.
To produce regular toilet paper, manufacturers often use a bleaching process involving chemicals such as chlorine dioxide or elemental chlorine to whiten the paper and give it a soft texture. This can sometimes leave behind traces of chemicals, which may contribute to skin irritation or other sensitivities for some people.
Additionally, traditional toilet paper can be wrapped in plastic packaging, contributing to environmental concerns regarding plastic waste.
Bamboo Toilet Roll – FAQ’s
Is bamboo toilet paper any good?
Yes! Bamboo toilet paper is soft, strong, and highly absorbent. It is an eco-friendly toilet paper alternative to regular toilet paper, reducing deforestation and minimising environmental impact.
Does bamboo toilet paper block the toilet?
No, bamboo toilet paper dissolves quickly and is safe for septic tanks. It is designed to break down efficiently, reducing the risk of clogs.
What is the best toilet roll in the UK?
Popular choices include The Cheeky Panda, Naked Sprout, and Bumboo. Each brand of toilet paper offers high-quality, sustainable toilet paper options.
Does bamboo toilet paper break down quickly?
Yes, bamboo toilet paper is biodegradable and dissolves faster than conventional toilet paper, making it a great choice for plumbing and septic systems.
What is the healthiest toilet paper to use?
Bamboo toilet paper is considered a healthy option because it is free from harsh chemicals, fragrances, and dyes, making it ideal for sensitive skin.
What dissolves bamboo toilet paper?
Bamboo toilet paper dissolves naturally in water. It requires no special treatment and can be safely flushed without causing blockages.
Bamboo toilet roll is an excellent eco-friendly alternative to conventional toilet paper, offering sustainability, quality, and ethical benefits. With numerous sustainable brands available, consumers can find a product that suits their preferences while reducing their environmental impact.
What is your favourite brand of bamboo toilet paper? Is there anything you would add to this bamboo toilet roll review?
Great article!