When it comes to toilet paper, the real story lies in the layers. Deciding between 1 ply, 2 ply, or 3 ply toilet paper is more than a numbers game — it’s about finding the balance of toilet paper quality, comfort and practicality. Not all plies are created equal — from the cozy comfort of three plies of toilet paper to the humble single ply, it’s about what toilet paper works for you. Now let’s get into the layers.

What is a ply, and what does it mean?

Ply refers to the number of paper layers pressed together to create a roll. At its simplest, the higher the toilet paper ply, the thicker the toilet paper. Starting with a single layer in 1-ply and moving up to 3 ply thickness for extra plushness, each ply adds more cush for your tush. But it’s not just about thickness — absorbency, durability, quality, and impact on the planet all come into play when comparing the ply in toilet paper. 

What is 1 ply toilet paper?

The thinnest option on the market, 1 ply toilet paper shines in high-traffic areas where supplies need to stretch further. Think airports, fast food joints, hospitals, and schools — places where restrooms see constant foot traffic. Its perks? It’s gentler on plumbing, breaks down quickly, and is budget friendly.

The trade offs? 1 ply doesn’t offer much in the way of comfort or durability. It’s thin, tears easily and often requires more sheets to be effective. For home use, it falls short. If you’re looking for something that spares you the hassle (and the squares), thicker options are worth considering.

What is 2-ply toilet paper?

True to its name, 2 ply toilet paper features two layers pressed into a single sheet. The result? A top layer that’s soft, lightweight and a step up in comfort.

Because it’s affordable in bulk, 2 ply is great for bigger households — offering a good balance of cost and quality. Plus, there are plenty of eco-friendly options available in 2 ply also expand, including fully recycled jumbo rolls not only help the environment but also keep your stash stocked for longer.

What is 3-ply toilet paper?

Think of 3 ply as the cashmere of toilet paper. Soft? Absolutely. Strong? Big time. Expensive? Not necessarily.

The most absorbent and undeniably the coziest choice, it delivers a premium experience every time. Best of all, cushy 3 ply bamboo toilet paper and 100% recycled rolls let you enjoy ultimate comfort without compromising the planet.

What is ply in the context of paper towels?

Paper towels also join in the “ply party” with 1-, 2-, or 3 ply options. Like with toilet paper, paper towels go from thin layers to thick, with the premium 3 ply the thickest, strongest, and softest among the bunch.

The most expensive 3 ply paper towels also come with the most expensive price tag. The best bet is to settle into the 2 ply category, especially considering the impact on the environment and the availability of 100 percent recycled paper towels as an option.

The ply party doesn’t stop with toilet paper — paper towels also come in 1-, 2- or 3 ply options. Thicker plies bring more strength and softness, making 3 ply the top tier choice for heavy duty messes. But that 3 ply paper towel thickness comes with a price. 

For everyday use, we think towels in the 2 ply category hit the sweet spot, offering durability and affordability. Eco-friendly options abound here, too, with 100 percent recycled paper towels making cleanup a win for both your home and the environment.

Does ply apply to tissues, too?

Your household’s ultimate multitasker, facial tissues do it all — sneezes, makeup touch ups, dusting, even soaking up minor spills. Available in 2 ply or 3 ply varieties, we’re partial to the thicker ones — there’s nothing worse than a tissue tapping out during a heavy-duty nose blow. 

Thicker plies provide extra comfort and durability, making 3-ply tissues a must-have. Keeping a supply of 3 ply, eco-friendly tissue on hand is a thoughtful way to keep everyone in your home comfortable and cared for.

Conclusion: 2- and 3-ply toilet paper for the win!

Let’s review: 1 ply is gentle on plumbing and suitable for super high traffic toilets, but falls short on comfort for home use. 2 ply TP  is a more practical choice, balancing affordability and comfort, while 3 ply rolls out the red carpet with its plush, cushioned luxury. When it comes to picking your toilet paper ply, we strongly recommend relying on 2- and 3 ply options.

And let’s not forget about tissues and paper towels—they’re in on the ply party too. For maximum convenience and savings, snag this eco-friendly bathroom essentials bundle to make bathroom restocking a breeze. Your wallet and the planet will thank you.