Superheroes don't all wear capes. But it is a sure bet that they, too, are searching for the most valuable 1-ply, 2-ply, or 3-ply toilet paper.

Superheroes. They are just like us.

Okay, so toilet paper is not a normal subject in the stories–fiction or otherwise–regarding superheroes. In searching for what toilet paper works best, it often comes down to value and exactly what ply is desired.

Ply is ultra important. Read on to learn the difference between the three plies of toilet paper.

What is a ply and what does it mean?

Ply means the number of layers pressed together to make a roll. At a base level, the thickness increases with each toilet paper ply. Thin to begin, with 1-ply, and up to thick with 3-ply, providing more cush for the tush.

Absorbency, durability, quality, and impact on the planet are all additional factors when looking at the ply difference in toilet paper. Thankfully, though rocket science may have been involved at its origin, explaining the three types brings about a much simpler method.

What is 1-ply toilet paper?

This toilet paper is the thinnest on the market, and gets its best use in high-traffic areas. Areas where toilet paper is needed to last longer because of the number of visitors hitting the head. 

Airports, fast food establishments, hospitals, and schools are good examples of where this ply is most commonly used. Its benefits include being easier on plumbing, breaking down faster, and costing less.

In Spider-Man lore, Uncle Ben said, “With great power comes great responsibility.” (Or Voltaire said it first if you are into history and such). And with 1-ply, benefits come with downsides. Among them: not ideal for the home, tears easily, and is thin, so usage is bound to be higher.

To spare a square with 1-ply won’t go as far, so best to explore the more durable options with different plies.

What is 2-ply toilet paper?

By adding a layer to 1-ply, 2-ply toilet paper is simply two layers combined into one sheet. A distinct advantage is that this level of top remains soft and lightweight.

2-ply is beneficial for larger households (or, you know, when superhero teams assemble in one place). In large quantities, this type of tp is also affordable, with low-cost options available. This aspect, plus a good balance between cost and quality, helps keep households happy.

Eco-friendly options also expand with 2-ply, where fully recycled jumbo rolls help the environment. 

What is 3-ply toilet paper?

Three layers of cushion? Delightful because that’s what is in store with 3-ply toilet paper.

This is the most luxurious and premium option for bathroom tissue. It’s the most absorbent and strongest next to options with fewer plies.  

Plus, you can be a real hero when dipping into the 3-ply pool by examining options friendly to the environment. While more layers are applied to sheets in a roll, extra cushy bamboo toilet paper and 100 percent recycled toilet paper are honorable ways to help.

What is the difference between each ply?

The difference between 1-, 2-, and 3-ply toilet paper is the number of stacked layers per sheet. The ideal option for public areas where usage is high, plumbing is a concern, and there are dispensers that fit huge rolls is 1-ply. At home, though, 2- and 3-ply is a better way to go.

Opting for more plies for household use means more comfort but could also lead to less waste. Since paper with more plies works better, people have a tendency to require less than they grab in public with each trip to the bathroom.

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.

Does ply apply to tissues, too?

Facial tissues have plies, commonly in 2-ply or 3-ply variety. The tissue is multifaceted, aiding in runny noses and sneezes (gesundheit), makeup removal, dusting, and even wiping up minor messes.

The thicker ply of tissues is a considerable blessing, and keeping a well-stocked, 3-ply, forest-friendly tissue in your house is a desirable way to keep you and your guests comfortable.

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

Heroes or not, selecting the ply of toilet paper to fit your needs is an absolute must. The difference between the three plies is not

1-ply is often the kindest to plumbing systems but is also a toilet paper designed for heavy traffic. This ply is easiest and cheapest to buy in bulk. However, sheets are thin, and 1-ply is not ideal for home use.

With the 2- and 3-ply options, families find more absorbent and durable toilet paper. 2-ply tp is a cost-effective choice, where massive quantities are unnecessary for each wipe. Plus, it provides quality comfort without dipping into wallets and purses for a “superior” ply.

3-ply does deliver that option with three layers of cushion, offering thicker and more luxurious toilet paper.

Facial tissues and paper towels also take part in the game of plies. For the best value, be your own superhero by tossing toilet paper, tissues, and paper towels into a fantastic eco-friendly bathroom essentials bundle to save the most time and money.