The label says “biodegradable,” so the toilet paper must be good for the planet, right?
Not so fast. Let’s talk about what biodegradable really means — and just how fast your toilet paper truly disappears after you’ve done your business.
We’re digging into the truth about biodegradable toilet paper: how well it breaks down, what it means for the environment and what’s actually safe to send down the drain.
Understanding the factors affecting toilet paper biodegradability
The term biodegradable refers to materials that naturally break down thanks to microorganisms like bacteria, fungi and moulds. Nature’s microscopic wrecking crew, these decomposers start the process, transforming waste into water, carbon dioxide and other nutrients. Next comes the cleanup squad: creepy crawlies like earthworms, beetles and millipedes, who polish off the process and turn waste into rich, healthy soil.
If it all sounds like magic, well, it kind of is. However not all products with a biodegradable label break down equally. How long it takes to decompose depends on the material, how it’s made and where it ends up.
In terms of materials commonly used to make toilet paper, bamboo, traditional virgin pulp and recycled paper all break down differently — and products treated with chemicals like bleach or synthetic coatings slow the process even more.
Oh, and where it ends up matters, too. Biodegradable stuff thrives in moist, open air conditions but struggles in landfills, where airflow and sunlight are in short supply.
How long does toilet paper take to break down?
Toilet paper is built to break down fast, thanks to its short, tearable cellulose fibres that dissolve easily in water. Once flushed, it breaks down into a thin sludge that flows effortlessly through sewage systems.
By the time it hits the treatment plant, most toilet paper has already broken down. From there, it heads to the sludge digester (incidentally: great name for a metal band) tanks, where it’s composted in a few months' time. That’s the ideal scenario — a quick and efficient process.
Of course, not all toilet paper takes that trip down the drain. Whether you’re using it to blow your nose or wipe up that mysterious gunk behind the toilet, once it’s tossed in the trash, things slow down dramatically.
Without the oxygen and moisture it needs to break down, toilet paper tossed into landfills can take years to decompose, instead of biodegrading in months like it does in a sewage system. Along the way, it releases methane, a greenhouse gas that’s a big contributor to climate change.
How to dispose of toilet paper responsibly
Flushing toilet paper is generally ideal for obvious reasons, but not everything deserves a free pass down the pipes. Never flush wipes or non-biodegradable items, as these products don't break down in water like toilet paper. They clog pipes, damage plumbing and cause big headaches at wastewater treatment plants. Plus, they take forever to decompose and can contaminate water supplies.
Want to take it up a notch? Composting toilets are even better than flushing. Composting toilets use aerobic decomposition to break down human waste without water or a traditional sewage connection. Regular toilet paper works well with composting toilets, breaking down much faster than in landfills. Better still? Recycled and bamboo toilet paper are more sustainable and decompose fast.
Which types of toilet paper are the most biodegradable?
Traditional virgin pulp toilet paper does eventually break down, but eco-friendlier options get the job done faster and come with fewer environmental consequences.
Recycled toilet paper tops the charts for sustainability. Crafted from post-consumer materials like office paper and newspapers, it helps curb deforestation, cuts down on production resources and keeps carbon emissions in check.
Another standout option is bamboo toilet paper. Bamboo grows super fast — up to 30 times faster than trees — making it a much more sustainable choice. Bamboo also absorbs more carbon dioxide and releases more oxygen than trees, helping reduce carbon footprints.
If making the switch to eco-friendly toilet paper is on your radar (and we’re guessing it is), it’s good to do your research. If you're used to using brands like Charmin, Angel Soft or Quilted Northern, it’s worth hitting pause to check their Natural Resources Defense Council's sustainability ratings. Traditional, big cat toilet paper brands mostly lack the eco-friendly benefits of recycled or bamboo options.
When shopping, it’s worth looking beyond the label. Check for certifications, partnerships and planet friendly perks like plastic-free packaging or carbon neutral shipping.
Conclusion: The power of biodegradable toilet paper
Choosing truly biodegradable products helps reduce waste, protects wildlife from harmful plastics, and cuts down on fossil fuels. But not all biodegradable TP breaks down equally — it’s worth understanding the factors that make a difference.
First off, the material matters: bamboo, recycled paper and traditional virgin pulp all decompose differently. Manufacturing makes a difference, too — as harsh chemicals like bleach or synthetic additives can also impact biodegradability.
How the TP is disposed of also plays a big role. Flushing speeds things up, as toilet paper decomposes quickly in water. But if it ends up in a landfill, decomposition can slow to a crawl thanks to limited air, moisture and sunlight.
So, how do you ensure you’re making the best choice for the planet? Start by looking for toilet paper with FSC and B-Corp™ certifications. These labels ensure that your toilet paper is made under strict environmental practices by companies truly committed to sustainability.
And if you want to take it a step further, consider Who Gives A Crap. With plastic-free packaging, carbon neutral shipping and a mission driven model that donates 50% of profits to sanitation projects worldwide, it’s sustainability that truly delivers — directly to your doorstep.
Ready to flush for the future? Check out Who Gives a Crap for toilet paper that's easy on your bum and the planet.