Reel vs Cloud Paper: How Do They Stack Up?
So, you've loaded Reel Paper into one cart tab and Cloud Paper into another. Now, how do you choose which one to check out with? Before diving into shipping details — because typing all that in once is enough — let's weigh the options.
Doing your part for the planet doesn't need to be this hard. Sit back, let those tabs rest, and know that by the end of this article, you'll confidently press a firm "X" on one, or both, of those lingering pages.
Let's get into each brand's strengths and weaknesses, one ply at a time, to help you make the best choice for your bum.
What is Reel Paper?
Reel Paper is a company dedicated to sustainability. It offers 100% bamboo toilet paper and a range of eco-friendly products, including bamboo and recycled paper towels.
In the wild, you can recognize it by its distinctive brown wrapper with a big "r" in the middle. In partnership with One Tree Planted, it contributes to global reforestation efforts, helping to plant trees and restore forests.
Since starting in 2019, Reel has actively worked towards a greener planet, one tree at a time.
What are the benefits of Reel Paper?
Reel Paper offers a blend of eco-friendly and family-friendly features. Their tree-free toilet paper and paper towels are BPA-free and free from inks, dyes, chlorine, and fragrance, making them great for your family and the planet.
Reel Paper has even introduced one of its most unique features — kids' packaging. They now offer a little lemur's box that adds a wipe of fun with its coloring book wrappers and storybook to follow along.
Additionally, Reel Paper provides free shipping on orders within the contiguous United States and offers increasing discounts on subscriptions based on how much you order. They make it easy to go green and keep things interesting for the whole family.
What are the downsides of Reel?
Let's face it — there are some serious downsides, too. Before you rush to add it to your cart, let's look at the soiled parts.
Reel Paper only ships within the United States, which can be a major inconvenience for international customers. Additionally, it tends to be more expensive compared to competitors like Who Gives A Crap.
According to reviews, many people have described the product's texture as "scratchy" and "non-absorbent," with many even comparing it to sandpaper.
Customers find it rougher than other bamboo rolls available at local natural food stores, meaning this isn't just about the texture of eco-friendly products — it's a Reel problem.
What is Cloud Paper?
Cloud Paper floats above the rest with its dedication to the surrounding community and hand-crafted bundles. It offers a lineup of eco-friendly essentials, including bamboo toilet paper, paper towels, and tissues.
Beyond their commitment to sustainable products, Cloud Paper showers their community with kindness. They've partnered with Food Lifeline to donate over 120,000 rolls of toilet paper to food banks and shelters, helping those in need.
Additionally, Cloud Paper has teamed up with One Tree Planted to plant over 2,000 trees in reforestation projects across the Pacific Northwest.
What are the benefits of Cloud Paper?
Cloud Paper is toxin-free, with no PFAs, added scents, or pesticides in sight, ensuring a clean and safe choice for your home.
They have overachieved (if that were possible) in their sustainability efforts. They've partnered with CarbonFund to double, yes, double, offset all carbon emissions from transportation through reforestation programs.
When you buy from Cloud Paper you will enjoy free shipping within the United States and peace of mind with their 30-day refund policy. Plus, Cloud Paper actively donates to organizations of all sizes, providing toilet paper and paper towels to communities in need.
What are the downsides of Cloud Paper?
Don't float away on Cloud 9 just yet; the storms are about to roll in. Their smallest pack size is 24 rolls, which means trying it out requires committing to a larger order. If you are overseas, don't worry — you can't try it anyway. Cloud Paper only ships within the United States.
Reviews haven't all been blue skies, either. Concerns about product durability are common, with reports of the toilet paper shredding easily and leaving residue. There have also been complaints about rolls arriving unwrapped, raising sanitary concerns for consumers.
What’s the price per roll of Cloud Paper vs Reel Toilet paper?
When comparing Cloud Paper and Reel Toilet Paper, the cost difference isn’t far apart.
For a one-time purchase of a 24-pack, Reel costs $43.99, or $1.83 per roll, while Cloud Paper is $46.99, or $1.96 per roll. Looking at the cost per 100 sheets, Reel comes in at $0.61, while Cloud Paper is slightly higher at $0.65. So, Reel offers better value per sheet.
In terms of subscriptions, Reel offers up to a 16% discount, and Cloud Paper advertises up to a 21% discount (but the one-time purchase price is higher).
Reel is a bit more cost-effective, but it’s a close race.
The verdict: Reel vs Cloud Paper
Both get the job done, but they cater to slightly different preferences.
Cloud Paper may tempt you with a sweeter deal on subscriptions, but it's a bit like that friend who always insists on choosing the restaurant — limited options.
Both brands boast a respectable NRDC sustainability score of 400 (B grade) from the NRDC, using bamboo and plastic-free packaging.
Now, regarding looks, Reel takes the cake with its minimalist and sophisticated packaging. It's the kind of aesthetic that elevates your bathroom decor. On the flip side, Cloud Paper's packaging feels a bit too much like it belongs in a nursery — more baby powder than luxury bathroom vibes.
Cloud Paper reviews suggest it's softer than Reel. But watch out — some folks have noticed it can be a bit delicate, with concerns about durability and residue.
What’s the best alternative to Reel vs Cloud Paper?
Who says you only have two options? Who Gives A Crap stands out with a perfect blend of color and sophistication in their packaging.
They offer a 30-day money-back policy and share a strong environmental commitment akin to Cloud Paper. Who Gives A Crap donates 50% of its profits to ensure global access to clean water and sanitation, aligning with values of sustainability and social responsibility.
They match Reel's durability and flexibility while providing a wider range of product options and roll counts.
What truly sets Who Gives A Crap apart? They excel with international shipping and lead the eco-friendly game with their recycled toilet paper options (PST... it's even better for the environment than Bamboo).
So, next time you want to switch to an eco-friendly toilet paper company, take your head out of the clouds and get something you Reel-y want: someone Who Gives A Crap.
Conclusion: Eco-friendly toilet paper for the win!
Choosing between Reel and Cloud Paper boils down to priorities. Reel Paper impresses with its sophisticated packaging and durability despite concerns over texture and higher cost. In contrast, Cloud Paper offers hard-to-beat charitable contributions, an excellent refund policy, and a softer feel but needs help with product durability and option flexibility.
Both brands are limited to the United States. Yet Reel edges out with better packaging aesthetics, more roll options, and durability, making it the preferred choice. But, it was a close call.
However there's a new participant entering the race, and it beats out the competition. Who Gives A Crap gives you the best of both worlds — especially this one.
They offer a 30-day money-back guarantee and donate 50% of profits to global sanitation projects; Who Gives A Crap matches Reel's durability and flexibility while providing diverse product options. Standout features include international shipping and eco-friendly recycled toilet paper options, surpassing even bamboo in environmental impact.
So, next time you're ready to make a meaningful change to environmentally friendly toilet paper, choose Who Gives A Crap — because they do.