It’s a tension that can quietly simmer in a household for years. You reach for the loo roll, only to find it’s been replaced with something that feels… wrong. One of you craves soft toilet paper that feels like wiping with a cloud, while the other demands a strong roll with the structural integrity of a suspension bridge.
Welcome to the great toilet paper debate. It’s a conflict as old as time (or at least as old as multi-ply).
Are you a staunch member of Team Soft or a card-carrying supporter of Team Strong? And more importantly, is there a toilet paper roll that satisfies both?
Why do shoppers have to choose between soft and strong toilet paper?
Manufacturing is the reason for this classic trade-off. To create cloud-like softness, paper makers use shorter, fluffier fibres. While these fibres feel delightful, they don’t interlock as tightly, which can reduce the paper’s overall strength.
For maximum strength, longer and more tightly woven fibres are the way to go. This creates a durable sheet, but it can come at the expense of that pillowy softness. On top of that, most brands pick one quality to shout about in their marketing, forcing you to choose a side in the loo roll aisle.
The case for soft toilet paper
Ah, soft toilet paper. It’s the plush, cushiony, luxurious option. Proponents of softness believe that the bathroom experience should be a gentle one. They want a paper that pampers their bums, especially if their skin is sensitive and prone to irritation.
For those on Team Soft, comfort is king. The potential downside? Sometimes, the softest rolls can be a bit… flaky, leaving behind linty remnants. And you might find yourself using a few extra squares to feel secure, which isn't ideal. The softness is also very different from tissues, which are not designed to break down in your pipes.
The benefits of strong toilet paper
On the other side of the aisle, we have the champions of strength. For this camp, there is nothing more terrifying than the dreaded poke-through. They need a toilet paper that is durable, reliable, and gets the job done with no fuss and no fear.
Team Strong values efficiency and peace of mind. They often use less paper and appreciate the clean, confident wipe that a robust roll provides. The trade-off, of course, is that some strong papers can feel a bit less forgiving, bordering on utilitarian. While they might have extra layers of strength, they aren’t always the kindest to your bum.
What’s the difference between soft and strong toilet paper?
At a technical level, it all comes down to the fibres and the finish. As we mentioned, short fibres generally equal soft, while long fibres equal strong.
The manufacturing process also plays a huge role. Features like embossing patterns – those little bumps and designs you see on the paper – can help lock the layers together for strength while also creating pockets of air that improve softness. It’s a delicate balancing act.
The toilet paper that ends the debate
For too long, we’ve been forced to pick a side. But what if you could have it all?
What if there were a toilet paper that could unite the household and bring peace to the bathroom once and for all? That’s where we come in.
100% bamboo rolls: the best of both worlds
This is the peacemaker. Our bamboo toilet paper is made with long, strong fibres that are naturally silky smooth. That means you get a roll that is both cushiony soft and incredibly strong. It’s the ultimate compromise, offering a premium, gentle wipe without sacrificing durability.
100% recycled rolls: strength you can feel good about
If your top priority is strength and sustainability, our 100% recycled rolls are your champion. They provide a strong, reliable wipe that you can count on, and they’re still comfy and gentle. Plus, you get the warm, fuzzy feeling of knowing you’re helping to reduce waste and save trees.
Conclusion
So, is soft or strong toilet paper better? The truth is, you shouldn't have to make a choice. Whether you’ve been a lifelong member of Team Soft or a die-hard fan of Team Strong, the real winner is a toilet paper that gives you both.
With Who Gives A Crap, you get a great wipe every time, and you help uncrap the world with every roll.
Find your perfect rollto end the debate in your home.