Toilet paper is a ubiquitous household item, often overlooked in its significance. However, recent research has spotlighted this everyday product’s potential health risks and environmental impacts. Various toilet papers have been found to contain harmful chemicals, which pose risks ranging from skin irritations to more severe conditions like cancer and hemorrhoids.^[1-7] This comprehensive analysis aims to uncover the lesser-known aspects of toilet paper and explore safer, more sustainable alternatives.

The Alarming Chemical Makeup of Toilet Paper

Toilet paper, seemingly harmless, may harbor a range of hazardous substances. The extent of these chemicals often correlates with the product’s aesthetic and sensory attributes:

• Chlorine: Commonly used to achieve the bright white color of toilet paper, chlorine is a major concern. It can lead to skin irritation, particularly in sensitive areas, and heighten the risk of infections, especially among women prone to yeast infections.^[1]
• Furans and Dioxins: These are toxic by-products of the chlorine bleaching process. Exposure to furans and dioxins has been linked to severe health problems, including liver disorders, chronic cystic acne, reproductive issues, and an increased risk of cancer.^[2]
• Formaldehyde: Added to enhance the strength of toilet paper, formaldehyde is a recognized carcinogen. It can also cause skin rashes and respiratory issues and irritate the eyes, nose, and throat.^[3]
• Petroleum-based Mineral Oils and Paraffin: These ingredients, used to improve softness and add fragrance, are also known carcinogens and can lead to skin irritation and rashes.^[4]
• Fragrances: The chemical concoctions used in scented toilet paper can upset the natural pH balance of sensitive areas, leading to discomfort and potential health risks.^[5]
• Bisphenol A (BPA): Often found in recycled toilet paper, BPA is a hormone-disrupting chemical associated with various health issues, including reproductive, neurological, and cardiovascular problems.^[6]

These chemicals have the potential to permeate the skin and enter the bloodstream, particularly through the absorbent areas around the vagina and anus, posing significant health risks with regular use.^[7]

The PFAS Concern in Toilet Paper

A startling revelation came from a study investigating 17 well-known toilet paper brands for PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals.” These persistent chemicals can remain in the body and the environment for long periods. The health implications of PFAS exposure are severe, including cancer, asthma, thyroid disease, liver damage, and fertility issues. Notably, even brands that market themselves as gentle or eco-friendly, such as Charmin Ultra Soft and Seventh Generation, were found to have concerning levels of PFAS.^[8]

Environmental Impact of Traditional Toilet Paper

Exploring Healthier Alternatives

Given the risks associated with traditional toilet paper, there are several healthier and more environmentally friendly alternatives:

• Bidets: Widely used in various parts of the world, bidets provide a water-based cleaning method that is gentle on the skin and reduces the risk of irritation and infections. They are available as full bidet installations or as toilet seat attachments that offer adjustable water pressure and temperature controls.^[7]
• Handheld Bidet Sprayers: These are an easy-to-install alternative next to the toilet, allowing for targeted cleaning with a simple nozzle trigger. Ensuring the use of filtered water in bidets and sprayers is crucial to avoid contaminants present in tap water.^[7]
• Bamboo Toilet Paper: Given its sustainable credentials, bamboo toilet paper typically avoids harmful chemicals and biodegrades entirely. Moreover, it utilizes a rapidly growing resource, making it a deforestation-free alternative. Notably, brands like Bamboo champion such environmentally conscious practices.^[9]

Conclusion

1. Majerovich, Jo Ann et al. “Chronic vulvar irritation: could toilet paper be the culprit?.” Canadian family physician Medecin de famille canadien vol. 56,4 (2010): 350-2.
2.  Peivasteh-Roudsari, Leila et al. “Origin, dietary exposure, and toxicity of endocrine-disrupting food chemical contaminants: A comprehensive review.” Heliyon vol. 9,7 e18140. 11 Jul. 2023, doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e18140
3. “Formaldehyde and Cancer Risk.” National Cancer Institute, www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances/formaldehyde/formaldehyde-fact-sheet. Accessed 19 Dec. 2023.
4. “Mineral Oils: Untreated and Mildly Treated – Cancer-Causing Substances.” National Cancer Institute, www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/substances/mineral-oils.
5. Pastor-Nieto, María-Antonia, and María-Elena Gatica-Ortega. “Ubiquity, Hazardous Effects, and Risk Assessment of Fragrances in Consumer Products.” Current treatment options in allergy vol. 8,1 (2021): 21-41. doi:10.1007/s40521-020-00275-7
6. Santoro, Antonietta et al. “Neuro-toxic and Reproductive Effects of BPA.” Current neuropharmacology vol. 17,12 (2019): 1109-1132. doi:10.2174/1570159X17666190726112101
7. Nicole, Wendee. “A question for women’s health: chemicals in feminine hygiene products and personal lubricants.” Environmental health perspectives vol. 122,3 (2014): A70-5. doi:10.1289/ehp.122-A70
8. Segedie, Leah. “How Toxic Is Your Toilet Paper? Investigation of Brands.” MAMAVATION, 17 Nov. 2023, www.mamavation.com/brands/toilet-paper.html.
9. Ashley Jordan, Shelley Vinyard. “The Issue with Tissue.” Be a Force for the Future, 19 Sept. 2023, www.nrdc.org/resources/issue-tissue.