Types of toilet paper - what papers are available on the market?

The invention of toilet paper dates back to the sixth century, it took place in China. This marked the beginning of a multi-stage development of the quality of this product. Once a luxury, today it accompanies people every day. Let's take a look at what types of paper we can distinguish today and how they differ from each other.

Today we can distinguish three main types of toilet paper, applying to them three main measures: composition, size and ecology:

1. Toilet paper made of pure cellulose

• Composition: Made exclusively of primary cellulose, which ensures softness, durability and greater absorbency.
• Size: Available in both standard household rolls and large industrial Jumbo rolls.
• Ecology: The production of paper from pure cellulose is usually associated with a higher environmental burden, as it comes from new tree resources, which contributes to deforestation. However, some brands strive to use cellulose from certified forests, which reduces the negative impact on the environment.

2. Recycled toilet paper

• Composition: Made entirely or largely from processed paper materials, such as newspapers or cardboard, which often gives it a slightly grayish hue. Products can vary in quality depending on the degree of processing of the recycled materials.
• Size: Widely available in standard sizes, but also in industrial Jumbo rolls up to 130 meters long, making it an economical choice for high-traffic areas.
• Ecology: This is an environmentally friendly option, as recycling paper allows for a reduction in waste and limits the cutting of trees. The production process uses less water and energy than producing paper from pure cellulose.

3. Toilet paper made from a mixture of cellulose and waste paper

• Composition: This type of paper combines both cellulose fibers and processed waste paper. This offers a compromise between quality and ecology, combining the softness of cellulose with the environmental benefits of waste paper.
• Sizes: Available in many variants - from smaller rolls to large Jumbo rolls up to 150 meters long.
• Ecology: Because it uses some recycled materials, it is a sustainable choice, while maintaining better softness and durability than paper made from pure waste paper.
  
  The best solution is bulk packaging. The price per roll reaches the most favorable ratio of quality to price. 

It is also important to pay attention to which paper will work best in different places. Everything depends on the traffic intensity, the characteristics of the facility, and the consumer's requirements.

I. Schools and educational institutions

For schools and educational institutions, the best solution is jumbo toilet paper made from recycled paper. This choice is not only economical, but also ecological. Recycled paper is durable and efficient, and large jumbo rolls reduce the need for frequent refills, which is crucial in high-traffic areas. By choosing recycled paper, educational institutions support recycling and environmental responsibility.

II. Budget units and public institutions (offices, libraries)

In public institutions such as offices or libraries, paper made from a mixture of cellulose and recycled paper will work well, available in large jumbo rolls or folded form. This solution is economical and convenient, as large rolls or folded packs are easy to refill. The mixture of cellulose and recycled paper provides the right durability and comfort of use, while reducing costs and supporting the environment.

III. High-traffic areas (restaurants, shopping centers, train stations)

In places with high traffic, such as restaurants, train stations, or shopping centers, it is worth using two-ply Jumbo toilet paper made of pure cellulose. This type of paper offers comfort and durability, which is important for customers who expect high quality. Large Jumbo rolls allow for long use and minimize the frequency of replacement, which speeds up and facilitates maintenance of bathrooms in high-traffic areas.​

IV. Private consumers (households)

In households, the best choice is standard toilet paper made of pure cellulose, preferably two or three-ply. Private consumers usually value comfort and softness, and cellulose products provide high quality usage. Mixed variants are also available, containing a portion of recycled paper, which offer better ecological properties without sacrificing convenience.

V. Companies and offices

In offices, folded or small roll toilet paper made of a mixture of cellulose and recycled paper works well. Folded paper ensures hygienic and economical dispensing, which reduces consumption and improves comfort in shared toilet areas. The mixture of cellulose and recycled paper is an economical and durable solution, which also supports the idea of sustainable development.

Author: Kacper Błaszczyk​