Toxic Toilet Paper and a Solution

Toilet paper, a ubiquitous household item, is often considered innocuous, yet a closer examination reveals several toxic and environmentally harmful components. The toxicity of toilet paper can be attributed to several factors, including its production process, ingredients, and disposal methods.

Chlorine Bleaching: Most toilet paper is bleached using chlorine dioxide or elemental chlorine. This process, while making the paper white, also produces dioxins, a group of highly toxic chemicals that can cause reproductive and developmental problems, damage the immune system, and potentially lead to cancer (EPA, 2021). Although the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has regulations to minimize dioxin emissions, trace amounts still remain in the final product.

Fragrances: Many toilet papers are scented, with fragrances often containing phthalates, a group of plasticizing chemicals used to make fragrances last longer. Phthalates have been linked to hormone disruption, reproductive defects, and other health issues ( Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2019). Unfortunately, the fragrance industry is largely unregulated, and companies are not required to disclose the specific chemicals used in their fragrances.

Resin Acid Sizing: To prevent ink from smudging, some toilet papers are treated with resin acid sizing. These alkyl ketene dimers (AKDs) and alkenyl succinic anhydrides (ASAs) can cause skin irritation and allergic reactions in some individuals (European Chemicals Agency, 2021).

BPA and BPS in Recycled Toilet Paper: Some recycled toilet papers may contain bisphenol A (BPA) or bisphenol S (BPS), chemicals used in the production of some recycled paper products. Both BPA and BPS have been linked to hormone disruption and other health problems (National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, 2019).

Environmental Impact: Beyond the health implications, toilet paper production also has significant environmental impacts. The production of virgin pulp for toilet paper contributes to deforestation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions (Stand.earth, 2021). Additionally, the disposal of used toilet paper contributes to landfill waste and, in some cases, sewage system blockages.

To mitigate these issues, consumers can opt for unbleached, unscented, recycled, or 100% post-consumer waste toilet paper. Moreover, considering alternatives like bidets or family cloth can significantly reduce the environmental impact and exposure to toxic chemicals.

Action Steps:

1. Choose unbleached, unscented toilet paper to avoid dioxins and phthalates.
2. Opt for recycled or 100% post-consumer waste toilet paper to reduce environmental impact.
3. Consider using bidets or family cloth for a more sustainable and healthier option.