Mamavation was asked by our audience if toilet paper contains toxic PFAS “forever chemicals.” To find out, we sent popular toilet paper products to a lab for testing in our latest consumer study on PFAS.
You’ve relied on Mamavation for information on green beauty makeup, cookware, and water filters without PFAS. Now, join us for a study on PFAS in toilet paper. Scroll down for raw data from our EPA-certified lab.
This study was done in partnership with Environmental Health News and reviewed by experts in the field. Donations were provided by Mamavation community members and Environmental Health News. Affiliate links are included in this post.
PFAS are chemicals used for their resistance properties in consumer products. Mamavation tested 17 toilet paper products for PFAS markers and found that 24% contained indications of these chemicals.
Levels of organic fluorine, a marker for PFAS, were found between 10-35 parts per million in the products tested. 50% of products with detectable levels were made from bamboo.
The health impacts of exposure to PFAS are concerning and can affect immunity, vaccination response, allergies, growth, and more. Exposure through personal care products like toilet paper could have potential risks, especially in intimate areas. However, we do have some indications from studies conducted on dermal exposure and the potential issues it may cause:
◦ A study revealed that dermal exposure to PFBA resulted in liver effects and showed similar outcomes to oral exposure to PFBA and PFOA.
◦ Another study focused on PFAS in infant car seats found that PFAS could transfer from fabric to sweat, indicating a potential risk of dermal exposure.
◦ Additionally, a study found that dermal exposure mirrors oral exposure to PFOA and can have immunotoxic effects.
Linda S. Birnbaum, Scientist Emeritus and Former Director of the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and National Toxicology Program, stated that “PFAS cause effects in males and females of animals and people in nearly every organ and at every life stage. Because toilet paper is designed to come into contact with such sensitive areas of the body, it is reasonable to be concerned about this exposure.”
• Bleaching — posing potential health and environmental risks — Toilet paper has been linked to chronic irritation of the vulva due to the presence of bleach. Dyes derived from petroleum can also be utilized to alter the color of the toilet paper.
A 2010 study discovered that toilet paper may contribute to chronic vulvar irritation because formaldehyde, a carcinogen, was used to enhance the strength of the toilet paper. This raises concerns for any toilet paper using such bleaching methods.
The American Forest and Paper Association (AFPA) acknowledges these bleaching methods, with each having its own advantages and drawbacks:
◦ Elemental chlorine bleaching — Utilizes elemental chlorine to bleach and soften toilet paper, potentially polluting the environment. Although most products produced in North America no longer employ this method, paper products manufactured overseas are more likely to do so.
◦ Elemental Chlorine Free (ECF) — While not using elemental chlorine, this method involves a chlorine derivative like chlorine dioxide, which is less toxic than elemental bleach.
◦ Process Chlorine Free (PCF) — Commonly used by recycled paper products not re-bleached with chlorine-based compounds. Due to the recycled nature with the PCF method, it is uncertain whether the virgin papers were bleached with elemental chlorine or chlorine dioxide.
◦ Totally Chlorine Free (TCF) — No chlorine or chlorine compounds are used to bleach the pulp; instead, oxygen-based agents or hydrogen peroxide are utilized. However, TCF is primarily executed in China, where regulations may be lacking, raising concerns about safety standards.
◦ Unbleached — Indicates untreated paper, typically rough in texture.
• Additional toxic additives that are not suitable for toilet paper — Toilet paper with scents, lotions, and flushable wipes may contain problematic ingredients either as part of their composition or manufacturing process. It remains unclear if PFAS are involved in the production or use of these additional ingredients. However, it is evident that such products do not align with eco-friendly or sustainable toilet paper standards.
◦ Polyethylene Glycol (PEGs) — A concern with flushable wipes, as many contain various PEG compounds. While ethoxylated ingredients like PEGs pose minimal risk to humans, the ethoxylation process can leave behind trace amounts of carcinogens like ethylene oxide and 1,4-dioxane.
◦ Undisclosed fragrances — The undisclosed nature of fragrance components makes it impossible to determine their potential harm or allergenic effects.
Synthetic musks and phthalates are often hidden in undisclosed “fragrance” and are potent endocrine-disrupting chemicals linked to various health issues.
◦ Paraffin wax — Derived from petroleum by-products.
Therefore, opting for toilet paper that minimizes harm to both our bodies and the environment is a prudent choice.
• Bisphenol A (BPA) or Bisphenol S (BPS) contamination in recycled toilet paper — While recycled paper is an environmentally friendly option, it may harbor bisphenols like BPA and BPS.
Studies have revealed that bisphenols like BPA are present in recycled toilet paper, sourced from thermal receipt paper and shipping labels contaminated with BPA and BPS. These bisphenols are known endocrine disruptors linked to reproductive issues, early puberty, low sperm count, obesity, and breast cancer.
(Fortunately, thanks to Mamavation, concerns regarding bisphenols like BPA or BPS on Target’s receipt paper have been addressed. Following a petition with over 50,000 signatures, Target made their receipts safer in 2020. Other brands like Trader Joe’s, Best Buy, and CVS have also taken steps, although some brands are yet to address this issue.)
Estimation of Potential PFAS Exposure Through Toilet Paper
According to 2018 statistics, the average American uses 12.7 kg of toilet paper annually, which ultimately reaches sewage systems. If all toilet paper contained 10 ppm, the total amount flushed by the average person in the US in 2018 (12.7 kg = 12,700 g = 12,700,000 mg) could potentially lead to PFAS exposure. Assuming 10% of tissue used in 2018 was contaminated at 10 ppm and all toilet paper was disposed of in sewage, the environmental PFAS release for that year can be estimated.
Hence, roughly 0.4165 tonnes would be discharged into the environment through sewage sludge and municipal wastewater. One of our key advisors has insightful information to share:
“The film Dark Waters showcased a horrifying injustice surrounding the PFAS compound, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). By shedding light on this injustice, Robert Bilott, the attorney who fought against DuPont over the PFOA contamination of the Parkersburg community, has emerged as a heroic figure in American history. His efforts led to the largest epidemiological study ever conducted, which revealed that PFOA can have significant health impacts even at low doses.
Other PFAS compounds possess similar harmful properties to PFOA. Due to the fact that PFAS compounds are incredibly difficult for nature to break down within a reasonable timeframe, the American populace appears unable to avoid their effects.
“It is no longer acceptable for traceable amounts of PFAS to be present in everyday consumer goods like toilet paper,” stated Terrence Collins, the Teresa Heinz Professor of Green Chemistry and Director of the Institute for Green Sciences at Carnegie Mellon University.
Sustainability Concern — TP Production Harms Largest Carbon Sink in the World
When selecting your toilet paper, it’s important to consider the impact on our planet – much of the toilet paper in the U.S. is sourced from the Canadian Boreal Forest, which is the largest carbon sink globally.
According to Consumer Reports, Americans use nearly 8 million tons of toilet paper annually. Paper production, including toilet paper, paper towels, baby wipes, tissue paper, coffee filters, and writing paper, has a detrimental effect on the environment, leaving a significant carbon footprint and depleting forests worldwide. In fact, the National Resource Defense Council has identified the paper production industry as the third-largest polluter.
A vital area for carbon capture is the Boreal Forest in Canada, located in North America. Your toilet paper likely originated from this forest, which serves as the world’s largest carbon sink. Opting for alternatives like bamboo and sugarcane instead of toilet paper made from wood pulp can help reduce this impact. Consider how your choice of toilet paper can contribute to combating climate change.
According to a report by the National Resources Defense Fund, “industrial logging claims over a million acres of Boreal forest each year, equivalent to seven National Hockey League rinks every minute, partly to meet the demand for tissue products in the U.S.”
In essence, choosing alternatives can make a difference. The Boreal forest is being cut down due to the demand for toilet paper made from wood pulp. By opting for bamboo and sugarcane-based toilet paper, you can help reduce this impact.
Options to Toilet Paper for Your Home — The Bidet
If you’ve traveled to Europe, the Middle East, or Asia, you may have encountered a bidet. These water-based systems provide a cleaner alternative to toilet paper. Some bidets are standalone washbasins near the toilet, while others can be attached to a regular toilet. By using a bidet, you can eliminate the need for bulk toilet paper purchases. Here are some bidet options to consider to reduce toilet paper usage:
Hello Tushy Classic Bidet (20% off with code “NUMBERTWO2”)
Luxe Self-Cleaning Bidet
Luxe NEO Bidet 185 Plus
CRX Smart Toilet Bidet
SmartBidet Electronic Bidet Seat
Bio Bidet Bliss Elongated Toilet Seat
SmartBidet Electric Bidet Seat
Brondell Swash Elongated Bidet
Brondell Advanced Bidet
BLAUX Electric Portable Bidet
Sanamity Toilet with Bidet and Dryer
Mamavation’s Analysis of Toilet Paper and PFAS ‘Forever Chemicals’ — Lab Results
Mamavation conducted testing on 17 different toilet paper products at an EPA-certified lab to detect PFAS “forever chemicals.” The products included conventional toilet paper, FSC certified toilet paper, bamboo toilet paper, and bamboo and sugarcane blended toilet paper. We did not specifically target products for septic systems, but some are considered septic safe.
The lab utilized marker testing to identify potential PFAS presence in toilet paper products. Organic fluorine is a marker for PFAS, as all PFAS chemicals are carbon-based compounds containing fluorine. The lab utilized the Determination of Total Fluorine by Oxygen Flask Combustion and Ion-Selective Electrode method to test for total fluorine.
Among the 17 brands tested, 4 showed detectable levels of organic fluorine, indicating likely PFAS presence. Testing directly for PFAS is challenging due to the numerous compounds involved. Therefore, marker testing was employed, similar to that used by the food packaging industry to determine compostability.
Dr. Scott Belcher, Associate Professor at the Center for Environmental and Health Effects of PFAS at North Carolina State University, explained that fluoropolymers such as PTFE or Teflon® are common forms of PFAS that may contribute to the organic fluorine detected in food products.
“Methods for detecting individual PFAS, like PFOA or GenX, cannot specifically identify PTFE. However, total organic fluorine analysis accounts for all PFAS contaminants in food, including PTFE. This serves as a reliable ‘spot-check’ for consumer products,” stated Dr. Belcher.
[Update on 10/22: 6 additional brands were added based on public demand. 1 out of the 6 brands showed indications of PFAS, bringing the total to 6 out of 23 brands tested, or 22%.] La marca adicional que agregamos también estaba hecha de bambú, lo que elevó el total a 3/6 marcas con detecciones hechas de bambú.
• No nuestro papel higiénico favorito: según pruebas de laboratorio, estos productos contienen fluoruro orgánico, que es un marcador de los productos químicos “para siempre” PFAS. No recomendamos que compres de esta categoría.
◦ Papel higiénico Charmin Ultra Soft: 13 partes por millón (ppm) de fluoruro orgánico
◦ Papel higiénico Seventh Generation 100% Reciclado: 35 partes por millón (ppm) de fluoruro orgánico
◦ Papel higiénico de bambú Tushy: 10 partes por millón (ppm) de fluoruro orgánico
◦ Papel higiénico de bambú Who Gives a Crap: 11 partes por millón (ppm) de fluoruro orgánico
◦ Papel higiénico DeBella de bambú seguro para sépticos: 10 partes por millón (ppm) de fluoruro orgánico [actualizado el 10/22]
• Mejor papel higiénico: Estos productos no contenían fluoruro orgánico detectable pero no están hechos de materiales sostenibles. Estas marcas muy probablemente están utilizando materiales del Bosque Boreal en Canadá u otro bosque similar que está contribuyendo a la deforestación y agregando más carbono a la atmósfera. Se prefiere la certificación Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) sobre la certificación Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI) para las fibras.
Papel higiénico Angel Soft de 230+ hojas: No detecta fluoruro orgánico
Papel higiénico Cottonelle Mega Ultra Comfort Care: No detecta fluoruro orgánico
Papel higiénico Kirkland (Costco): No detecta fluoruro orgánico [actualizado el 10/22]
Papel higiénico Presto (Amazon) Ultra-Soft seguro para sépticos: No detecta fluoruro orgánico [actualizado el 10/22]
Papel higiénico Scott de 1000 hojas por rollo: No detecta fluoruro orgánico
Papel higiénico Signature Select Mega Ultra Premium de Albertsons: No detecta fluoruro orgánico
Papel higiénico Super Soft Bath Tissue the Big Roll de Trader Joe’s: No detecta fluoruro orgánico [actualizado el 10/22]
Papel higiénico Quilted Northern Ultra Plush Soft and Strong Premium Comfort: No detecta fluoruro orgánico
Papel higiénico Value Corner de Safeway: No detecta fluoruro orgánico
• Mejor papel higiénico: Estos productos no contenían fluoruro orgánico detectable y también están hechos de materiales más sostenibles como pulpa de madera reciclada al 100%, bambú y azúcar de caña. Dado que a veces los papeles reciclados pueden contener cantidades mínimas de bisfenol S (BPS) o bisfenol A (BPA), preferimos que elijas las versiones de bambú o azúcar de caña. El procesamiento es libre de cloro o libre de cloro elemental y sin fragancia.
Papel higiénico de bambú Tree-Free de Caboo: No detecta fluoruro orgánico
Papel higiénico de bambú natural ecológico de Cheeky Panda: No detecta fluoruro orgánico [actualizado el 10/22]
Papel higiénico de bambú Cloud Paper: No detecta fluoruro orgánico [actualizado el 10/22]
Papel higiénico de bambú y caña de azúcar Treeless de ECOS: No detecta fluoruro orgánico
Papel higiénico de bambú Nature Z Way: No detecta fluoruro orgánico
Papel higiénico de papel reciclado al 100% de Open Nature: No detecta fluoruro orgánico
Papel higiénico de bambú y azúcar de caña de Public Goods: No detecta fluoruro orgánico
Papel higiénico de bambú de Reel: No detecta fluoruro orgánico [actualizado el 3/23] (¡Utiliza el código de descuento “MAMAVATION” para obtener un 20% de descuento en el producto!)
Papel higiénico Tree-Free Seedling de Grove (hecho con bambú certificado por FSC): No detecta fluoruro orgánico
Papel higiénico reciclado al 100% de Sprouts: No detecta fluoruro orgánico
Investigaciones adicionales de Mamavation para ayudar a tu familia
Mamavation ha estado trabajando arduamente para descubrir dónde encontrar los productos químicos “para siempre” PFAS en alimentos y otros productos que compramos y traemos a nuestros hogares. Por eso hemos decidido encargar nuestros propios estudios de consumidores sobre indicaciones de PFAS en diferentes categorías de consumo y compartir esa información contigo.
Lentes de contacto blandos
Maquillaje de belleza verde
Hilo dental
Papel higiénico
Ropa interior para períodos
Tampones
Toallas sanitarias, protectores diarios y pañales para incontinencia
Electrolitos
Pastas y salsas de tomate
Mantequillas de frutos secos (mantequilla de cacahuate, etc.)
Aceites de cocina (aceite de oliva, aceite de almendra, aceite de canola, etc.)
Ketchup
Ropa deportiva (pantalones de yoga)
Sujetadores deportivos
Papel pergamino
Moldes para cupcakes
Pajitas sin plástico
Probióticos para niños
Pisos de bambú
Cochecitos para bebés
También tenemos otras investigaciones sobre productos no tóxicos para tus hijos o el resto de tu familia. Aquí tienes algunas que creemos que te gustarán.
Mejores colchonetas de yoga
Mejores colchones orgánicos
Mejores purificadores de aire
Mejores utensilios de cocina
Mejores leches vegetales
Mejores filtros de agua para la filtración de PFAS
Mejor colágeno
Mejores bebidas de reposición de electrolitos, bebidas deportivas y agua de coco
Mejores saunas infrarrojas
Mejor espuma de baño
Haz clic aquí para ver una lista completa de investigaciones de productos.
Acerca del Autor
Leah Segedie es la Presidenta y Fundadora de Mamavation.com. Mamavation produce contenido premiado y estudios de consumidores independientes que examinan la intersección de los productos químicos disruptores endocrinos (EDC) y los productos cotidianos que se traen a los hogares estadounidenses. Muchos la han llamado “la verdadera FDA”.
Desde 2008, Mamavation ha estado ayudando a las mamás de todos los días a navegar por el supermercado encargando estudios de consumidores sobre alimentos, bebidas, productos de cuidado personal y otros productos similares, democratizando así la ciencia y las pruebas para todos.