Is Fluffy Toilet Paper Really That Fantastic?

I was surprised when reading the over 500 comments on a recent Washington Post article titled "Environmentalists Seek to Wipe Out Plush Toilet Paper". The article presents the behind the scenes fight between environmentalists and toilet paper manufacturers revolving around the increase in popularity of extra soft toilet paper. The environmentalists argue that softer and fluffier toilet is causing too many older trees to be cut down (the older the tree, the better the fibers are to produce a smoother, stronger and longer product). While the toilet paper and facial tissue industry accounts for only 5% of the U.S forest products industry, the numbers seem to be on the rise as us Americans love the fluffier toilet paper and keep purchasing it over any other type.

My grandmother always told us that it's the small things in life that matter which is part of why I don't buy that fluffy stuff (nor do I buy paper towels); even though some argue that there are enough trees to keep on making the thick stuff, and it may be true, I still think there is no reason for it and that the more trees the better. I don't see the big deal on using toilet paper that is just plain old soft- like when I was a kid. Who needs all those extra ply's?

I think we better take a step back and analyze what we really need to make our life comfortable. If it's extra ply, extra soft and fluffy toilet then go ahead! But maybe we should scale back a bit and consider purchasing less fluffy toilet paper or toilet paper that is made with recycled content. The next time you purchase toilet paper for your home, think about it, and think about the small things that can matter.

Here are a few enviro- friendly toilet papers which have gotten some "soft" reviews:

• Seventh Generation 100% Recycled Bath Tissue
• Marcal Small Steps
• Trader Joe's 100% Recycled Toilet Paper
• Whole Foods 365 100% Recycled Toilet Paper

I am neither pro nor con on the argument of the environmentalists. But I like their message, which for me is, slow down and think "why" before you purchase.

Posted by Marcy Tate

Photo Credit: greenupgrader.com