PFAS Found in Toilet Paper: What You Need to Know

by Neha Salgaonkar



Photo of several rolls of toilet paper

 

 

In recent years, growing concerns have emerged about PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, being found in everyday products. From cookware to food packaging, these chemicals are known for their durability and resistance to heat, oil, and water. Unfortunately, their persistence in the environment and potential health risks have led to them being dubbed "forever chemicals." But what happens when PFAS are discovered in something as seemingly harmless as toilet paper?

What are PFAS?

PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in a variety of industries since the 1940s. They're commonly found in products designed to repel grease, water, and stains. However, their environmental persistence makes them problematic. PFAS can remain in the environment for years, building up in both human and animal bodies, leading to potential health concerns like:

 

  • Liver damage
  • Immune system suppression
  • Increased risk of certain cancers
  • Hormonal disruptions

How Are PFAS Getting Into Toilet Paper?

You might be wondering, "How do PFAS end up in toilet paper?" The answer isn't entirely clear yet, but there are several possibilities:

 

  1. Recycled Paper Products: Many toilet paper brands use recycled content in their production process. If these recycled materials previously contained PFAS (such as food packaging or non-stick paper products), the chemicals can transfer into the final product.
  2. Manufacturing Processes: Some manufacturing processes may inadvertently introduce PFAS into the product. For example, industrial water used during production could be contaminated with PFAS, which may bind to the toilet paper fibers.
  3. Bleaching and Treatments: Chemicals used to bleach or treat the paper for strength and softness could also be contaminated with PFAS, adding yet another route of exposure.

Why is PFAS in Toilet Paper a Concern?

While the direct health risks of using toilet paper containing PFAS are still being studied, the environmental impact is clear. When flushed down the toilet, PFAS-laden toilet paper can enter sewage systems, and ultimately, the broader water supply. These chemicals are then difficult and costly to remove from water during treatment processes, resulting in potential contamination of drinking water.

 

Beyond the environmental risks, there’s a growing concern about PFAS exposure from personal care products. While it’s unclear if the PFAS levels in toilet paper are high enough to pose an immediate health risk to users, their presence in such an essential household product is troubling.

How to Avoid PFAS in Your Toilet Paper

Given the growing awareness of PFAS in everyday products, it’s understandable that consumers would want to avoid these chemicals as much as possible. Here are some tips for choosing safer alternatives:

 

  • Opt for 100% Bamboo or Virgin Pulp: Bamboo and other plant-based materials are less likely to contain PFAS since they don’t rely on recycled content that may be contaminated.
  • Research Brands: Look for brands that are transparent about their manufacturing processes and have tested for chemicals like PFAS. 

Is Cloud Paper | Save Trees PFAS Free?

Our team has lab-tested our toilet paper, paper towels, and facial tissues for organic fluorine, which is a key indicator of PFAs (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). The lab results for our products show that the levels of fluorine are below the limit of detection, meaning there are no detectable PFAs in our products!

 

Photo of Cloud Paper Products

 

The Bottom Line on PFAS

The discovery of PFAS in toilet paper is a stark reminder of how pervasive these "forever chemicals" have become in our everyday lives. While the risks are still being studied, it's clear that consumers should be vigilant about the products they use. Opting for more natural, sustainable alternatives like bamboo toilet paper can help reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals while also contributing to a cleaner, greener future.

 

 

Sources to stay up to date on PFAS:

 

Environmental Working Group (EWG) – EWG has extensive research and articles on PFAS, including their prevalence in everyday items. They also maintain a PFAS database.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) – The EPA provides in-depth information on PFAS, their impact on the environment, and ongoing regulatory efforts.

Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health – This source offers studies and insights into the health impacts of PFAS, including potential risks.

TIME Environmental Health 5 Minute Reads – This source offers information regarding PFAS found in toilet paper.

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