7 Best Bamboo Toilet Paper Brands For Bam-Boo-tiful Bum Wipes

We’ve scoured the bamboo jungle (figuratively, of course) and wiped with (yep we’ve done a lot of physical testing) a number of rolls to find our favorite brands delivering a premium bathroom experience all the while reducing our environmental impact.

And these bamboo TP brands don’t just use low-impact materials but also prioritize ethical sourcing and low- or no-impact dyes.

Note: We now offer brand ratings that assess companies against 22 sustainability-related criteria, such as circularity, climate impact, and chemical use. Look out for the rated brands on the list below that have given us extra comfort when it comes to their eco credentials. You can find other rated brands in our directory.

Related Guides: What Are Forever Chemicals (PFAS)?, Non-toxic Toilet Paper

Generally bamboo toilet paper is considered a more sustainable alternative compared to traditional paper made from virgin wood pulp. However, it should be harvested from sustainably managed forests and must not contribute to deforestation. The most common certification is Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).

Additionally, bamboo offers:

• Rapid growth: Bamboo is one of the fastest-growing plants on Earth, with some species able to grow up to 35 inches in one day. The whole plant also doesn’t need to be killed to harvest it. This means it can be harvested more frequently with little regrowth time.
• Low environmental impact: Bamboo requires less water and fewer pesticides and fertilizers compared to many tree species. Its cultivation is often considered more environmentally friendly.
• Renewable resource: Bamboo is a renewable resource because it regrows from its root system after harvesting and doesn’t require replanting.
• Carbon sequestration: Bamboo can sequester more carbon dioxide from the atmosphere than other tree species in similar regions.
• Soil health: Bamboo can help improve soil health by preventing erosion and adding nutrients back into the soil.

One of the performance advantages of bamboo toilet paper is that it often has longer fibers, which can make it softer and more absorbent. Furthermore, tree-free toilet paper is often praised for its strength and durability. It doesn’t easily disintegrate when wet, which can be a common issue with some traditional toilet paper.

When choosing the top bamboo toilet paper brands, we focused on more than just softness and strength. Each brand was reviewed against environmental impact, material sourcing, certifications, and social responsibility.

Materials & Sourcing

Bamboo toilet paper should be made from sustainably grown bamboo (ideally organic and harvested without destroying the plant). We prioritized brands using FSC-certified bamboo, ensuring responsible forestry and biodiversity protection.

Supply Chain & Labor Practices

We looked for brands that support smallholder bamboo farmers or cooperatives and that uphold fair labor practices throughout production. Much of the best bamboo TP is produced in facilities audited under frameworks like BSCI (Business Social Compliance Initiative) or SEDEX, which verify worker safety, fair pay, and ethical manufacturing.

Carbon & Packaging Practices

The best brands also think beyond the roll. We favored companies actively reducing or offsetting carbon emissions, minimizing water use, and avoiding virgin plastics. All packaging used by our featured brands is plastic-free, typically made from recycled paper, cardboard, or compostable materials.

Community & Giving Back

Wiping guilt-free feels even better when brands give back. We prioritized companies that donate profits or products to improve sanitation access, fund tree planting, or support global clean water and hygiene initiatives.

We also included B Corp brands that are certified as balancing purpose and profit while maintaining high standards of transparency and accountability.

Is bamboo toilet paper septic safe?

Yes, most bamboo toilet paper is septic-safe and breaks down quickly in water. Because bamboo fibers are naturally long and strong yet biodegradable, they dissolve more easily than many recycled or ultra-soft tree-based rolls. Just make sure to choose brands that specify “septic safe” or “ready biodegradable” on their packaging (like Betterway and Reel, which we tested).

What is the best bamboo toilet paper?

The best bamboo toilet paper balances softness, strength, and sustainability. We rate Who Gives A Crap and Betterway among the top performers for their certified bamboo sourcing, comfort, and plastic-free packaging. Each brand has slightly different perks (from softness to charitable impact) so the “best” really depends on your personal priorities.

Is bamboo toilet paper sustainable?

Yes, when it’s FSC-certified, responsibly manufactured and uses a lower toxin approach to making the rolls white (unbleached is even better). Bamboo grows rapidly, requires minimal water and pesticides, and regenerates without replanting, all of which make it a renewable resource. The key is to buy from brands using ethically sourced bamboo and avoiding chlorine bleach or plastic packaging.

Why is bamboo toilet paper better than traditional toilet paper?

Traditional toilet paper often relies on virgin tree pulp, contributing to deforestation and higher carbon emissions. Bamboo toilet paper offers a far lower impact alternative: it’s tree-free, regenerates quickly, and can sequester more carbon per hectare than most trees. It’s also naturally hypoallergenic, making it better for both your skin and the planet.

Is bamboo toilet paper soft?

Surprisingly, yes! While bamboo toilet paper doesn’t feel exactly like ultra-soft supermarket brands that use chemical softeners, it’s still smooth, durable, and comfortable. Some brands (like Who Gives A Crap and Betterway) produce notably soft rolls without synthetic coatings, proving you can have both comfort and better sustainability performance.

Does bamboo toilet paper contain chemicals or bleach?

Many leading brands are unbleached or whitened using elemental chlorine-free (ECF) processes, which are much safer than traditional bleaching. Look for options labeled BPA-free, dye-free, and fragrance-free if you’re aiming for non-toxic or hypoallergenic rolls.

Final Thoughts On Bamboo Toilet Paper

As we wrap up this exploration of eco-friendly bamboo toilet paper, it’s clear that this alternative is more than just a trend. It’s a responsible choice that aligns with our growing awareness of the importance of sustainable living. While it may seem like a small change, collectively, these choices can have a significant impact on our planet’s health.

So, the next time you reach for a roll of toilet paper, consider making the switch to bamboo (or other eco-friendly, non-toxic, or reusable toilet paper alternatives).

Don’t forget to spread the word about the wonders of tree-free toilet paper by sharing this list with your fellow wipers!

Editor’s note: This article was originally published in September 2023 and updated in October 2025 to include new images, refreshed copy, and an expanded FAQ section.