Have you ever considered the impact your everyday toilet paper has on the planet and its people? With millions of trees felled daily for conventional toilet paper, it’s clear that our bathroom habits need a serious rethink. Enter Who Gives A Crap, a brand that promises a more sustainable and socially conscious approach to this essential product. This comprehensive guide delves into everything you need to know about Who Gives A Crap toilet paper, helping you decide if it’s the right choice for your home and values.

What is Who Gives A Crap Toilet Paper? An Overview
Who Gives A Crap (WGAC) is an Australian-founded company launched in 2012 with a mission to make sustainable toilet paper and use its profits to help solve the global sanitation crisis. They famously donate 50% of their profits to build toilets and improve sanitation in developing countries, addressing a critical issue where billions lack access to proper facilities. Their commitment extends beyond charity, focusing on environmentally friendly production from start to finish.
The brand offers two main types of toilet paper: their 100% Recycled Toilet Paper and their Premium 100% Bamboo Toilet Paper. Both options aim to provide a more responsible alternative to traditional virgin tree pulp toilet paper, which contributes significantly to deforestation. Each roll is individually wrapped in colorful paper, which is also recyclable, compostable, or reusable, ensuring a plastic-free experience from purchase to disposal.
Key Criteria for Choosing Toilet Paper: How Does WGAC Stack Up?
Selecting the right toilet paper involves more than just grabbing the cheapest pack. Factors like material, feel, durability, roll size, and price all play a crucial role. Let’s examine how Who Gives A Crap performs across these essential criteria.
Material & Environmental Impact
Who Gives A Crap stands out for its commitment to using sustainable materials. Their products are made from either 100% recycled fibers (sourced from post-consumer waste like office paper) or FSC certified bamboo, deliberately avoiding virgin trees. This approach significantly reduces carbon emissions and prevents deforestation, a major environmental win. Compared to traditional toilet paper production, recycled paper alone can cut carbon emissions by two-thirds.
The company’s dedication to sustainability extends to its packaging and shipping. All products come in plastic-free packaging, with individual rolls wrapped in paper and shipped in large cardboard boxes. They also boast carbon-neutral shipping, achieved by offsetting their transportation emissions, and are a certified B-Corporation, meeting high standards of social and environmental performance. Furthermore, their toilet paper is free from elemental chlorine bleaching, dyes, inks, and scents, using plant-based glues for a cleaner product.
Softness & Absorbency
The quest for soft toilet paper is universal, and Who Gives A Crap addresses this with varying levels of plushness across its range. Their Premium 100% Bamboo Toilet Paper is generally praised for being soft, sturdy, and reliable. While it might not match the ultra-plush feel of some virgin tree pulp brands, many reviewers note it’s among the softest eco-friendly options available, featuring a gentle dimpled texture designed to enhance both softness and absorbency.
The 100% Recycled Toilet Paper, by nature of its material, can sometimes be perceived as less soft or slightly coarser than the bamboo variant or traditional premium brands. However, it still performs effectively, with many users finding it perfectly adequate for daily use. It’s designed to be effective at wiping and holds up well even when slightly wet, without shedding.
Strength & Durability
Nobody wants toilet paper that tears easily or leaves lint behind. Who Gives A Crap products are designed with durability in mind. The Premium 100% Bamboo Toilet Paper is 3-ply, contributing to its superior strength and robust feel. It’s noted for its sturdiness and resistance to shredding, providing a confident wipe.
The 100% Recycled Toilet Paper is typically 2-ply. While some might find it a bit flimsier than the bamboo version, it is still built to be strong enough for its purpose and is effective at cleaning without falling apart. The choice between the two often comes down to personal preference for ply and material feel.
Roll Size & Quantity
One common misconception about Who Gives A Crap is its perceived higher price point. However, the brand uses a “double-length” roll system, meaning their rolls contain significantly more sheets than many standard supermarket brands. For instance, their recycled rolls have approximately 385 sheets, and bamboo rolls around 370 sheets, compared to typical rolls with fewer than 300 sheets. This translates to fewer roll changes and, often, a more cost-effective purchase per sheet in the long run.
WGAC typically sells its toilet paper in bulk boxes of 24 or 48 rolls, which not only reduces packaging and shipping frequency but also often results in a lower cost per roll. This bulk buying model is ideal for families or those who prefer to stock up, ensuring you won’t run out quickly.
Price & Value
At first glance, Who Gives A Crap toilet paper might seem more expensive than conventional options. For example, a 48-roll box of bamboo toilet paper costs around $68, and recycled paper costs about $62. However, when you factor in the double-length rolls and compare the cost per sheet, WGAC often proves to be on par with, or even more affordable than, many supermarket brands.
The company also offers subscription services, which can provide additional discounts and the convenience of automatic, customizable deliveries. This ensures you always have toilet paper when you need it, often at a better price point. The overall value proposition is enhanced by the significant environmental and social benefits that come with every purchase.
Who Gives A Crap’s Impact: Beyond the Roll
Beyond providing eco-friendly toilet paper, Who Gives A Crap is deeply committed to its social mission. Since its inception, the company has donated 50% of its profits to help improve global sanitation. This commitment has led to millions of dollars being donated to various charity partners worldwide who work on water, hygiene, and sanitation projects.
> “Every roll you use helps build a toilet for someone in need. It’s a simple way to make a big difference with an everyday product.” – Simon Griffiths, Co-founder, Who Gives A Crap
These donations fund initiatives such as constructing new toilets, improving access to clean water, and educating communities on hygiene practices, directly impacting the health and dignity of billions of people who lack basic sanitation facilities. Choosing Who Gives A Crap means your purchase has a direct, tangible positive impact on global well-being.
Comparing Who Gives A Crap: Bamboo vs. Recycled
Choosing between Who Gives A Crap’s bamboo and recycled options depends on your specific priorities. Both are excellent sustainable choices, but they offer slightly different experiences.
| Feature | 100% Recycled Toilet Paper | Premium 100% Bamboo Toilet Paper |
|---|---|---|
| Material | 100% post-consumer recycled paper | 100% sustainably sourced bamboo |
| Ply | 2-ply | 3-ply |
| Softness | Good, generally considered effective, but can be coarser than bamboo. | Softer, more luxurious feel; often compared favorably to other eco-friendly brands. |
| Strength | Durable and resistant to tearing. | Very strong, highly durable, less prone to shredding. |
| Environmental Nuances | Utilizes existing waste, lower carbon footprint. | Rapidly renewable resource, but still involves harvesting. |
| Price (per 48 rolls) | Approx. $62 | Approx. $68 |
If your primary goal is to minimize your carbon footprint by reusing existing materials, the 100% Recycled Toilet Paper is an outstanding choice. If you prioritize a softer, more premium feel while still being highly sustainable, the Premium 100% Bamboo Toilet Paper is likely to be your preference.
Is Who Gives A Crap Right for You? Factors to Consider
Deciding to switch to an eco-friendly brand like Who Gives A Crap involves weighing several personal factors.
- Prioritizing Sustainability: If reducing your environmental impact (deforestation, plastic waste, carbon emissions) and supporting ethical business practices (B-Corp, social donations) are high on your list, WGAC is an excellent fit.
- Softness Preference: If you prefer a very soft, plush toilet paper similar to premium virgin brands, the bamboo option will come closer to meeting that expectation than the recycled one. Those accustomed to basic toilet paper will likely find both options satisfactory.
- Budget: While the upfront cost is higher, the cost-per-sheet value often makes WGAC competitive. Consider your long-term budget and how often you purchase toilet paper. The bulk purchasing and subscription discounts can offer significant savings over time.
- Convenience: The subscription model offers unparalleled convenience, delivering toilet paper directly to your door without the hassle of supermarket runs.
How to Purchase Who Gives A Crap Toilet Paper
Who Gives A Crap primarily operates as an online direct-to-consumer brand, making it incredibly convenient to get your eco-friendly toilet paper delivered right to your doorstep. You can purchase their products directly from their website.
They offer flexible subscription options, allowing you to choose the frequency of your deliveries (e.g., every 10, 12, or 14 weeks) based on your household’s usage. This ensures you never run out and often provides the best value through subscription discounts. Individual rolls are then packed in a sturdy, unbleached cardboard box, minimizing plastic waste and maximizing recyclability.
Important Considerations When Using and Storing Your Eco-Friendly TP
Proper usage and storage ensure you get the most out of any toilet paper, including Who Gives A Crap’s sustainable options.
- Usage: While both recycled and bamboo options are strong, remember that they are designed to break down effectively in septic systems. Using a bidet in conjunction with toilet paper can further reduce consumption and enhance hygiene.
- Storage: Store your Who Gives A Crap rolls in a dry, cool place away from moisture. The individual paper wrapping helps protect the rolls from humidity and dust, maintaining their hygiene and integrity.
- Disposal: The individual paper wrappers are designed to be reused (for gift wrapping or crafts), recycled, or composted, aligning with the brand’s zero-waste ethos. The toilet paper itself is biodegradable and safe for most plumbing systems.
Conclusion
Who Gives A Crap offers a compelling package for consumers seeking to make a more ethical and sustainable choice in their daily lives. By opting for their 100% recycled or bamboo toilet paper, you’re not just choosing a product; you’re supporting a company that actively combats deforestation, eliminates plastic waste, and dedicates half its profits to improving global sanitation. While the initial cost may seem higher, the long-lasting, double-length rolls and the profound social and environmental benefits offer true value.
Is it time to re-evaluate your toilet paper choices and join the movement towards a cleaner, more equitable world?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Who Gives A Crap toilet paper septic safe?
Yes, Who Gives A Crap toilet paper is designed to be septic-safe. Both the recycled and bamboo options are made to break down effectively, minimizing any risk to your plumbing or septic system.
How does Who Gives A Crap compare in softness to major brands like Charmin?
Who Gives A Crap’s Premium 100% Bamboo Toilet Paper is generally considered soft and gentle, often comparable to many standard soft toilet papers. However, some premium virgin pulp brands like Charmin Ultra might feel slightly plusher due to their material composition, but they come with a higher environmental cost.
Can I buy Who Gives A Crap in stores?
Who Gives A Crap primarily sells its products directly through its website, utilizing a subscription model for convenience and efficiency. This allows them to maintain their sustainable shipping practices and pass on value to customers, making it less common to find them in traditional retail stores.
Why are the rolls individually wrapped?
The individual paper wrapping serves multiple purposes: it protects each roll from moisture and dust, ensuring hygiene, and allows for plastic-free packaging. The wrappers are also designed to be reusable, recyclable, or compostable, aligning with the brand’s waste-reduction goals.