Is Bamboo Toxic? Let’s Clear the Air on Bamboo Toilet Paper vs. Bamboo Fabrics

At Eco Cheeks, we often get asked, “is bamboo toxic?”, or “Is bamboo really eco-friendly, or have I heard it’s bad for the environment?” You might’ve come across this debate online or had someone mention that bamboo is made using chemicals. Well, we’re here to clear up this bamboo confusion once and for all!

Spoiler alert: Not all bamboo products are created equal. That soft bamboo shirt you love? It’s made quite differently from the bamboo toilet paper that keeps you comfortable. Let’s break it down and clear the air on some common misconceptions.

Bamboo: A Superhero Plant in Disguise

Before diving into the details, let’s all agree on one thing—bamboo is pretty amazing. It grows incredibly fast, uses very little water, and doesn’t need pesticides. If plants had awards, bamboo would definitely earn a gold star from Mother Nature. So why does bamboo sometimes get a bad rap? Is bamboo toxic? 

In fact, a study published in Frontiers in Plant Science highlights bamboo as one of the fastest-growing plants, with some species growing up to 91 cm per day, depending on conditions . If that’s not eco-friendly, what is?

The confusion stems from the fact that bamboo is used in two main ways: fabric and toilet paper. But the processes involved in making these are worlds apart, like comparing chalk and cheese—or in this case, tissue and tees.

So, is bamboo toxic? Let’s break it down and bust the myths.

Myth #1: Bamboo Toilet Paper and Bamboo Fabrics Are the Same Thing

This is where most people get tangled up. They hear about chemicals used in bamboo fabric production and assume it applies to bamboo toilet paper too. But here’s the thing—making bamboo toilet paper doesn’t follow the same chemical-heavy route as bamboo fabric.

Let’s start with the fabric side of things.

Bamboo Fabric: Not as Squeaky Clean as You Might Think

When bamboo is turned into fabric, it often undergoes a chemical process, particularly when creating viscose or rayon. The Canadian Environmental Protection Act reports that producing bamboo viscose involves harmful chemicals like sodium hydroxide and carbon disulfide, which can have significant environmental and health impact. 

The process breaks down the bamboo into a pulp using these chemicals, which is far from eco-friendly. While the end result—a soft, silky fabric—feels luxurious, it’s often at an environmental cost. This is what people are referring to when they talk about chemically intensive bamboo products.

And the thing is, none of this applies to bamboo toilet paper.

Bamboo Toilet Paper: A Cleaner, Greener Story

When it comes to bamboo toilet paper, it’s a whole different story—one that’s far simpler and gentler on the environment. And that’s exactly how we like it at Eco Cheeks.

Bamboo toilet paper production is a much simpler process, focusing on mechanical methods rather than chemical ones. Studies published by the Australian Centre for international Agricultural Research show that bamboo can be sustainably harvested and processed into toilet paper with minimal environmental impact .

At Eco Cheeks, our bamboo toilet paper is made by mechanically breaking down bamboo stalks into fibres. This process skips the harmful chemicals used in fabric production, making it a clean, green alternative. The bamboo pulp is pressed into soft sheets—no chemical bath involved.

In short, there’s no toxic chemical involved in making bamboo toilet paper. Bamboo toilet paper is 100% biodegradable, recyclable, and far gentler on the planet than tree-based alternatives.

Myth #2: Bamboo Toilet Paper Is Full of Chemicals

Let’s get straight to the point—this one’s completely wrong! One of the best things about bamboo toilet paper is how natural it is. That’s why people love it. Especially Eco Cheeks, which is unbleached, free from fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals.

A 2005 report from Science Direct highlights that bleaching agents in conventional toilet paper can release harmful dioxins into the environment . In contrast, bamboo toilet paper avoids these chemicals, making it a much healthier and safer choice for both you and the environment.

At Eco Cheeks, our bamboo tissue is not only unbleached but also hypoallergenic, making it perfect for sensitive skin. Plus, bamboo’s natural antibacterial properties make it a fantastic choice for your bathroom routine. What’s not to love?

Myth #3: Bamboo Products Are Harmful to the Environment

This myth likely comes from confusion about bamboo fabric production. But once again, it’s important to remember that not all bamboo products are the same.

Bamboo toilet paper is an eco-friendly hero. Here’s why:

• Bamboo is renewable – It grows incredibly fast, so we don’t have to cut down forests to make your toilet paper. An article published by One Tree Planted shows bamboo can grow up to 90cm per day faster than trees used for traditional toilet paper .
• It uses less water – Bamboo thrives on rainwater alone, so it doesn’t drain our precious water resources. According to the World Wildlife Fund, producing one tonne of tree-based toilet paper requires up to 20,000 litres of water. 
• It absorbs more CO2 – Bamboo captures more carbon dioxide than traditional hardwood trees, helping to combat climate change. A study published by Bamboo Goods reveals that bamboo absorbs 35% more carbon per hectare than trees .

When it comes to sustainability, bamboo toilet paper leads the way. Switching to bamboo toilet paper is a small step for your bathroom, but a giant leap for the environment!

The Case for Bamboo Over Tree-Based Toilet Paper

Now that we’ve busted the myths, let’s compare bamboo toilet paper to its tree-based counterpart.

Traditional toilet paper is made from trees, which take far longer to regrow. The logging of these trees contributes to deforestation, which not only harms the environment but also displaces wildlife. Deforestation for toilet paper production is a real concern, as highlighted by the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC), which states that over 27,000 trees are cut down every day just to meet global toilet paper demand .

Tree-based toilet paper production also uses loads of water. Add in the bleaching process (which involves chemicals like chlorine), and you’ve got a product that’s much harsher on the environment than bamboo.

By choosing bamboo toilet paper, you’re helping to reduce deforestation, conserve water, and support more sustainable practices. Plus, you still get the strength and softness you need. It’s a win-win for you and the Earth!

A Final Word on Bamboo Myths

To wrap things up, bamboo toilet paper and bamboo fabric may come from the same plant, but they take very different paths to get to your home. While bamboo fabric production can be chemically intensive, bamboo toilet paper is clean, green, and chemical-free.

At Eco Cheeks, we believe in transparency and eco-conscious choices. We’re proud to offer a soft, sustainable alternative that’s kind to the planet. So, next time you hear someone say, “I heard bamboo’s bad for the environment,” or ask, “is bamboo toxic?”, feel free to set the record straight!

Ready to Make the Switch?

If you’re looking to make a positive change in your bathroom routine, give bamboo toilet paper a go! Not only will your bum thank you, but so will the planet. Check out our range of bamboo tissue paper products at Eco Cheeks and start wiping with a clear conscience.

And there you have it—the real facts on bamboo toilet paper vs. bamboo fabrics. No myths, no chemicals—just a greener, kinder choice for your bathroom.