Bamboo, Recycled or Premium? Choosing the Best Toilet Paper for Your Office

Selecting the right toilet paper for your office may seem trivial — but it’s a decision that affects cost, staff satisfaction, sustainability credentials and your brand’s impression. In this post we’ll explore three major types of office-toilet-paper: bamboo, recycled and premium (virgin pulp). We’ll help you understand the strengths, weaknesses and how to match them to your business needs in New Zealand.

Why the Type of Toilet Paper Matters in a Commercial Setting

In an office, washroom supplies aren’t just a behind-the-scenes thought. The toilet paper you supply:

• influences user comfort (staff, visitors, clients)

• impacts maintenance and plumbing (some papers break down better)

• contributes to your sustainability and procurement policy

• affects cost per use over time (not just cost per roll)

Therefore, choosing the right type is both practical and strategic.

If you're wondering whether employees really notice the toilet paper you stock, we explore that exact question in our related article: Do Employees Notice What Toilet Paper You Use? Why It Matters for Kiwi Workplaces. It dives into staff expectations, hygiene perceptions, and how something as simple as toilet paper can impact morale and your brand image.

What Are the Options?

Bamboo Toilet Paper

Bamboo toilet paper is made from fast-growing bamboo grass rather than traditional tree-based pulp. Bamboo grows quickly, often with minimal pesticides and water, making it a strong renewable resource.

Benefits: excellent softness, strength and a strong sustainability story.
Challenges: supply chains (often imported), higher cost per roll, and you’ll want to check genuine composition and certification (e.g., FSC).

Recycled Toilet Paper

Recycled toilet paper uses post-consumer (or post-industrial) fibre rather than virgin pulp from trees. This reduces waste and supports circular economy goals.

Advantages: strong sustainability message, often lower cost than premium virgin pulp.
Considerations: softness and strength may vary; some recycled papers undergo bleaching or other chemical processes.

Premium (Virgin Pulp) Toilet Paper

Premium toilet paper is made from high-grade virgin wood pulp or luxury blends. These offer the “hotel feel” finish.

Pros: superior comfort and brand impression.
Cons: higher cost, greater environmental impact if not sustainably sourced.

How to Choose for Your Office

1. Match to Your Usage and Traffic

High-traffic office toilets will demand robust paper that breaks down well and doesn’t require excessive replacements.

2. Consider Cost per Use, Not Just Per Roll

Calculate cost per sheet or use. Bamboo often requires fewer sheets due to strength, potentially reducing replacement frequency.

3. Sustainability and Brand Values

Bamboo excels in renewability; recycled excels in waste diversion. Choose what best aligns with your sustainability goals.

4. Plumbing and Compatibility

Ensure your chosen toilet paper works with your dispensers and plumbing, especially in older buildings.

5. User Comfort and Perception

Softness matters for staff and client satisfaction. Premium or bamboo usually offers higher comfort levels.

6. Certifications and Claims Matter

Check for FSC, ISO, or recycled content certifications to ensure genuine eco claims.

Pros & Cons Table

Which One Should Your Office Choose?

• High traffic, budget-conscious: Go with quality recycled toilet paper.

• Client-facing, premium feel required: Consider bamboo or premium paper.

• Eco-conscious brand: Choose bamboo or certified recycled paper.

• Older plumbing or specific dispenser types: Select product verified for your systems.

Implementation Tips for Commercial Purchasing

• Audit current usage and feedback

• Confirm dispenser compatibility

• Trial options and get staff feedback

• Train staff on restocking and monitoring

• Communicate sustainability efforts where relevant

FAQ

Q: Does bamboo toilet paper really cost more?
Yes, but may last longer due to higher strength.

Q: Is recycled toilet paper good enough for offices?
Yes, particularly higher-grade commercial options.

Q: Will premium paper improve impression?
Yes, especially in visitor and client-facing facilities.

Q: How can I verify eco-claims?
Look for certifications like FSC or ISO.

Q: What’s best for NZ workplaces?
Depends on your goals – bamboo for sustainability, recycled for cost-efficiency, premium for comfort.

Conclusion

Choosing the right toilet paper for your office is about more than hygiene – it reflects your brand, your care for staff, and your environmental responsibility. Take the time to evaluate your needs and align your choice with your values.

Explore our full range of eco-friendly and commercial toilet paper options at Insinc.