Toilet paper is a major source of toxic chemicals, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), formaldehyde, polyethylene glycol, and undisclosed fragrances. Bleaching or using dyes made from petroleum can irritate body parts, especially women's vulvas.0 BPA has been detected in recycled toilet paper, which is a toxic chemical that is used as a heat-resistant coating on thermal printed materials.2 PEGs aren't as much of a problem in dry toilet paper, but they can be contaminated with toxins from manufacturing, including 1,4-dioxane (a carcinogen) and ethylene oxide (linked to cancer, infertility, and skin irritation). The most prevalent PFAS detected in toilet paper and sewage sludge is 6:2 diPAP, which fragments into smaller compounds that are very persistent in the environment and harmful to human health.
