What it is
Cellulose fibre reclaimed from paper waste streams — mail, office paper, cardboard — and de-inked, pulped, and re-formed into tissue.
Post-consumer recycled (PCR) is the strongest version — fibre that has already been used by a consumer. Pre-consumer recycled (mill scrap) is a much weaker version.
The recycled-fibre content and PCR percentage are both listed on the box of any brand worth buying.
Why it matters
Recycled fibre is the only tissue raw material that removes existing paper from landfill while producing new product.
Energy and water intensity per ton is meaningfully lower than either virgin softwood pulp or bamboo pulp.
The historical concern about BPA in thermal-receipt paper contamination has been largely resolved by modern de-inking and washing steps, but a brand that publishes third-party testing on the finished sheet meaningfully outperforms one that does not.
Common uses
- Recycled toilet paper (post-consumer)
- Paper towels and napkins
- Facial tissue
Safety considerations
- Modern PCR tissue tests below detection for BPA on the finished sheet at reputable brands.
- Look for PCF (processed chlorine free) or ECF bleaching. Elemental chlorine gas on recycled fibre is the version to avoid.
- Fragrance, dyes, and lotions are optional additions the brand chose to include — none are required for a functional sheet.
Where you'll encounter this
- Bathroom — 100% post-consumer recycled toilet paper
- Kitchen — recycled paper towels and napkins
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Frequently asked questions
Is recycled toilet paper safe?
Yes. Modern post-consumer recycled tissue is de-inked, washed, and re-bleached under processes that reduce residual chemistry well below detection limits at reputable brands. The version worth buying will publish its recycled content, bleaching method, and, ideally, third-party testing.
Is recycled paper rougher than virgin?
Slightly. Recycled fibre is shorter than virgin fibre, which gives it a different hand feel. Two-ply recycled sheets from brands like Seventh Generation feel closer to a standard supermarket tissue than to a plush premium brand.
What about BPA in recycled paper?
The historical concern comes from thermal-receipt paper entering the recycling stream. Modern de-inking and washing steps at reputable mills reduce BPA on the finished sheet below detection. Brands that publish third-party testing on this specific question outperform those that stay silent.
Editorial references
- EPA — Paper and Paperboard Recycling factsheet
- NRDC — The Issue With Tissue scorecard
Last updated 2026-07-20.