Paper & Disposables
Paper goods and single-use items for the kitchen and bathroom.
What we look at
- Ply and sheet count
- Absorbency claims
- Recycled content
- Compostability
In this category
Aluminum Foil
Foil for cooking, storage, and grilling.
Disposable Plates & Cutlery
Single-use plates, cups, and utensils.
Food Storage Bags
Resealable bags for storing and freezing food.
Paper Towels
Kitchen roll towels by sheet size and absorbency.
Toilet Paper
Bath tissue by sheet count, ply, and roll size.
Everything in Paper & Disposables
Paper TowelsBest Recycled Paper Towels
Three 100% recycled paper towels compared on the post-consumer share each brand states, from 80 percent to none given, plus sheets, ply and what's left out.
Aluminum FoilCan You Recycle Aluminum Foil?
Reynolds says its foil is recyclable but few recycling programs take it. Where one does, the foil has to be clean and balled up at least 2 inches across.
Disposable Plates & CutleryWhat "Compostable" on Disposable Plates Actually Means
The FTC's rule on compostable claims, what the BPI certification mark adds, and why a certified plate usually means a commercial facility, not your backyard.
Food Storage BagsBest Freezer Bags for Freezer Burn
Four freezer bags from Hefty and Glad compared on what each page says about its seal, its thickness and freezer burn, with FDA's own definition of the problem.
Toilet PaperWhat "Septic-Safe" Toilet Paper Actually Means
Septic-safe on a toilet paper package is a manufacturer claim that the paper breaks down after flushing. EPA already counts toilet paper as flushable.
Food Storage BagsWhat Makes a Freezer Bag Different From a Storage Bag
FDA says freezer burn is a quality problem caused by air reaching food, not a safety one. What a freezer bag claims that a storage bag doesn't, per the brand.
Toilet PaperWhat the FSC Label on Toilet Paper Actually Means
The FSC tree on a toilet paper pack is one of three labels, and FSC's own site says each one means something different. What the words under the tree tell you.
Paper TowelsWhat "Recycled Content" on Paper Towels Actually Means
The FTC's Green Guides define what a recycled content claim has to mean, and two manufacturers' pages show how the number is stated. How to read the label.
Toilet PaperPaper Goods Calculator
Calculate how much toilet paper and paper towel your household uses. Enter rolls per week and get the rolls per year for each, plus how often to reorder.