Can Toilet Paper Go In Compost? The Answer May Surprise You

The question of “can toilet paper go in compost” is a common one among eco-conscious individuals. Composting is an excellent way to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich soil for your garden. However, not all materials can be composted, and it’s essential to know what can and cannot be composted to ensure the success of your compost pile.

The Truth About Toilet Paper and Composting

The answer to the question of whether toilet paper can go in compost is both yes and no. The type of toilet paper you use determines its compostability.

Compostable Toilet Paper

• Made from 100% biodegradable materials, such as bamboo, hemp, or recycled paper
• Free from dyes, inks, and fragrances
• Breaks down quickly in a compost pile
• Can be added to both backyard and commercial composting systems

Non-Compostable Toilet Paper

• Contains synthetic materials, such as plastic or rayon
• Treated with dyes, inks, or fragrances
• Does not break down easily in a compost pile
• Can contaminate your compost and harm the environment

How to Identify Compostable Toilet Paper

Look for the following certifications on the toilet paper packaging:

• Biodegradable Products Institute (BPI)
• Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)
• Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI)

These certifications indicate that the toilet paper is made from sustainable sources and is safe for composting.

Benefits of Composting Toilet Paper

• Reduces waste: Toilet paper accounts for a significant portion of household waste. Composting it diverts it from landfills.
• Creates nutrient-rich soil: Composted toilet paper adds organic matter and nutrients to the soil, improving its fertility.
• Lowers carbon footprint: Composting reduces methane emissions from landfills, which contributes to climate change.

How to Compost Toilet Paper

1. Choose compostable toilet paper: Ensure you’re using toilet paper certified as compostable.
2. Tear or shred the paper: This helps it break down faster in the compost pile.
3. Keep it balanced: Mix toilet paper with other organic materials, such as kitchen scraps, yard waste, and brown materials (e.g., leaves, cardboard).
4. Add water: Compost piles need moisture to thrive. Add water as needed to keep the pile damp but not soggy.
5. Turn the pile regularly: Turning the pile aerates it and helps the materials decompose faster.

Composting Toilet Paper in Different Systems

• Backyard composting: Add compostable toilet paper to a backyard compost bin or pile.
• Vermicomposting: Use red wiggler worms to compost toilet paper in a worm bin.
• Commercial composting: Check with your local composting facility to see if they accept compostable toilet paper.

Troubleshooting Composting Toilet Paper

• Not breaking down: Ensure you’re using compostable toilet paper and that the pile is balanced and has enough moisture.
• Bad odor: Add more brown materials (e.g., leaves, cardboard) to balance the pile and reduce odors.
• Pests: Keep the compost pile covered and avoid adding meat or dairy products to deter pests.

Alternatives to Composting Toilet Paper

If you can’t compost toilet paper in your area, consider these alternatives:

• Flushing it down the toilet: Most modern toilets are designed to flush toilet paper effectively.
• Landfilling it: While not ideal, landfilling toilet paper is still better than sending it to a landfill.
• Using biodegradable wipes: Biodegradable wipes are designed to break down in sewage systems and are a convenient alternative to toilet paper.

Wrap-Up

Whether or not toilet paper can go in compost depends on its composition. Compostable toilet paper can be added to compost piles to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich soil. However, non-compostable toilet paper should be disposed of properly to avoid contaminating compost and harming the environment. By making informed choices about the materials you use, you can contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyle.

Answers to Your Questions

Q: How long does toilet paper take to compost?
A: Composting toilet paper typically takes 2-3 months to break down completely.

Q: Can I add used toilet paper to my compost pile?
A: No. Used toilet paper contains bodily waste and should not be composted.

Q: What are some other organic materials that can be added to a compost pile?
A: Kitchen scraps, yard waste, leaves, cardboard, and coffee grounds.

Q: How often should I turn my compost pile?
A: Turn your compost pile every 3-5 days to aerate it and speed up decomposition.

Q: What is the ideal moisture level for a compost pile?
A: The compost pile should be damp but not soggy. You should be able to squeeze a handful of compost and have a few drops of liquid come out.