Wet Wipes vs. Toilet Paper: What's Better?

Traditionally, toilet paper has been the go-to solution for wiping our bits after going to the toilet, but did you know there might be a better option?

Both disposable and reusable wet wipes offer better butt cleaning than toilet paper.  But disposable wet wipes are SO bad for the planet.  Reusable wet wipes? Yep, that's right.

Here at Cheeky we've been all about 'Simple Reusables' since we launched our bestselling reusable wipes kit way back in 2008. However we've been using our reusable wipes instead of toilet paper for the last 10 years and we LOVE it.

Reusable wet wipes are better than toilet paper AND disposable wet wipes.  Here's why:

Toilet Paper

Toilet paper remains the most common choice in Australian households. It’s inexpensive, easily accessible in various qualities—from basic single-ply to ultra-soft three-ply—and available in nearly every store.

However, it has setbacks when it comes to cost, hygiene, and environmental impact.

Cost

Did you know that per capita, Aussies get through an astounding 88 rolls of toilet roll each per annum. If you're a family of four, that cost can *really* stack up. It seems like the budget-friendly option, but costs can climb with plush varieties. We estimate that an average family will spend around $400 on loo roll each year and that's not even on fancy quilted toilet paper!

Environment

The impact of producing toilet paper—deforestation, water, and energy use—is substantial. Who gives a crap estimate that 1 MILLION trees are used each day in the production of loo roll. That's an incredible amount of resources used just to wipe our butts!

Hygiene

Think about this. If you got dog poo on your arm, would you wipe it off with dry tissue, or would you wash it clean?

Toilet paper doesn’t always clean thoroughly, often leaving behind traces that wet wiping could clean better. It also can leave behind little shreds of toilet roll in your genitals - yuck!

Plumbing

While designed to disintegrate to prevent clogs, poor quality or excessive use can still block pipes.

Comfort and Effectiveness

It's less irritating than some alternatives, but not as effective for a thorough clean.

"I’d never heard of this company until I discovered that certain toilet paper can give me a rash! Yep you heard me right a rash.

As a sufferer of A-topic eczema and years of suffering, there are times that I have developed sensitivities to certain substances/materials. After days of research and ways of looking on how to reduce my contact with toilet paper (not for every toilet visit I may add) I came across Cheeky Wipes.

I chose Cheeky Wipes as they are an independent company and I really liked the ethos of the companies ethics. So after browsing the website I purchased the intimate wipes or family cloth as they may be referred to.

After using these for a week or so now I have noticed that I’ve not had any rashes. They are very soft, absorbent and have a very cheeky design on them. Washing them is a breeze, they wash beautifully and you don’t have to separate the wash load, it’s just the same as washing your underwear." Micky, Trustpilot

Wet Wipes

Disposable wet wipes provide a more comprehensive clean, often used for everything from changing diapers to adult hygiene.

Cost

Disposable wet wipes cost a lot more than toilet paper, however many people just use them for cleaning up after a poo and use tissue for the rest. They may cost more upfront but might be more cost-effective with more efficient use.

Environment

Even if they don't contain plastics, "flushable" wipes don’t break down easily in our sewage systems, harming the environment. Plant based wipes still require a lot of resources to manufacture, even if they are more 'eco friendly'. Single use, disposable products will ALWAYS be less eco friendly than reusable products, the clue is in the name!

Hygiene

Wet wiping offers a better clean than tissue which is really important, plus there will be no little bits left behind because of the nature of the product.

Comfort and Effectiveness

Wet wipes are softer and provide a better clean, though chemicals can irritate sensitive skin. Products such as water wipes are fragrance free, alcohol free and as chemical free as possible, making them better for those with skin sensitivities or specific health conditions.#

"Quick delivery, no extra waste in packaging. Items are super soft just what I need for lichen sclerosus but great for everyone!!" Trustpilot Review

Plumbing

Labelled flushable wipes don't disintegrate like toilet paper, posing risks to sewer pipes. Sydney water says that 75% of sewer drain blockages are caused by wipes and tells everyone that wipes, even 'flushable' wipes should be binned, not flushed.

An Aussie plumber recently shared this video, demonstrating what happens when you flush 'flushable' wipes in the sewer system. Hint, it's grim!

Tree roots and wet wipes can both cause plumbing problems, and the two can work together to make things worse.

As pipes age, they can become brittle and corroded, and their lining can develop small holes. Tree roots can grow into these holes and spread, making it easier for wet wipes to get caught. The roots can also absorb moisture from the pipe and expand, preventing wastewater from flowing through.

When flushed down the drain, wet wipes can get tangled with other debris and create a wall of wipes that can be difficult to break up. This can cause blockages that can lead to blocked drains and blocked sewer lines.

In addition, if you live in accommodation with a pump for the hot water system, wet wipes can cause serious issues and burn out the pumps.

Tip: If you notice a gurgling noise from your toilet, it can be a cause for concern. Products like “flushable wipes” and feminine hygiene products are known to clog toilets.

Reusable Wipes

The smart and sustainable choice, reusable wipes made from materials like cotton or bamboo are gaining popularity.

Cost

More expensive initially, their reusability offers long-term savings. Cheeky Wipes Australia offers a reusable toilet paper kit which contains 50 wipes, plus everything you need to make switching to reusable wipes EASY. Although there is an upfront cost of $145, that soon pays for itself if you're using a lot of wet wipes.  By our estimation if you're using two packs of wet wipes a week, you'll be spending $60 a month.  So switching to reusable wipes pays for itself in less than 3 months.

The additional laundry costs are insignificant. If washed as part of a full mixed washload, washing 25 wipes every other day equates to just 6 additional loads of washing annually.

Environment

Reusable wet wipes significantly reduce waste and chemical use, making them the most eco friendly wiping option. Even with the impact of washing the wipes, the resources used are so much less for reusable wipes.

Hygiene

Effective and washable, these wipes will leave your bottom clean and fresh. You shouldn't get lumps of poo in your washing machine either as generally your sphincter does a pretty good job of leaving your bottom lump free! Smears of poo will wash out easily in a normal laundry session.

Plumbing

As they aren’t flushed, there’s no risk of sewer blockages or plumbing damage. They're also great if you've living in an unsewered area with a septic tank or alternative waste system.

Comfort and Effectiveness

Soft and efficient, they clean without harsh chemicals. Honestly never felt fresher since I made the switch!

"Have been using Cheeky Wipes instead of toilet paper for many years since I heard your interview on The Jeremy Vine Show ! Excellent 5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Makes you feel so fresh and clean after using them and I just throw them in the each with everything else!" Trustpilot Review

The choice between toilet paper, disposable wet wipes, and reusable wipes depends on your needs and values. At home, reusable wipes can't be beaten on all front, but when out and about, or for guests, toilet paper still has a place.

Bestselling Reusable Wet Wipes Kits:

10 FREE Make up Wipes! When you spend $80 Toilet Roll Alternative Reusable Toilet Wipes Kit with Cotton Terry Wipes £54.99 View Product Trustpilot

10 FREE Make up Wipes! When you spend $80 Family Cloth Reusable Toilet Paper Kit - Flannel Wipes £54.99 View Product Trustpilot

10 FREE Make up Wipes! When you spend $80 Toilet Roll Reusable Cloth Toilet Paper Kit - Grey Bamboo Wipes £54.99 View Product Trustpilot

We hope this has been useful in helping you decide which are the best wet wipes for you, or if you'll stick to toilet paper. If you've got questions, drop us a line, or check out our other guides or blogs which might be of interest: 

• A glossary of reusable wipes terms
• Our guide to going toilet paper free
• The beginners guide to reusable cloth wipes

​About the Author: Helen Rankin founded Cheeky Wipes, the original reusable wipes kit back in 2008 after disposable wipes caused her eczema to flare up. 4 kids later, she went on to develop their range of 'Simple Reusables' to include a toilet paper alternative kit, and reusable period protection.

The Cheeky customer services team pride themselves on providing honest, friendly advice and just LOVE to chat pee, poo and periods all day long, helping people make the switch to reusables! The Company was recognised for their hard work in developing environmentally friendly products with the Queens Award in Enterprise for Sustainable Development in 2021.