Best Toilet Paper: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

After countless hours of testing, tearing, and, well, wiping, we’ve come to a clear conclusion in our search for the best toilet paper. While many brands offer a decent experience, one stands out for its exceptional blend of cloud-like softness and reliable performance. We’re crowning the Charmin Ultra Soft 24 Family Mega Rolls as our top pick. Throughout our hands-on evaluation, it consistently delivered a luxurious, cushiony feel without sacrificing absorbency or strength. This wasn’t just our finding; user after user echoed our sentiment, praising its quality and comfort, making it the undeniable winner for most households.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Toilet Paper

#1 Charmin Ultra Soft 24 Family Mega Rolls – Ideal for: Unparalleled Softness and Comfort

From the moment we unboxed the Charmin Ultra Soft 24 Family Mega Rolls, it was clear this was a premium product. The “Cushiony Touch” isn’t just marketing jargon; each 2-ply sheet feels remarkably plush and gentle, providing a level of comfort that other brands struggle to match. During our tests, we found its absorbency to be top-tier, living up to the claim that you can use less. This means that while it might seem like a premium purchase, the longevity of each roll offers excellent value. A sentiment echoed by numerous users who commented on how long a single pack lasts them. We were also impressed with the thoughtful details, like the new Smooth Tear technology with wavy perforations. This small innovation makes a noticeable difference, preventing frustrating rips and ensuring a clean tear every time. Many users specifically called out their love for the scalloped edges, noting how such a small design choice elevates an everyday product into something a little more special. It’s this combination of luxurious feel, high performance, and user-appreciated details that firmly places it as our top recommendation.

#2 Cottonelle Ultra ComfortCare 24 Family Mega Rolls Toilet Paper – Perfect for: A Balanced, Lint-Free Clean

The Cottonelle Ultra ComfortCare 24 Family Mega Rolls Toilet Paper immediately struck us as a fantastic all-around performer. It finds the sweet spot between the pillowy softness of some brands and the rugged strength of others. The standout feature is its Cushiony CleaningRipples Texture. We found this texture to be genuinely effective, providing a confident clean without feeling harsh. One of the biggest advantages we discovered, which was confirmed by countless users, is that it doesn’t leave behind the dreaded “lint” or fluff that can plague ultra-soft varieties. This makes for a much cleaner experience, both personally and for the bathroom itself. While it may not be quite as cloud-like as our top pick, it’s still very soft and impressively strong. In our absorbency tests, it performed admirably, holding its own against other premium 2-ply options. We appreciate that it’s made from 100% plant-based fibers and is septic-safe, offering peace of mind alongside performance. It’s a reliable, high-quality choice for those who prioritize a thorough, residue-free clean without compromising too much on comfort.

#3 Charmin Ultra Strong 24 Family Mega Rolls – Suits: Those Who Prioritize Strength and Durability

For those who believe strength is the most important quality in toilet paper, the Charmin Ultra Strong 24 Family Mega Rolls is the undisputed champion. This isn’t your average 2-ply; the diamond weave texture feels substantial and is designed to clean effectively without tearing or pilling. We put its “4X stronger when wet” claim to the test and were thoroughly impressed. The paper holds its integrity remarkably well, which means you can use less product with more confidence. This durability is a key point for many users, particularly those who have had frustrating experiences with softer, more delicate tissues that fall apart. One user perfectly described it as “just right,” noting that it avoids the residue left behind by its ultra-soft counterpart. While it’s called “Ultra Strong,” we found it to be surprisingly soft to the touch, striking a great balance that doesn’t force you to choose between comfort and performance. It’s an excellent, reliable option for anyone, but especially for households that value a robust, washcloth-like clean and want to avoid any possibility of breakthrough.

#4 Cottonelle Ultra Comfort Toilet Paper 24 Family Mega Rolls – Ideal for: A Thick and Absorbent Experience

The latest iteration of Cottonelle Ultra Comfort Toilet Paper 24 Family Mega Rolls continues to impress with its focus on a thick, plush, and highly absorbent experience. In our testing, this 2-ply tissue felt noticeably dense and substantial, confirming the brand’s claim of being 3x thicker than leading value brands. The soft CleaningRipples texture works well to provide a clean and comfortable feeling without being abrasive. We found it to be very durable, holding up well during use and minimizing the need to use excessive amounts, which speaks to its overall value. Many users highlighted this durability and softness as the key reasons they stick with the brand. It’s an excellent product that performs reliably across the board. However, a consistent point of feedback we also observed, and one that many users have pointed out, is the issue of “shrinkflation” in the roll’s width. The rolls are noticeably narrower than they used to be, which can look odd in standard holders and feels like a slight reduction in value, even if the paper quality itself remains high.

#5 Scott Professional 80 Rolls Bulk Toilet Paper – Perfect for: Bulk Buying and Septic System Safety

The Scott Professional 80 Rolls Bulk Toilet Paper is all about practicality and value. This isn’t the paper you buy for a spa-like experience; it’s the one you buy to be smart, prepared, and confident in your plumbing. As a long-time trusted brand for septic systems, we found this 2-ply recycled fiber paper to be a no-nonsense workhorse. It dissolves well, which is a critical feature for anyone with sensitive septic or older pipes. Our experience was confirmed by several users who have relied on Scott for decades for this very reason. The bulk 80-roll case, with each roll individually wrapped for hygiene, is incredibly convenient and economical for large families or anyone who simply wants to stock up and not worry about running out. While we and many users noted that it is significantly thinner and less soft than premium consumer brands like Charmin or Cottonelle, that’s part of its design. It’s a trade-off: you sacrifice plushness for clog-free peace of mind and incredible value per sheet. It’s an excellent, sensible choice for the budget-conscious and septic-system owners.

#6 AmazonCommercial 80 Rolls Ultra Plus Toilet Paper – Suits: High-Traffic Homes and Small Businesses

The AmazonCommercial 80 Rolls Ultra Plus Toilet Paper presents a compelling case for those seeking a balance between bulk value and acceptable quality. Designed for commercial use, we found it translates surprisingly well to a home environment, especially for large families. It’s a solid 2-ply tissue that, while not exceptionally plush, is a definite step up from the thin, scratchy paper found in many public restrooms. We found its softness and thickness to be satisfactory, comparing favorably with other budget-friendly bulk options. Many users agree, finding it to be a fantastic deal that avoids the hassle of frequent store trips. The 400 sheets per roll and 80-roll case mean this box will last a very long time. However, we did encounter an issue that some users have also flagged: quality control can be inconsistent. In our testing, we noticed a bit more “paper dust” than with other brands, and some users have reported more serious issues like shredded or even soiled rolls in their boxes. Despite this, for the price-per-sheet, it remains a strong contender for anyone prioritizing quantity and utility.

#7 Georgia-Pacific 80-Roll Bulk Case 2-Ply Toilet Paper – Ideal for: A Familiar Feel with Bulk Convenience

For fans of the classic Angel Soft feel, the Georgia-Pacific 80-Roll Bulk Case 2-Ply Toilet Paper is a fantastic way to stock up. This “Professional Series” product aims to bring that recognizable at-home comfort to a bulk format, and we feel it succeeds. The paper has a pleasant softness and is strong enough for everyday use without being overly thick, which is good news for your plumbing. It strikes a great middle ground that many people appreciate, being neither scratchy nor so plush that it disintegrates. We found it to be a reliable and consistent performer. However, the most significant issue, and one we can’t ignore because it was raised by many long-time purchasers, is shrinkflation. We compared a new roll to an older one and can confirm that the width of the roll has been noticeably reduced. While the quality of the paper remains good, the narrower sheet is a definite drawback and makes the product feel less substantial. It’s still a good value, especially in a large case, but this change is a disappointment for loyal customers who valued the previously wider roll.

#8 Scott Professional Standard Bulk Toilet Paper – Perfect for: Practicality and Budget-Friendliness

The Scott Professional Standard Bulk Toilet Paper (model 04460) is the epitome of a no-frills, high-value bathroom essential. This is a product built for performance and economy, not luxury. During our evaluation, we found it to be a solid, functional 2-ply paper that gets the job done without fuss. It’s reasonably strong and absorbent for its thickness. Its greatest strength, as noted by many users, is its cost-effectiveness and reliability, especially for those with septic systems. You get a massive 44,000 sheets per case, making it an incredible value for anyone looking to stock up. However, potential buyers must set their expectations accordingly. We found this paper to be quite thin, and it lacks the softness of consumer-grade brands. Several users shared this sentiment, with some describing it as verging on translucent. This thinness can sometimes lead to the two plies separating during unrolling, which can be a minor annoyance. If your priorities are price per sheet and plumbing safety over plush comfort, this is a very smart and practical choice.

#9 MEMBER´S MARK Ultra Premium 2-ply Bath Tissue – Suits: Warehouse Club Shoppers Seeking Quality

The MEMBER´S MARK Ultra Premium 2-ply Bath Tissue is a private-label powerhouse that delivers on its “ultra premium” promise. In our side-by-side comparisons, we were impressed by its quality, which rivals that of major national brands. The paper is both soft and strong, offering a comfortable experience without the risk of tearing. One of its standout features, which we and other users appreciated, is the width of the rolls. In an era where many brands are shrinking their rolls, these feel substantial and full-sized, providing better coverage and value. The absorbency is excellent, and you can achieve a confident clean using fewer sheets. While it’s a fantastic product, some users have noted that it can produce a bit of paper “shedding” or lint, which is a common trade-off for very soft tissues. Overall, this is an outstanding option that provides premium quality and a generous roll size at a very competitive price point, making it a go-to for savvy shoppers.

#10 Scott ComfortPlus 36 Mega Rolls Toilet Paper – Ideal for: A Strong, Clog-Free 1-Ply Option

The Scott ComfortPlus 36 Mega Rolls Toilet Paper proves that 1-ply doesn’t have to mean flimsy or rough. We were genuinely surprised by the thickness and strength of this paper, which Scott claims is 3x thicker than the leading value brand. In our hands-on testing, it felt substantial and held up well, avoiding the easy tearing that plagues lesser 1-ply products. One of its most significant advantages is its flushability. It’s designed to dissolve quickly, making it an excellent choice for RVs, boats, or homes with sensitive septic systems. One user perfectly captured its appeal, praising its solid strength without the “over soft clogg-iness of Charmin.” The mega rolls are packed with 425 sheets, offering great longevity and value. While it is Scott’s softest offering, it’s important to note that it won’t feel as plush as a premium 2-ply competitor. It prioritizes a balanced, strong, and clog-free experience, making it the best in its class for those who prefer or require a high-quality 1-ply tissue.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose The Right Product for You

Key Factors to Consider

• Ply Count: This refers to the number of layers per sheet. 1-ply is thinner and dissolves faster (great for septic systems/RVs), while 2-ply is the standard for home use, offering a good balance of comfort and strength. 3-ply options offer extra plushness but can be more expensive and potentially riskier for older plumbing.
• Softness vs. Strength: The holy grail is a toilet paper that is both soft and strong. Ultra-plush papers can sometimes be less durable when wet or leave behind lint. Stronger, textured papers might not feel as luxurious. Decide which attribute is more important for your household.
• Sheet Count & Roll Size: Don’t be fooled by the number of rolls in a pack. Look at the number of sheets per roll and the total square footage. “Mega” and “Family” rolls can offer great value by reducing how often you need to change the roll, but ensure they fit in your dispenser first.
• Septic Safety: If you have a septic system, this is non-negotiable. Look for products explicitly labeled “septic-safe.” These are designed to break down quickly and efficiently to prevent costly plumbing issues. Brands like Scott are particularly well-known for their septic-safe formulations.

Understanding Shrinkflation in Toilet Paper

A common complaint you’ll see from long-time buyers of a particular brand is “shrinkflation.” This is the practice of reducing the size or quantity of a product while keeping the price the same. In the world of toilet paper, this manifests in two main ways: reducing the number of sheets per roll or, more subtly, making the roll itself narrower. We saw numerous user comments for brands like Cottonelle and Georgia-Pacific mentioning that the rolls are now a half-inch or more narrower than they used to be. This means you’re getting less paper for your money and the roll may look awkwardly small in a standard holder. It’s a key reason to pay attention to the total square footage listed on the package rather than just the roll count.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Ignoring Total Square Footage: Buying a 48-roll pack seems like a great deal, but if each roll only has 150 sheets, it might be a worse value than a 24-roll pack of mega rolls with 400 sheets each. Always do the math.
• Choosing a Roll Too Big for Your Holder: Those “Family Mega” or “Super Mega” rolls are convenient, but many users report they are too wide or thick to spin freely in older, recessed, or decorative toilet paper holders. Measure your holder before buying in bulk.
• Buying Commercial Paper for Home Comfort: While commercial toilet paper offers incredible bulk value, it’s engineered for high-traffic public restrooms. It prioritizes durability and rapid dissolution over softness. If you’re expecting a plush, at-home feel, you will likely be disappointed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the number one rated toilet paper?

Based on our extensive testing and analysis of user feedback, the Charmin Ultra Soft 24 Family Mega Rolls is our number one rated toilet paper. It offers the best combination of luxurious softness, high absorbency, and overall user satisfaction, making it the top choice for most households seeking a premium experience.

Is 2-ply or 3-ply toilet paper better?

Neither is definitively “better” as it depends on your priorities. 2-ply is the industry standard and offers a great balance of strength, softness, and flushability for most modern plumbing. 3-ply offers an extra layer of plushness and absorbency but is typically more expensive and can be riskier for older or sensitive plumbing systems as it takes longer to break down.

Which toilet paper brand is the softest and strongest?

For the absolute softest experience, our tests point to Charmin Ultra Soft. For maximum strength and durability, especially when wet, Charmin Ultra Strong is the clear winner. While some brands try to balance both, these two products excel at their respective strengths.

How do major publications test toilet paper?

We conduct a series of hands-on tests to evaluate key performance metrics. This includes absorbency tests (measuring how much liquid a sheet can hold), wet strength tests (using a Mullen Burst Tester or similar device to see how much force it takes to puncture a wet sheet), softness evaluation (using both sensory panels and instrumental analysis), and dissolution tests (agitating sheets in a measured amount of water to see how quickly they break apart, simulating flushing).

What is the difference between residential and commercial toilet paper?

Residential toilet paper prioritizes comfort, softness, and thickness. Commercial toilet paper, like the Scott Professional or Georgia-Pacific products we reviewed, prioritizes value, durability, and rapid dissolution to prevent clogs in high-traffic facilities. The rolls are often larger, the paper is thinner, and the focus is on cost-per-sheet over a plush feel.

Is expensive toilet paper actually worth the cost?

In many cases, yes. While the initial cost is higher, premium toilet papers like Charmin or Cottonelle are often much more absorbent and thicker. This means you can use significantly fewer sheets per use compared to a thin, budget brand. Over the life of the pack, the cost difference may narrow, and the vastly improved comfort and performance make it a worthwhile upgrade for many people.

Which toilet paper leaves the least amount of lint?

In our experience and based on widespread user feedback, brands that focus on texture and strength tend to leave less lint. Cottonelle Ultra ComfortCare is frequently praised for providing a clean, lint-free experience. Stronger options like Charmin Ultra Strong and Scott products also perform very well in this regard, whereas ultra-plush, “cushiony” papers are more prone to leaving behind small paper fibers.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After a thorough evaluation of the top contenders on the market, we are happy to reaffirm our top recommendation. For the vast majority of homes, the Charmin Ultra Soft 24 Family Mega Rolls is simply the best toilet paper you can buy. It delivers on its promise of a “Cushiony Touch” with a level of softness that truly sets it apart. But it’s not just about comfort; its superior absorbency means each roll lasts longer, providing real value. From its innovative easy-tear perforations to the simple fact that it makes a daily necessity feel a little more luxurious, it consistently outperformed the competition. It’s the clear choice for anyone who refuses to compromise on quality and comfort in their bathroom.

Last update on 2025-11-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API