Do Employees Notice What Toilet Paper You Use? Why It Matters for Kiwi Workplaces

Choosing the right toilet paper for your office isn't just about cost or convenience — it directly impacts employee experience, hygiene, and how your business is perceived. In this blog, we explore why employees do notice what toilet paper you use, and why it matters for Kiwi workplaces.

Why Toilet Paper Choice Reflects on Your Business

Workplace amenities send a message. From kitchen supplies to bathroom quality, staff notice the details — especially in shared spaces like the loo. Toilet paper may seem like a small thing, but it can become a big deal when it's:

• Thin or rough

• Constantly running out

• Prone to tearing or clogging toilets

• Lacking eco-certifications when sustainability is a company value

Staff who feel cared for tend to be more engaged and productive. Something as small as quality toilet paper contributes to that sense of being valued.

What Employees Actually Notice

1. Comfort and Softness

Cheap, scratchy toilet paper is memorable — for the wrong reasons. Staff expect at least a standard level of comfort in the bathroom. Premium or bamboo rolls deliver better softness, especially in client-facing environments.

2. Availability and Reliability

If toilet paper runs out frequently, employees notice. It leads to frustration, complaints, or even people bringing their own! Choosing jumbo rolls or bulk dispensers with easy-refill options solves this issue.

3. Cleanliness and Hygiene Perception

Well-stocked, decent-quality toilet paper contributes to a cleaner, more hygienic image. Conversely, poor-quality or missing supplies reflect a lack of attention to hygiene.

4. Eco-Friendly Credentials

Employees increasingly value sustainability. If your business has a sustainability policy, using recycled or bamboo toilet paper aligns your purchasing with your environmental goals. It also reinforces your brand values internally.

Staff Morale and Small Details

In competitive job markets, small perks and workplace care matter. Quality amenities (including toilet paper) can positively affect employee morale and workplace culture.

Commercial Considerations: Balancing Cost and Comfort

While some businesses opt for the cheapest option, this can backfire. Employees may overuse low-quality paper, leading to higher consumption rates and more frequent refills. Investing in mid-range or eco options like recycled or bamboo can reduce waste and show thoughtfulness.

If you're unsure about which option to choose, check out our in-depth article: Bamboo, Recycled or Premium? Choosing the Best Toilet Paper for Your Office. It explores the pros and cons of each type of toilet paper and offers practical advice for New Zealand workplaces looking to balance cost, comfort, and sustainability.

Best Practices for Kiwi Workplaces

• Choose comfort without compromising sustainability – mid-range bamboo or recycled options are ideal.

• Use commercial dispensers – reduce waste and improve hygiene.

• Buy in bulk – lower per-unit cost and prevent run-outs.

• Survey staff – a simple way to get feedback on what’s working.

• Match your choice to your brand – sustainability-focused? Make sure your toilet paper reflects that.

FAQ

Q: Do employees really care about toilet paper?
A: Yes — it's a part of their daily experience and reflects how much you value employee comfort.

Q: Is there a big difference in quality between bamboo, recycled, and virgin toilet paper?
A: Yes — bamboo tends to offer a good balance of softness and strength. Premium virgin pulp is usually the softest but has a higher environmental impact.

Q: Will better toilet paper reduce usage?
A: Often yes. Stronger, higher-quality paper typically requires fewer sheets per use.

Q: Can I stay eco-conscious and still provide comfort?
A: Definitely. Certified recycled and bamboo options are both comfortable and sustainable.

Conclusion

Employees notice more than you think — including toilet paper. Making the right choice shows your team you care about their comfort, reflects positively on your brand, and supports better hygiene across the workplace. For NZ businesses looking to improve morale, hygiene and sustainability, switching your toilet paper might be the easiest upgrade you make this year.

Explore Insinc's full range of eco-friendly, commercial toilet paper today.