Does Toilet Paper Expire? (Read This Before You Wipe)

So, you’re contemplating buying a large stock of toilet paper, and a lot of people do it. But now you’re wondering how long you can store it. Does toilet paper expire? How and where should you store toilet paper?

Toilet paper does not expire if it’s stored appropriately in a cool and dry place. Toilet paper should ideally be stored in its original packaging or in an airtight or watertight container. When in storage, toilet paper should be protected from moisture, sunlight, and extreme temperatures.

These containers prevent mold and bacteria from growing on your toilet paper and allow it to last for months, years, and even decades. In this article, we’ll discuss how and where you should store your toilet paper.

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Does Toilet Paper Expire

Technically, toilet paper can expire, but not as fast as you might think. Plus the odds are slim that you might store toilet paper for decades.

We use toilet paper every single day and go through numerous rolls every year.

How Long Does Toilet Paper Last?

Toilet paper can last for months, years, or even decades if stored appropriately. This is why people usually buy toilet paper in bulk. If you find an old toilet roll in your cupboard still in its original packaging, the chances are it’s still good to use. 

If toilet paper is not stored appropriately, it can collect dust and dirt. Toilet paper that gets wet or even damp will also be a magnet for mold to grow.

We do not recommend keeping or using moldy toilet paper.

What Is the Lifespan of Toilet Paper?

There is not a standard lifespan for toilet paper because toilet paper does not expire unless it is exposed to moisture or dirt. Toilet paper is biodegradable, so when exposed to the elements, it decomposes in 5 weeks.

If you keep your toilet paper in a moisture-proof container or cupboard, it could last for years.

When toilet paper is stored in a hot and humid environment, you might start to see or smell mold growing.

Does Toilet Paper Have an Expiration Date?

Manufacturers do put an expiration date on toilet paper, but you would be surprised to know that your toilet paper can last months, years, or even decades. How long it stays good can depend on how you store your toilet paper.

If you store your toilet paper in a watertight container,  mold cannot grow on your toilet paper.

The spores that mold releases into your house are linked to asthma and allergy symptoms, such as shortness of breath, coughing, or wheezing.

Why Does Toilet Paper Have an Expiration Date?

Toilet paper has an expiration date just to encourage consumers (you and me) to buy more. If we notice our favorite pasta, or any food item, is past its expiration date we will automatically throw it out.

That should not be the case with toilet paper. If your toilet paper is stored in a dry and cool cupboard it’s most likely still usable after the expiration date.

Even better if it is still in the original packaging.

How Long Does Toilet Paper Last in Package?

Storing toilet paper in its original packaging is the best way to ensure that the toilet paper lasts as long as possible. Depending on the brand and the type of paper they use, toilet paper rolls can last for years. 

The original plastic package of the toilet paper is usually waterproof and dustproof. Most people store their toilet paper under their sink, and this sounds like a good idea.

Until your sink water pipe leaks and you have a huge sloppy mess under your sink.

We definitely recommend keeping your toilet paper in its original packaging or at least purchasing a water-tight container to store your toilet paper in.

This is to prolong the lifespan of your toilet paper and protect against accidents.

Does Toilet Paper Deteriorate?

Toilet paper does not deteriorate with age, yet it is designed to dissolve in our toilets and sewage systems. Toilet paper can dissolve in water within 5 seconds, but dry toilet paper cannot deteriorate.

With age, your toilet paper might be weaker than it was when you first bought it, but it probably will not deteriorate unless it is exposed to the elements.

Toilet paper can decompose quite quickly, within a few weeks.

Can You Use Moldy Toilet Paper

Using moldy toilet paper is never a good idea. Inhaling mold, or even touching it, can cause serious health issues to humans, and pets. Let’s discuss why.

Can Mold Grow On Toilet Paper?

Mold can grow on toilet paper, but only if the toilet paper has been exposed to a lot of moisture or has gotten wet. Mold can grow on almost any surface that is damp, including toilet paper.

Black mold is the most common type of mold that grows on toilet paper.

If you smell a musty, stale smell or see tiny dark mold spots growing on your toilet paper you should dispose of the roll.

Can You Use Moldy Toilet Paper?

You should not use moldy toilet paper. Mold is known to trigger allergy-like symptoms when breathed in or in contact with your skin. Since toilet paper does come in contact with your skin it’s best not to use moldy toilet paper.

Luckily, toilet paper is a basic necessity. When buying in bulk we recommend ensuring that your toilet paper is stored in a dry environment and securely wrapped until in use.

Using moldy toilet paper could trigger a mold allergy.

How Do You Get Mold Out of Toilet Paper?

It is not very easy to get mold out of toilet paper, because toilet paper is so thin. If you caught the mold growing early enough you can brush it off the surface, but if the mold has grown into the toilet paper it’s better to dispose of the roll.

When you see mold spots on your toilet paper, immediately move your roll to a room with less moisture, or even into the fridge.

Wait a day or two for the mold to dry out and throw away any tissue with mold on it.

Why Did Mold Grow On My Toilet Paper?

Mold only grows on toilet paper that has been exposed to moisture or has been wet. If you have no recollection of your toilet paper getting wet, you should check the storage space for pipe leaks or any signs of moisture.

Most people store their toilet paper rolls under their sinks, and when their toilet paper gets moldy they realize that their sink U-pipe must be leaking water.

It’s the best practice to store your toilet paper high (above the pipes) and dry. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v_n7FtWppfE

Can You Use Expired Toilet Paper?

The expiration date on the toilet paper packaging does not mean much, you can use that toilet paper even if it has technically expired. Just remember to check for mold before using it.

Usually, you can smell mold before you see it. When using an ‘expired’ toilet roll, first smell the roll for any bad or weird smells and then check for dark spots.

If you notice neither you can usually use the roll as is.

Is Toilet Paper Affected by Heat?

Toilet paper can dry out and break down due to excessive heat if you leave it outside under the sun for a prolonged period. However, most people keep their rolls inside their bathrooms, where heat doesn’t really affect toilet paper.

If you live in an area with constant high humidity (above 50%) and warm temperatures (between 70° and 90°F).

You might need to be more watchful for mold growing on your toilet paper, or any other surface.

How Do You Dry Wet Toilet Paper Rolls?

If multiple toilet paper rolls have gotten wet, they might be savable. You don’t need to do anything specifically, simply put the wet rolls on a drying rack in your kitchen and wait for them to dry out.

Before trying to use the toilet paper, check for signs of mold. If you see and smell nothing, you’re good to go.

The toilet paper might be stiffer, but at least you didn’t have to throw out a whole toilet paper roll.

How Should You Store Toilet Paper

Storing a large amount of toilet paper can be a headache, as toilet paper takes up a lot of space. We have a few tips for you on where and how to store your toilet paper.

How Should You Store Toilet Paper Long-Term?

To store toilet paper long-term, the most important thing to remember is to store it in a cool and dry space. Mold prefers hot and humid areas like your bathroom, so it might be a good idea to store your toilet paper outside your bathroom.

Toilet paper can take up quite a bit of space, especially if you have bought it in bulk. However, it is safer to store the majority of your stock outside your bathroom.

Clear a space in your linen closet or use a spare room, remember to keep a few rolls in the bathroom in case of an emergency!

How Many Years Can You Store Toilet Paper?

If done appropriately, toilet paper can be stored for several years. There is no standard amount of years due to different brands not producing the same quality toilet paper. Generally 3-ply toilet paper can last the longest.

3-ply toilet paper is the most expensive but also the best quality toilet paper. It is made from three layers of paper, which is super absorbent.

Yet 1-ply toilet paper can also last for years if stored appropriately.

Can Toilet Paper Be Stored in the Garage?

If you bought toilet paper in bulk you might think that the garage is the best place to store it right? Well, actually not. Mice and other rodents love any paper products and they like to make homes in these products.

We all know that toilet paper can take up a lot of space, especially if you bought it in bulk.

If you have absolutely no space in your house, the best option would be to store your paper products in an airtight container in your garage.

Should You Store Toilet Paper in the Bathroom?

You can store toilet paper in the bathroom, just be sure that the storage space is dry. It’s not the best idea to store your toilet paper under your sink, your sink might leak and all your toilet paper would be ruined.

A bathroom also has the most moisture in your house, so your toilet paper is more likely to attract mold if it is stored in the bathroom.

We recommend storing your toilet paper in your linen closet outside your bathroom.

How Do You Store Toilet Paper in the Bathroom?

If the bathroom is your only option to store toilet paper you should get a watertight container. This container will ensure that no moisture from the air or water from leaky pipes will damage your toilet paper.

Toilet paper can take up a lot of space in your bathroom, so we recommend keeping 6 rolls in a watertight container in your bathroom and the rest of your stock in your linen closet or in a container in the garage.

How Do You Store Toilet Paper Under the Sink?

Most people store their toilet paper under the sink, and this seems like the perfect place for your toilet paper – until your sink leaks and you have a sloppy mess under your sink. There is a way to prevent this from happening and still store your toilet paper under your sink, just get a watertight container. 

We recommend buying a watertight container. These containers keep your toilet paper moisture-free, preventing mold from growing and protecting your toilet paper in case your sink leaks.

Another option is to keep the toilet paper in its original plastic packaging to protect it from moisture.

How Do You Store Large Amounts of Toilet Paper?

When buying toilet paper in bulk it can take up a lot of storage space in your house. We recommend storing some of the toilet paper in your linen closet and the rest of your stock can be kept in the garage.

You should remember that storing toilet paper in your garage can attract mice and rodents.

You should store toilet paper in an airtight container in your garage to make sure the toilet paper stays fresh and out of reach of pests.

How Long Does Toilet Paper Last for a Family of Four?

The average American adult uses 1.5 rolls of toilet paper per week. This means that a family of 4 would use at least 6 rolls of toilet paper per week and between 300 – 400 rolls per year.

A family of 4 would need 30 – 35 rolls of toilet paper per week, depending on how much is used per week.

This is different for every family, as some use more toilet paper and some use less. Americans on average use a lot more toilet paper than Europeans.

Does Toilet Paper Go Over or Under?

According to the original toilet paper roll, designed by Seth Wheeler, the toilet paper goes over the roll. This reduces the number of bacteria and mold that could grow on your toilet paper.

E.coli is a very common bacteria that is spread the most in public restrooms on toilet paper.

If the toilet paper is ‘over’ the roll, it means that you will only be touching the sheet of toilet paper that you will be using.

Does Facial Tissue Expire?

Technically, facial tissues won’t last forever, but they do not have an expiration date printed on the packaging. This is due to the fact that tissues can’t go bad, but they can decompose. 

Facial tissues usually take about 5 weeks to decompose, give or take the temperature, weather, and other factors.

They can also be bought in bulk and stored in airtight packaging to prevent mold and bacteria from growing on the facial tissues.  

Final Thoughts

So if you’re stocking up in preparation for the apocalypse or another pandemic, we have provided you with the best tips on how and where to store your toilet paper.

Now you’re ready for any situation, it can’t be worse than 2020.