Paper: Recycled Doesn't Always Mean Green

Just because a towel or tissue uses recycled fibers does not automatically mean that the product is green. Cleaning managers in search of true green products should look for those that feature a certifying label from third-party organizations such as Green Seal, EcoLogo or the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Paper that received these certifications has passed strict testing and means the product is produced using a specific percentage of post-consumer content and recovered fibers.

The EPA recommends a minimum of 40 percent post-consumer waste content in the manufacturing of towels and a minimum of 20 percent for restroom tissue. For a restroom tissue to be certified by Green Seal, the fiber in the product must contain 100 percent recovered materials, including 20 percent post-consumer materials. Green Seal and EcoLogo standards also mandate that towels and tissue cannot be bleached with chlorine or any of its derivatives such as hypochlorite or chlorine dioxide.

To be truly green, certifying bodies also look at the products packaging. Most third-party organizations mandate that the cores in roll towels and restroom tissue be made from 100 percent recycled materials.

Certifications ensure that products are the greenest available and provide piece of mind for cleaners.