What Is GSM in Toilet Paper?
| GSM Range | Description | Thickness | Application |
| 10-12 GSM | Thin tissue | Lightweight | Budget / Travel Packs |
| 13-15 GSM | Standard bamboo tissue | Medium | Everyday household use |
| 16-18 GSM | Premium tissue | Thicker & softer | Hotels, premium brands |
| 18+ GSM | Luxury-grade or multi-layer | Very thick | High-end retail, gift sets |
Important: GSM is not the same as “ply” (number of layers), but both influence overall feel and absorbency. For example, a 3-ply 13gsm tissue may feel softer than a 2-ply 16gsm sheet, depending on embossing and fiber.
Why GSM Matters in Bamboo Toilet Paper
1. Performance & Durability
Higher GSM bamboo tissue resists tearing, offers better absorbency, and delivers a more luxurious feel. Lower GSM can reduce cost, but may lead to more paper usage per flush.
2. Consumer Perception
Buyers often equate GSM with quality. Especially in eco-friendly segments, a well-balanced GSM provides softness without bulk.
3. Supply Chain Consideration
Higher GSM means more weight per roll, which impacts shipping cost. For exporters, GSM helps balance product quality and freight efficiency.
GSM in Bamboo vs Recycled Toilet Paper
Bamboo fibers naturally produce higher GSM paper at a given softness level, thanks to their longer and stronger fibers. Compared to recycled toilet paper:
| Property | Papier hygiénique en bambou | Recycled Paper |
|---|---|---|
| GSM (typical) | 13–18 | 9–14 |
| Strength | Higher | Lower |
| Softness | Naturally softer | Often stiffer |
| Absorbency | Higher | Moderate |
How to Choose the Right GSM for Your Brand
| Business Type | Recommended GSM | Rationale |
|---|---|---|
| Budget retail / promo | 12-13 GSM | Cost-saving, light weight |
| Supermarket & eCommerce | 14-15 GSM | Balanced softness & price |
| Hotel / high-end private label | 16-18 GSM | Premium user experience |
| Amazon premium listings | 18+ GSM | Competitive reviews / repeat buyers |
Also consider matching embossing style, ply count, and core/no-core format with GSM to position your product correctly.
Video Resource – Understanding Bamboo’s Structure & Density
Want to see how bamboo’s unique fiber structure makes it ideal for eco-friendly, absorbent toilet paper? Here’s a short video from Bamboo Insights, an independent channel exploring the science and beauty of bamboo.
FAQs About GSM in Toilet Paper
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Quel est le GSM approprié pour le papier hygiénique en bambou ?
A GSM between 13 and 18 is ideal, depending on your market positioning. For premium softness and absorbency, aim for 16+.
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Is GSM more important than ply count?
Not necessarily. Both matter. GSM affects density and softness, while ply relates to strength and absorption per sheet.
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Can I specify GSM for my private label order?
Yes. Most OEM bamboo toilet paper factories support GSM customization between 12 and 20. You can also request lab-tested GSM reports.
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How does GSM affect pricing?
Higher GSM usually means more fiber per sheet, leading to increased production cost and shipping weight.
Final Thoughts
For importers and private label brands, GSM is a core indicator of tissue quality. It affects user satisfaction, shipping cost, and market competitiveness. Understanding GSM allows you to tailor your bamboo toilet paper to specific buyer expectations and stand out in a crowded eco-friendly paper market.
Bambou Newland specializes in custom GSM bamboo tissue solutions for wholesale, OEM, and private label. Contact us to request a free sample with GSM specification today.
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