Single, Double, or Triple Ply: What Should You Really Look At?
When it comes to toilet paper, ply count is often the first thing mentioned. Single, double, or triple ply gives an initial indication, but this criterion alone is not enough to determine a product’s quality or effectiveness. The most important question is ultimately the message you want to send to your guests.
Ply Count Is Only One Factor
The number of plies affects how the paper feels in hand and its overall strength, but it must be considered alongside other factors such as fiber quality, paper density, absorption capacity, and real-life performance. That said, ply count does influence two key aspects: it reduces the risk of very unpleasant accidents for guests and helps limit the amount of paper needed to do the job properly—without unrolling half the roll.
Sheet width and sheet integrity also matter. Wider, well-bonded sheets provide better coverage and stability, contributing to a more comfortable experience and more controlled consumption.
What Each Option Can Offer
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Single ply: A cost-driven option typically used in high-traffic environments or in properties where guest comfort is not a priority. It often requires using more paper to achieve the same result.
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Double ply: Long seen as a balance between comfort and efficiency, it has become a standard in many markets, although it is gradually losing ground to triple ply.
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Triple ply: Offers greater strength and comfort, with improved absorption per sheet, which can positively influence overall consumption.
These differences should always be evaluated based on context, usage, and the expectations of each property.
Focusing on Real-World Performance
Beyond ply count, performance depends on how the paper works in everyday use. Single ply typically requires more sheets, double ply offers better strength, and triple ply provides greater comfort and absorption per sheet. Sheet separation quality affects clean dispensing, while roll winding influences presentation and smooth, consistent use.
Fiber quality and sheet width also play an important role. Finer fibers improve softness and durability, while wider sheets cover more surface area, helping reduce overall consumption when usage habits are adjusted. Together, these factors define comfort, efficiency, and perceived quality.
Making an Informed Choice
There is no one-size-fits-all solution. The right choice depends on the level of comfort you wish to offer and the priorities of your establishment. Understanding these differences helps make a thoughtful decision without relying on a single technical factor. From our perspective, after many years of staying in all types of hotels before creating Roll-Lux, the choice naturally leaned toward quality. This led us to Skin Care Purissimo, a triple-ply paper made from 100% virgin fiber, featuring wider-than-standard sheets, a refined appearance, and dermatological and gynecological testing. In hospitality, it is often the smallest details that make the biggest difference.