What is Who Gives A Crap?
Quick answer
Who Gives A Crap is an Australian company that sells toilet paper, paper towels and tissues made from recycled paper or bamboo, delivered by subscription. Founded in 2012, it donates 50% of its profits to charities that build toilets and improve sanitation in developing countries.
How it started
The company was founded in Melbourne by Simon Griffiths, Jehan Ratnatunga and Danny Alexander. To raise money for the first production run in 2012, Griffiths famously sat on a toilet in a warehouse, livestreaming, and promised not to get up until crowdfunding reached its goal. It took about 50 hours.
What it sells
| Product | Material |
|---|---|
| Premium toilet paper | 100% bamboo |
| Recycled toilet paper | 100% recycled paper |
| Paper towels and tissues | Bamboo or recycled |
| Other household items | Such as cleaning products, depending on the country |
Rolls come individually wrapped in colorful paper instead of plastic, a signature look that customers often reuse as gift wrap.
Where the money goes
The company says it has donated millions of dollars to partners such as WaterAid and other sanitation charities. The issue is huge: billions of people still lack safely managed sanitation, and diseases linked to unsafe toilets and water kill hundreds of thousands of children every year, according to UN agencies.
Is it worth it?
Pros:
- Plastic-free packaging and recycled or fast-growing bamboo materials
- A clear charitable mission
- Convenient bulk delivery
Cons:
- Usually more expensive per roll than supermarket brands
- You need storage space for large boxes
- Availability depends on your country (it sells in Australia, the US, UK, Canada and parts of Europe)
Interested in companies with a mission? See Start With Why. For greener habits at home, read why you should leave fallen leaves.
Still curious?
Jump to a random question from the archive.