Tissues are part of our daily lives. We use them to clean our hands, wipe our faces, and tidy up messes. They are practical and easy to carry, but have you ever wondered how they are made? Let’s look at the science behind that soft piece of paper.
How Tissues are Made
The process turns raw materials into the soft sheets we know. Here are the steps:
Cutting: Finally, the large rolls of dry paper are cut into different sizes—like small squares for your pocket or long rolls for the bathroom.
Cleaning (Refining): Raw materials like wood or bamboo are cleaned to remove dirt and chemicals. They are turned into a soft “pulp” (like a watery soup of fibers).
Pressing: This pulp is pressed flat to squeeze out the water, creating a very thin layer.
Drying: The thin layer passes over large heated drums to dry out completely. This makes the paper strong but light.
What are Tissues Made From?
Most tissues come from one of these three materials:
Recycled Material: The most eco-friendly option. It uses old paper to make new tissues. These might not be as white or soft, but they are great for the planet.
Wood Pulp: The most common material. It is strong and cheap, but not always the best for the environment.
Bamboo Fiber: A newer, “green” choice. Bamboo grows very fast and is biodegradable. It is also very soft, which is great for sensitive skin.