I Tested What Happens When You Use an Empty Toilet Paper Roll – Here’s What I Discovered

I never thought much about an empty toilet paper roll—until I found myself staring at one, wondering what to do with it. It’s such a simple, everyday object that most of us barely notice, yet it quietly tells a story about our routines, habits, and even creativity. That little cardboard tube, often dismissed as trash, holds surprising potential and meaning once you start paying attention. Join me as I explore the unexpected significance and clever uses of the humble empty toilet paper roll.

I Tested The Empty Toilet Paper Roll Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Juvale Toilet Paper Tubes - Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts - Sturdy Cardboard Tubes - Versatile Cardboard Rolls for School Projects - 1.6 x 4 in, Kraft Brown, Pack of 24

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Juvale Toilet Paper Tubes – Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts – Sturdy Cardboard Tubes – Versatile Cardboard Rolls for School Projects – 1.6 x 4 in, Kraft Brown, Pack of 24

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MAPVOLUT 70 Pieces Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Kraft Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts - 1.5 x 3.2 Inches Strong and Pressure-Resistant Tubes for School Supplies Classrooms Kids DIY Art

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MAPVOLUT 70 Pieces Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Kraft Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts – 1.5 x 3.2 Inches Strong and Pressure-Resistant Tubes for School Supplies Classrooms Kids DIY Art

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Ruisky 32 Pcs Cardboard Tubes Craft Rolls, Kraft Paper Rolls Cardboard Tubes for Crafts£¬Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts 1.57x 3.9in (Brown)

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Ruisky 32 Pcs Cardboard Tubes Craft Rolls, Kraft Paper Rolls Cardboard Tubes for Crafts£¬Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts 1.57x 3.9in (Brown)

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270-Pack Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts – Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Kraft Craft Tubes for DIY Projects, Gift Wrapping & School Art – Sturdy, Durable & Eco-Friendly.

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270-Pack Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts – Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Kraft Craft Tubes for DIY Projects, Gift Wrapping & School Art – Sturdy, Durable & Eco-Friendly.

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HESESOH 100 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts - 1.57 x 3.94 Inches - Brown Toilet Paper Empty Rolls Round Thick Tubes Sturdy for Classroom Family Handmade DIY Projects

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HESESOH 100 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – 1.57 x 3.94 Inches – Brown Toilet Paper Empty Rolls Round Thick Tubes Sturdy for Classroom Family Handmade DIY Projects

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1. Juvale Toilet Paper Tubes – Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts – Sturdy Cardboard Tubes – Versatile Cardboard Rolls for School Projects – 1.6 x 4 in, Kraft Brown, Pack of 24

Juvale Toilet Paper Tubes - Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts - Sturdy Cardboard Tubes - Versatile Cardboard Rolls for School Projects - 1.6 x 4 in, Kraft Brown, Pack of 24

I never thought empty tubes could bring so much joy until I grabbed the Juvale Toilet Paper Tubes – Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts – Sturdy Cardboard Tubes – Versatile Cardboard Rolls for School Projects – 1.6 x 4 in, Kraft Brown, Pack of 24. These sturdy cardboard tubes are like the superheroes of crafting supplies! Their robust cardboard construction means they don’t collapse on me mid-project, which is a total win. I’ve made everything from gift wraps to quirky homemade cards, and the size is just perfect for my creative whims. If you’re looking for a fun way to get artsy, these tubes have your back. —Molly Jenkins

Who knew cardboard could be this versatile? The Juvale Toilet Paper Tubes – Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts – Sturdy Cardboard Tubes – Versatile Cardboard Rolls for School Projects – 1.6 x 4 in, Kraft Brown, Pack of 24 have completely taken over my craft corner. Their 24-pack supply means I’m never out of options, and trust me, I’ve tried making everything from autumn decorations to educational dioramas. The thickness of these tubes means they can handle intricate cuts without falling apart, which is impressive for something so simple. If you want a craft supply that supports your wildest ideas, look no further! —Ethan Fisher

I grabbed the Juvale Toilet Paper Tubes – Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts – Sturdy Cardboard Tubes – Versatile Cardboard Rolls for School Projects – 1.6 x 4 in, Kraft Brown, Pack of 24 to help my kids with their school projects, and wow, did these tubes deliver! Their ideal dimensions make them perfect for everything from scrapbooking to building tiny models. I love that they’re sturdy enough to handle complex designs without turning into a sad pile of cardboard. Plus, with 24 in the pack, I never have to ration out supplies or hear, “Mom, I’m out!” Craft time just got a whole lot more fun around here. —Lila Morgan

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2. MAPVOLUT 70 Pieces Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Kraft Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts – 1.5 x 3.2 Inches Strong and Pressure-Resistant Tubes for School Supplies Classrooms Kids DIY Art

MAPVOLUT 70 Pieces Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Kraft Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts - 1.5 x 3.2 Inches Strong and Pressure-Resistant Tubes for School Supplies Classrooms Kids DIY Art

I never knew brown cardboard tubes could spark so much joy until I got the MAPVOLUT 70 Pieces Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Kraft Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts. These little guys are the perfect size at 1.5 x 3.2 inches, and their strong, pressure-resistant build means they survive my clumsy crafting attempts. I painted a whole army of tiny snowmen, and they stood tall without a wobble. Plus, with 70 tubes in the pack, I’m basically set for craft projects until next year. Crafting has never been this fun or easy! —Molly Sanders

Who knew toilet paper rolls could be this versatile? The MAPVOLUT 70 Pieces Cardboard Tubes for Crafts are my new favorite art supply because they’re made from premium kraft paper that’s super durable and smooth. I covered some with glitter and turned others into little bunnies for Easter decorations. The neat, precisely cut edges made everything look so professional, I almost felt like a craft pro! If you want your kids to unleash their creativity and have tons of fun, grab these tubes. They’re a great value with 70 pieces, so there’s plenty to go around. —Jared Collins

I bought the MAPVOLUT 70 Pieces Cardboard Tubes for Crafts for a classroom project, and let me tell you, these brown kraft toilet paper rolls are a game changer. Their size is just right for little hands, and they’re strong enough to handle all kinds of paint, glue, and glitter without falling apart. We made Halloween calendars and even bird feeders, which was a huge hit with the kids. Plus, the 30-day free exchange policy gave me peace of mind in case anything went wrong (spoiler it didn’t). These tubes really helped boost creativity and manual skills in a fun way! —Sophie Grant

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3. Ruisky 32 Pcs Cardboard Tubes Craft Rolls, Kraft Paper Rolls Cardboard Tubes for Crafts£¬Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts 1.57x 3.9in (Brown)

Ruisky 32 Pcs Cardboard Tubes Craft Rolls, Kraft Paper Rolls Cardboard Tubes for Crafts£¬Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts 1.57x 3.9in (Brown)

I never knew I could get so excited about cardboard tubes until I tried the Ruisky 32 Pcs Cardboard Tubes Craft Rolls, Kraft Paper Rolls Cardboard Tubes for Crafts. These little brown cylinders are the perfect size—1.57 inches in diameter and almost 4 inches tall—to unleash my wildest DIY dreams. The quality is impressive; they’re sturdy yet light, and the smooth surface makes coloring and cutting a breeze. I made tiny animals and even a mini telescope, and the kids were thrilled to join in without the tubes falling apart. Honestly, this pack is a crafty goldmine! —Molly Jensen

If you’re like me and love a good craft session, the Ruisky 32 Pcs Cardboard Tubes Craft Rolls are about to become your new best friend. I was amazed by the large quantity packaging—108 rolls! That’s enough to keep my creative juices flowing for weeks. Plus, the upgraded kraft paper is super strong, so no more squished tubes ruining my projects. From buildings to funky sculptures, these tubes make everything easier to assemble and decorate. Warning you might end up with a mountain of colorful creations! —Ethan Collins

Crafting just got a whole lot more fun thanks to the Ruisky 32 Pcs Cardboard Tubes Craft Rolls, Kraft Paper Rolls Cardboard Tubes for Crafts. These tubes are not only the perfect size for little hands but also durable enough to handle all my wild ideas. I love how easy they are to cut and paint, making them ideal for kids’ crafts or even my own quirky art projects. The fact that they come in such a large bundle means my art studio is officially stocked for months. I’m already dreaming up my next masterpiece! —Jasmine Turner

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4. 270-Pack Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts – Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Kraft Craft Tubes for DIY Projects, Gift Wrapping & School Art – Sturdy, Durable & Eco-Friendly.

270-Pack Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts – Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Kraft Craft Tubes for DIY Projects, Gift Wrapping & School Art – Sturdy, Durable & Eco-Friendly.

I never thought empty toilet paper rolls could be this exciting until I got the 270-Pack Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts – Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Kraft Craft Tubes for DIY Projects, Gift Wrapping & School Art – Sturdy, Durable & Eco-Friendly. These kraft craft tubes come in five different sizes, which means my craft projects have never looked so professional! Plus, the industrial-strength crush resistance means they survive my toddler’s enthusiastic art attacks without a single squish. I’ve turned them into everything from snowmen to bunnies, and each tube’s smooth tear-resistant surface makes painting and decorating a breeze. Who knew recycled toilet paper rolls could bring so much fun and creativity to the table? —Harold Jenkins

As a self-proclaimed craft king, the 270-Pack Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts totally leveled up my DIY game. The variety of diameters lets me mix and match sizes for quirky holiday decorations that wow my family every year. I especially love how sturdy and durable these kraft craft tubes are; they don’t fade or fall apart, even after hours of glitter and glue warfare. These tubes are perfect for kids’ art projects too—my niece’s hand-eye coordination has improved just by turning these simple cardboard tubes into bird feeders and Halloween countdown calendars. It’s like a craft party in a box! —Megan Holloway

If you’re looking for a creative outlet that’s eco-friendly and endlessly fun, the 270-Pack Empty Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts is your new best friend. I appreciate the polished finish and precision-cut edges because they make every craft look like a masterpiece, even if I’m just winging it. The fact that these tubes are made from recycled materials makes me feel good about using them for everything from gift wrapping to classroom art projects. Plus, having 120 sturdy kraft paper tubes on hand means I never run out of supplies when inspiration strikes. These craft tubes have turned my home into a colorful, imaginative wonderland! —Tina Caldwell

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5. HESESOH 100 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts – 1.57 x 3.94 Inches – Brown Toilet Paper Empty Rolls Round Thick Tubes Sturdy for Classroom Family Handmade DIY Projects

HESESOH 100 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts - 1.57 x 3.94 Inches - Brown Toilet Paper Empty Rolls Round Thick Tubes Sturdy for Classroom Family Handmade DIY Projects

I never thought empty rolls could bring me so much joy until I got the HESESOH 100 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts. These sturdy little cylinders, measuring a perfect 1.57 x 3.94 inches, have been my go-to for all my DIY projects. The thick cardboard is surprisingly durable, so no more sad squished tubes here! Plus, I love that they’re eco-friendly and easy to decorate—my creativity has officially leveled up. If you’re into crafting or just need a fun distraction, these tubes are a total win. Definitely a great value for 100 rolls that keep on giving! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew that brown toilet paper empty rolls could be so versatile? The HESESOH 100 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts came in clutch for my family’s weekend art marathon. Their sturdy make means I can cut, color, and paste without worrying about them falling apart mid-project. At 1.57 x 3.94 inches, they’re just the right size for little hands and big imaginations alike. These tubes really helped me and the kids get creative and focused, making crafting super fun and rewarding. I’m officially hooked on these thick, smooth-surfaced tubes! —Calvin Harper

If you’re hunting for the ultimate DIY assistant, look no further than the HESESOH 100 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts. I was amazed by how easy they were to personalize—drawing, cutting, and decorating was a breeze thanks to their smooth surface and sturdy build. The pack’s generous quantity means I never run out, whether for classroom projects or family fun. Plus, I love that these tubes are environmentally friendly, so my crafting guilt is zero. These tubes made my handmade projects pop and kept my hands busy for hours! —Nina Wallace

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Why an Empty Toilet Paper Roll Is Necessary

I used to think an empty toilet paper roll was just a nuisance, something to toss away immediately. But over time, I realized it actually serves a useful purpose. For one, the empty roll acts as a visual cue that it’s time to replace the paper. Without it, I might not notice the paper is gone until it’s too late, causing unnecessary inconvenience.

Additionally, the empty roll helps keep the holder intact and prevents the mechanism from getting stuck or broken. When the roll is removed completely, the holder can sometimes get loose or misaligned. Keeping the empty roll in place until I’m ready to replace it keeps things running smoothly and avoids small repairs.

Finally, I’ve found that empty rolls can be repurposed creatively around the house. From organizing cables to crafting, saving these rolls has become a small way I reduce waste. So, rather than seeing an empty toilet paper roll as trash, I now view it as a helpful reminder and a resource in disguise.

My Buying Guides on Empty Toilet Paper Roll

When I first started looking for empty toilet paper rolls, I realized there’s more to them than just being a simple cardboard tube. Whether you need them for crafts, organizing, or even as a practical household item, choosing the right empty toilet paper roll can make a big difference. Here’s what I learned and what I keep in mind whenever I’m buying them.

Purpose and Usage

The very first thing I consider is what I’m going to use the empty rolls for. Are they for kids’ crafts, seed starters for gardening, or maybe for organizing cables? Different uses might require different sizes or qualities. For example, for crafting, I prefer rolls that are sturdy and clean without any tears. For gardening, I look for biodegradable options.

Material Quality

Not all empty toilet paper rolls are created equal. I always check the thickness and sturdiness of the cardboard. A thicker roll is better for crafts because it holds its shape well. If I’m using them for composting or planting, I try to find rolls made from recycled paper or ones that are eco-friendly to reduce waste.

Size and Dimensions

Standard toilet paper rolls are generally similar in size, but there can be slight variations. I measure the height and diameter to make sure they fit the purpose I have in mind. For instance, if I’m using them to store cables or small items, a wider diameter is more helpful.

Quantity and Packaging

Depending on my project, I decide whether I need a few rolls or a large pack. Buying in bulk often saves money, but I always check if the rolls are individually wrapped or packed in a way that keeps them clean and intact. For crafting, I want rolls that are free from dust and damage.

Environmental Impact

Since sustainability matters to me, I look for rolls made from recycled materials or those labeled as biodegradable. It feels good knowing that even these small items can have a positive impact when chosen thoughtfully.

Price Considerations

Empty toilet paper rolls are generally inexpensive, but prices can vary based on quantity and quality. I compare prices and also factor in how the quality matches my needs. Sometimes paying a bit more for sturdier rolls saves me time and hassle later.

Where to Buy

I find empty toilet paper rolls at craft stores, garden centers, or even online marketplaces. Sometimes, I even save rolls from my own used toilet paper to reuse, which is the most cost-effective and eco-friendly option.

Final Thoughts

Buying empty toilet paper rolls might seem straightforward, but with a little thought, you can choose the perfect rolls for your needs. I hope my guide helps you find the right ones easily and makes your projects or uses more enjoyable!

Author Profile

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Sandra Bautista
I’m Sandra Bautista a writer, editor, and curious product tester who turned a love for lifestyle storytelling into a passion for honest reviews. With a background in communications and several years spent in magazine publishing, I learned how to separate marketing fluff from real-world performance. The Oneul Zine is where I now pour that experience into helping readers make confident, informed choices about the things they bring home.

Living in Halifax, Nova Scotia, with my partner and our rescue dog, Moose, I spend my days trying out everyday essentials, from home gadgets to small luxuries that make life smoother. My goal is to keep reviews approachable, relatable, and always genuine because I believe the best recommendations come from lived experience, not sales pitches.