Eco Cheeks makes toxin-free, tree-free toilet paper and tissue products that’s better for you and the planet. Made from 100% unbleached bamboo with zero nasty chemicals, they’re incredibly soft, strong, and sustainable – all delivered in 100% plastic-free packaging.
We had a chat with Tanya, the Founder of Eco Cheeks, to learn more about the brand and the person behind it.
When did you start Eco Cheeks?
I launched Eco Cheeks in January 2020.
What inspired you to start Eco Cheeks?
I had spent years eliminating unnecessary chemicals from my everyday products—cleaning, makeup and personal care—when I discovered what actually goes into producing traditional toilet paper. The biggest shock was the use of chlorine bleach purely to make it white. We associate white with being clean, but in reality it creates a toxic load. I think went on to learn that when paper pulp and chlorine are mixed together, they create dioxins a known toxin to people and the environment.
Once I learnt this, I went searching for a toilet paper with zero nasty chemicals, and when I couldn’t find one, I decided to create it myself.
Consumers are becoming more aware of eco-friendly alternatives and are beginning to look towards more sustainable materials, what made you choose bamboo for your range of products?
Bamboo is incredibly sustainable because it grows extremely fast and regenerates like a grass. Unlike chopping down 30-year-old trees and entire forest systems, bamboo can be harvested without harming wildlife or ecosystems – and like grass, it continues growing.
It also has no natural pests, which means no pesticides or herbicides are needed, keeping it naturally clean and chemical-free.
Recycled paper is another eco-friendly option, but post-consumer waste brings inks and dyes, and the chemically intensive process required to break it down, clean it, and bleach it white goes completely against my goal of creating a toxin-free, healthy alternative. So bamboo was the obvious choice.
You have some amazing sustainability initiatives, and are not only on a mission to create great products, but create positive impact and give back to the community. Which of these initiatives means the most to you?
Our two core charity partners are Starlight Children’s Foundation and Greenfleet—supporting both Australian families and the planet.
Sustainability is at the heart of Eco Cheeks, and I’m incredibly passionate about protecting our environment. But I have to say, the stories from Starlight move me the most. Maybe it’s a mum thing, but every time I read about the children and families they support, it reminds me how blessed I am to have a healthy little boy.
We’re honestly honoured to help spread some happiness and light to families going through unimaginably tough times.
What aspect of your business do you enjoy most?
I’d say the constant learning. I don’t run on autopilot as things shift every day, and with growth comes new challenges to solve. It can be exhausting at times, and yes, sometimes I wish I could do things with my eyes closed… but let’s be honest, I’d be bored!
Whether it be website updates or realising the power of my thoughts, the growth and learning I get, keeps it exciting.
What do you find the most challenging?
Working more on the business rather than in the business. I have a great team, and I know building out more procedures and guides will help them feel confident to make more day-to-day decisions without needing me involved.
It’s a work in progress, and I can easily get bogged down in doing “the stuff”, but learning to step back so I can move forward is part of my own development too.
What keeps you motivated and inspired?
Our customers!! They’re seriously incredible.
We receive the most heartwarming messages and hilarious notes on orders, which our fulfilment team loves sharing around. Their stories inspire us too – so many customers have struggled with irritation without realising their toilet paper was the cause, and then they experience incredible results after switching to ours. That’s when we know we’re creating something that genuinely makes a difference.
Their support, kindness and humour keep me motivated every single day.
Do you have a morning routine?
I do. I’m an early riser, usually 4:30/5am – and when the morning goes to plan (no urgent work!) I meditate and journal or read. I love getting a workout in before my little one wakes up.
I also love learning, so sometimes I jump straight into a course or program because I get in the zone, I may miss the workout!
Mornings are my time for clarity, connection, learning and movement.
What’s your favourite way to move your body?
I used to be a HIIT sweat-it-out style trainer, but as I’m getting older I’m trying to be kinder to my body. These days I’m more about Pilates, my rebounder trampoline, and hill walks or hiking.
Your favourite way to unwind?
A wine and a good chat with a friend, or putting my phone away and spending time with my son at the beach or skate park.
Your favourite quote?
“You don’t become what you want, you become what you believe.” — Oprah Winfrey
Over the last few years, I’ve really woken up to the power of our thoughts. I pay attention to the things I say—out loud and to myself—and the beliefs I carry. Anything that didn’t align with the life I wanted, I shifted.
As my beliefs changed, so did my reality. I’m incredibly passionate about this and really want everyone to understand this power.
Eco Cheeks is on a mission to bring healthier, low-tox living into everyday homes with products that feel good, do good and tread lightly. Learn more here.