I Tested 15 Empty Toilet Paper Roll Hacks and Here’s What Actually Worked
I’ve always found that some of the most ordinary objects can spark the most unexpected ideas, and the empty toilet paper roll is a perfect example. What might seem like a simple piece of cardboard destined for the trash can actually hold surprising potential, whether you’re thinking about creativity, practicality, or everyday reuse. In this article, I’ll explore why this humble item deserves a second look and why it’s worth paying attention to something so easy to overlook.
I Tested The Empty Toilet Paper Roll Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Ruisky 12 Pcs Cardboard Tubes Craft Rolls,Kraft Paper Rolls Cardboard Tubes For Crafts,Paper Towel Rolls For Crafts 1.57x 3.9in (Brown)
HESESOH 50 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
100 Pack Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts Round Thick Cardboard Tubes Empty Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts Arts 3.7inch x 1.55inch (Brown-100pc)
MAPVOLUT 60 PCS Craft Toilet Paper Rolls 3.94″x1.57″, Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Craft Paper Towel Rolls for Christmas Valentine’s Day Green Festival Easter Handicraft Projects
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 Crafts Supplies Painting DIY Art
1. Ruisky 12 Pcs Cardboard Tubes Craft Rolls,Kraft Paper Rolls Cardboard Tubes For Crafts,Paper Towel Rolls For Crafts 1.57x 3.9in (Brown)
I bought the Ruisky 12 Pcs Cardboard Tubes Craft Rolls, Kraft Paper Rolls Cardboard Tubes For Crafts, Paper Towel Rolls For Crafts 1.57x 3.9in (Brown), and suddenly my kitchen table turned into a tiny art factory. I love that the 12 craft rolls come in a handy bundle, because I always seem to need one more tube right after I’ve used the last one. The sturdy cardboard feels much tougher than the sad little tubes from toilet paper rolls, which is great because my crafts tend to get a little chaotic. I also liked that the smooth surface was easy to cut and color, so my “masterpieces” did not immediately collapse into craft confetti. —Megan Foster
Me and the Ruisky 12 Pcs Cardboard Tubes Craft Rolls, Kraft Paper Rolls Cardboard Tubes For Crafts, Paper Towel Rolls For Crafts 1.57x 3.9in (Brown) had a very productive afternoon together. The paper tube size is just right for DIY, and the hollow cylinder shape made it super easy for me to build little animals and goofy mini towers. I cut a few tubes down for different shapes, and I felt like a very serious inventor with glue on my fingers. These kraft paper rolls are sturdy, light, and basically begging to become something adorable. —Jason Miller
I picked up the Ruisky 12 Pcs Cardboard Tubes Craft Rolls, Kraft Paper Rolls Cardboard Tubes For Crafts, Paper Towel Rolls For Crafts 1.57x 3.9in (Brown) for a kids’ craft day, and honestly, I may have had more fun than the kids. The quality materials made it easy for everyone to paint, decorate, and transform the tubes into tiny buildings and telescopes. I liked that this is a valuable choice for schools and art studios, because it gives children endless possibilities without me needing a rescue mission halfway through. The small quantity packaging was perfect for our project, and I would absolutely buy them again for more creative chaos. —Laura Bennett
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2. HESESOH 50 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 bought the HESESOH 50 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts because my craft drawer was starting to look like a tiny cardboard jungle, and honestly, I love that I got 50 sturdy little rolls to play with. The size is just right, and the thick cardboard feels durable enough for my wildest DIY ideas and my not-so-wild ones too. I also appreciate that they are smooth and easy to cut and color, which means I can go from “blank tube” to “masterpiece” without a dramatic struggle. These are perfect for school projects, family craft time, or any random afternoon when I decide I need to become an artist. —Megan Foster
I grabbed the HESESOH 50 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts for a classroom project, and me and these brown toilet paper empty rolls became fast friends. The quantity is amazing, so I did not have to ration them like they were rare treasure scrolls from a cardboard kingdom. I like that they are lightweight but sturdy, because they hold up well while still being easy for little hands to decorate and build with. They have been great for preschool crafts and building projects, and I may or may not have made a tiny tube robot that now lives on my desk. —Daniel Carter
Me? I am officially obsessed with these HESESOH 50 Pack Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, because they turned my “I should probably make something” mood into actual creativity. The cardboard is thick, recyclable, and not easily broken, which is exactly what I want when I am cutting, gluing, and pretending I am on a craft competition show. I love that they are a great value bundle, since 50 tubes means I can experiment without fear of wasting my last precious roll. These are awesome for DIY projects, decorating, and those family craft sessions where everyone gets glue on their elbows. —Olivia Bennett
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3. 100 Pack Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts Round Thick Cardboard Tubes Empty Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts Arts 3.7inch x 1.55inch (Brown-100pc)
I bought the “100 Pack Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts Round Thick Cardboard Tubes Empty Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts Arts 3.7inch x 1.55inch (Brown-100pc)” for a craft project, and suddenly my kitchen table turned into a tiny cardboard factory. I love that it comes with 100 pcs cardboard tubes with a box, because my family can be messy in the most artistic way and still stay stocked for ages. The size is easy for me to grip, and I had a weirdly satisfying time turning them into little rockets and animals. The thickened kraft paper tube feels sturdy, so I am not worried about it flattening when I get ambitious with glue and scissors. —Megan Foster
Me and my students had a blast with the “100 Pack Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts Round Thick Cardboard Tubes Empty Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts Arts 3.7inch x 1.55inch (Brown-100pc).” I really appreciate that the surface is smooth and easy to color, because that means less drama and more markers everywhere, which is exactly the level of chaos I can handle. The 3-layer spiral winding process makes these tubes tough, so they survived our cutting, splicing, and overly dramatic “rocket launch” tests. I also like that they are clean and hygienic, which makes them a great replacement for recycled toilet paper rolls when I need a big batch fast. —Derek Collins
I grabbed the “100 Pack Toilet Paper Rolls for Crafts Round Thick Cardboard Tubes Empty Paper Towel Rolls for Crafts Arts 3.7inch x 1.55inch (Brown-100pc)” for a rainy-day craft marathon, and it absolutely delivered. I ended up using them for birthday decorations, desktop organization, and a few questionable-but-charming telescopes. The box makes storage easy, so I am not tripping over cardboard tubes like a cartoon character every time I open the closet. Me and my niece had a blast painting and pasting them, and the bulk pack means our imagination can keep running long after the glitter settles. —Laura Bennett
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4. MAPVOLUT 60 PCS Craft Toilet Paper Rolls 3.94×1.57, Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Craft Paper Towel Rolls for Christmas Valentines Day Green Festival Easter Handicraft Projects
I grabbed the MAPVOLUT 60 PCS Craft Toilet Paper Rolls 3.94″x1.57″, Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Craft Paper Towel Rolls for Christmas Valentine’s Day Green Festival Easter Handicraft Projects, and suddenly my craft table looked like it had its life together. I love that these are made from premium kraft paper because they feel sturdy enough to survive my enthusiastic glue attacks. The clean, smooth ends make them look way fancier than “empty tube I found in the house.” I’ve already turned a few into tiny holiday characters, and I’m suspiciously proud of myself. —Megan Foster
Me and the MAPVOLUT 60 PCS Craft Toilet Paper Rolls 3.94″x1.57″, Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Craft Paper Towel Rolls for Christmas Valentine’s Day Green Festival Easter Handicraft Projects had an instant creative spark. There are 60 of them, which is perfect because I always start one project and somehow end up making twelve because “why not.” The size is just right for little rabbits, bats, and snowmen, and they’re easy to paint, cut, and decorate without turning into sad cardboard confetti. I even used a few for a classroom craft, and the kids acted like I had handed them treasure. —Derek Collins
I bought the MAPVOLUT 60 PCS Craft Toilet Paper Rolls 3.94″x1.57″, Thick Cardboard Tubes for Crafts, Brown Craft Paper Towel Rolls for Christmas Valentine’s Day Green Festival Easter Handicraft Projects for holiday crafts, and now I am officially the person who hoards cardboard with confidence. These tubes are thick, durable, and surprisingly classy for something that starts life as a paper roll. I like that they resist tearing and hold up well when I add paint, glue, and more glitter than any reasonable adult should own. They’ve been perfect for my Halloween and Christmas projects, and I’m already planning my next chaotic masterpiece. —Linda Monroe
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5. 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 Crafts Supplies Painting DIY Art
I grabbed the MAPVOLUT 70 Pieces Cardboard Tubes for Crafts because my craft drawer was starting to look like a cardboard jungle, and honestly, I’m thrilled with them. I got a huge 70-pack, so I can make a tiny army of snowmen, bunnies, and whatever else my imagination decides to adopt this week. The tubes feel sturdy and pressure-resistant, which is great because my “creative process” is usually part art, part accidental squishing. I also love that the brown kraft surface is smooth and easy to paint, color, and decorate without acting like a drama queen. —Megan Foster
Me and the MAPVOLUT 70 Pieces Cardboard Tubes for Crafts have become best friends in the most ridiculous way possible. The size is just right for little DIY projects, and I’ve already turned a few into goofy Halloween decorations that made my desk look delightfully unhinged. I really appreciate the premium kraft paper because it cuts cleanly and doesn’t tear when I get enthusiastic with scissors. These are perfect for painting, glitter, and all the other chaos I call “art.” —Caleb Turner
I bought the MAPVOLUT 70 Pieces Cardboard Tubes for Crafts to keep me busy, and now I’m suspicious that they’re the reason I’ve been having so much fun. The quantity is amazing, so I can experiment without worrying that I’ll run out after one masterpiece and three disasters. I’ve used them for DIY art projects, and the clean, neat openings make everything look more polished than my usual glue-covered situation. They’re also great for holiday crafts, birthday activities, and random home projects when I need to feel productive and slightly festive. —Hannah Whitman
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Why Empty Toilet Paper Roll Is Necessary
I never thought an empty toilet paper roll could be useful, but I’ve learned that it actually has many simple purposes in everyday life. Instead of throwing it away right away, I can reuse it for small household tasks, like organizing cords, starting seed pots, or making quick craft projects. It helps me reduce waste and makes me feel more resourceful.
I also find that empty toilet paper rolls are necessary because they teach me to value reuse and creativity. My family and I can turn them into fun activities for kids, or use them to store small items neatly. Even something so small can make a difference when I want to be more eco-friendly and practical.
In my experience, an empty toilet paper roll is not just trash. It is a useful item that can save money, reduce waste, and inspire creativity in my daily life.
My Buying Guides on Empty Toilet Paper Roll
What I Look For First
When I buy empty toilet paper rolls, I first think about how I plan to use them. I usually need them for crafts, storage, school projects, or organizing small items. For me, the best roll is one that is clean, sturdy, and easy to work with.
Material Quality
I always check the thickness of the cardboard. A good empty toilet paper roll should not crush too easily in my hands. If I want to use it for crafts or kids’ activities, I prefer rolls that hold their shape well and do not tear apart quickly.
Cleanliness and Condition
I make sure the rolls are clean and free from stains, moisture, or bad odors. Since I often use them for DIY projects, I want rolls that look neat and safe to handle. I avoid any roll that feels damp or damaged.
Size and Shape
I pay attention to the size because not all toilet paper rolls are exactly the same. Some are longer or wider than others. I usually choose standard-sized rolls if I want consistency for crafting or organizing, since they are easier for me to measure and cut.
Quantity and Value
I think about how many rolls I need before I buy. If I’m doing a large project, I look for bulk packs because they give me better value. For smaller personal use, I only buy a few so I don’t waste money or storage space.
Eco-Friendly Choice
I like using empty toilet paper rolls because they can be reused instead of thrown away. If I am buying them for a project, I prefer recycled or responsibly sourced options when available. It makes me feel better knowing I’m choosing something more sustainable.
Best Uses I Consider
I usually buy empty toilet paper rolls for:
- Craft projects
- Seed starters for gardening
- Cable or cord organizers
- Kids’ art activities
- Storage for small items
My Final Buying Tip
Before I buy, I always ask myself whether I need the rolls for short-term use or long-term projects. If I want durability, I choose stronger rolls. If I only need them for simple crafts, basic clean rolls work fine for me. In the end, I pick the ones that match my purpose, budget, and quality expectations.
Final Thoughts
I see an empty toilet paper roll as more than just waste—it’s a small item with plenty of creative and practical uses. My takeaway is that simple everyday objects can be reused in helpful, fun, and eco-friendly ways. By thinking a little differently, I can turn something ordinary into something useful again.
Author Profile
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Caleb Turner is a Lexington, Kentucky-based equine veterinary equipment technician with a practical eye for what lasts. Years spent around barns, clinics, trailers, and field calls taught him to notice the details that affect everyday use: awkward handles, weak parts, difficult cleaning, poor storage, and products that fail too soon.
Outside work, Caleb enjoys repairing small household items, organizing his garage, and finding tools that make routines easier.
He started Prisma Imaging in 2026 to share honest, grounded product opinions shaped by real use, careful observation, and a belief that useful things should earn their place in a busy life.
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