Answers

Short answers to the questions shoppers ask about labels, claims and price comparisons, with the public sources we rely on named in each one.

• How do you compare toilet paper price per sheet?Compare toilet paper fairly by price per sheet: divide the pack price by rolls times sheets per roll, and watch how double and mega rolls are counted.
• Is bamboo toilet paper septic safe?Bamboo toilet paper is not automatically septic safe. Learn how to read the label, what the claim means, and when to ask a septic professional.
• What does free and clear mean on laundry detergent?Free and clear usually means a detergent leaves out added dyes and perfumes. Learn what the phrase does not promise and how to check the ingredient list.
• What does PFOA-free mean on cookware?PFOA-free means one specific chemical was not used in making a nonstick coating. It does not mean the pan is free of all PFAS. Here is how to read the claim.
• How often should you replace a toothbrush?The American Dental Association advises replacing a toothbrush about every 3 to 4 months, sooner if the bristles fray. Here are the signs and the exceptions.
• What is a refillable cleaning concentrate?A refillable cleaning concentrate is a small amount of product you dilute with water in a reusable bottle. Learn how to compare cost and mix it safely.
• What does FSC certified mean?FSC certified means a wood or paper product is tied to forests managed to Forest Stewardship Council standards. Learn the three labels and how to verify.
• What does EPA Safer Choice mean?The EPA Safer Choice label marks products whose ingredients meet the program's criteria. Learn what it covers, what it does not, and how to read the mark.
• What does compostable mean on packaging?Compostable packaging is made to break down in a composting system, but whether it does depends on local facilities. Here is how to read the claim.
• What does biodegradable mean on labels?Biodegradable means a material can be broken down by microbes, but the label alone does not say how fast or where. Learn what the FTC Green Guides expect.
• How do you compare laundry detergent price per load?Compare laundry detergent fairly: divide the shelf price by the loads on the label, then adjust for concentrate versus regular and HE use.
• What does fragrance-free mean compared with unscented?Fragrance-free and unscented are not the same. Learn how to read the label and the ingredient list so you know what is actually in the product.
• What are PFAS?PFAS are a large group of synthetic chemicals used in nonstick coatings and other products. Learn what they are and where to read the official information.
• How do you read a unit price label?A unit price label shows the cost per ounce, per count or per other unit. Learn how to read it and how to avoid common comparison mistakes.
• What does the ADA Seal of Acceptance mean?The ADA Seal of Acceptance shows a dental product has been evaluated by the American Dental Association. Here is what the seal covers and how to use it.
• How can you tell if a sale price is real?Check the unit price, compare stores, look at price history and know the sale calendar. Plus what the FTC says about regular price and was price claims.
• What does hypoallergenic mean on a label?Hypoallergenic on cosmetics has no federal standard or definition, per the FDA. Here is how to read the claim and what to check instead.
• What does non-toxic mean on a label?Non-toxic has no single regulatory definition for most consumer products. Learn what regulators say, how art supply labels work and how to read claims.
• What does recycled content mean?Recycled content means material recovered from waste. See how the FTC Green Guides treat the claim and what pre- and post-consumer mean.
• What does GOTS-certified organic cotton mean?GOTS is a textile standard covering organic fibers and processing criteria. Learn what the label tells you and how to verify a certificate.
• Can you recycle diapers?Used disposable diapers do not go in curbside recycling. Learn why, what the label words mean, and what to check before choosing a lower-waste option.