Kleenex Brand introduces biodegradable reusable paper towel

SOUTH KOREA – Yuhan-Kimberly, a joint venture between South Korea’s Yuhan Corporation and Kimberly-Clark,  has introduced innovative Kleenex-brand reusable paper towels, marking a significant step in sustainable household products. 

The Kleenex Biodegradable Reusable Dishtowel combines plant-derived cellulose and polylactic acid (PLA) with CJ Biomaterials’ PHACT A1000P, an amorphous polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) biopolymer from sugarcane. 

This 100% biobased nonwoven, produced by Eugene Hanil Synthetic Fiber, offers superior softness, strength, and multiple uses in homes and restaurants. 

KueYoung You, head of the innovation center at Yuhan-Kimberly, stated, “This new product delivers improved hygiene and convenience while also representing meaningful progress for the environment.” 

“As South Korea’s leading provider of personal care and hygiene products, we will continue promoting production and consumption that considers the environment while strengthening the global competitiveness of Korean household products.”

It fully biodegrades in compost, soil, marine environments, and home settings, without leaving persistent microplastics, and meets certifications from BPI, TÜV AUSTRIA, and KOTITI Testing.

Yuhan-Kimberly sought a binder for cellulose fibers that maintained production efficiency while passing strict microplastics tests. 

PHACT A1000P, fermented from renewable sources, integrated seamlessly into existing spunbond processes, enhancing durability without compromising speed or feel. 

The result eliminates common issues like stiffness or breakdown in traditional plastics.

This launch stems from a 2022 collaboration between Yuhan-Kimberly, a Yuhan Corporation and Kimberly-Clark joint venture, and CJ Biomaterials to commercialize PHA in hygiene products. 

The initiative targets diapers, wet wipes, packaging, and now reusable nonwovens to promote a circular economy through technological innovation. Initial developments emphasize high-performance materials blending PHA with plant-based cellulose and PLA.

Currently sold in South Korean supermarkets and online, the towels will showcase at INDEX 2026 (booth #2669), signaling broader market potential.

According to a report by Dataintelo, the global reusable paper towel market was valued at USD 2.8 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 6.1 billion by 2034, expanding at a CAGR of 9.0%, with bamboo reusable paper towels holding the largest product share at 38.4% and North America leading with 34.2% revenue share due to strong zero‑waste movements and retail infrastructure.

The biodegradable reusable paper towels combine sustainability, cost savings, and performance, positioning them as a key innovation in the shift toward greener home and personal care products.

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