ckoplien@todaystmj4.com

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Turns out our sensitive bums are costing us the oldest trees.

I learned today that the older a tree is, the better it is for making super soft toilet paper.

Apparently, each sheet is a web of wood fibers, and fibers from old trees are longer, which produce a smoother and more supple web.  Recycled paper, and wood pulp from relatively younger trees, have shorter, "less comfortable" fibers.

So the next time you're enjoying some extra cushiony T.P., remember that the tree that gave its life for your tush's comfort was a senior citizen.

Here's the link to the story on msnbc.com:  http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/32997234/ns/us_news-washington_post/