Actually tried splitting a bulk buy on paper towels last year. We just used a shared note on our phones to track who paid for what. Kept it simple and nobody felt stuck with stuff they didn't want.
Splitting costs sounds good in theory, but it can get messy fast. Someone always ends up with more product than they need or wants a different brand. Then you're stuck with a pile of stuff and figuring out who owes what. Seen it turn neighborly chats into real headaches.