Zero Waste Bathroom

The concept of a zero waste bathroom may be difficult to picture. But it is possible to replace the single use items you use every day with environmentally sustainable, reusable products. Some of these products may have a slightly higher upfront cost in comparison to the single use items you use, but others will save you money from the start rather than having a higher upfront cost. Even those with a higher upfront cost will typically end up saving you money over time.

We will break down each category into items which can be replaced with reusable (and in most cases non-plastic) options.

1. Cleaning. When it comes to cleaning your bathroom, there are many eco-friendly products available to replace items such as plastic toilet brushes, harsh chemical sprays, and disposable paper towels. These hemp and beechwood toilet brushes are a good way to replace plastic toilet brushes. They are even biodegradable, so they can be placed in compost after you are done using them. You can make your own cleaners to avoid harsh chemicals and avoid additional plastic containers ending up in landfills. There are glass spray bottles you can use. Alternatively, you could purchase plastic or reuse plastic spray bottles you already have. Microfiber cloths can be found pretty much anywhere you shop, and they are an excellent reusable alternative to disposable paper towels. If you prefer paper towels, there are also different forms of reusable paper towels available for purchase.

2. Bath & Body. Rather than purchasing body washes, shampoos, etc. that contain dangerous chemicals and are packaged in plastic containers, using zero-waste alternatives benefits both you and the environment. Bars of soap are better alternatives to body washes, the options available in my shop all have minimal packaging that is compostable/recyclable depending on your preference. You can also use my favorite recipe to make your own. Shampoo bars are a healthy, zero waste alternative to liquid shampoo. Lotion bars are a good alternative to bottled lotion and they are also more effective and healthier. Find out how to make your own here.

3. Oral care. Your dental floss and toothbrush could use an update in order to reduce your exposure to plastics every day. Much like the toilet brushes mentioned earlier, there are compostable wooden toothbrushes. There are also a variety of biodegradable flosses available for purchase which do not come in plastic containers. Toothpaste which does not come in a disposable tube is another option.

4. Personal hygiene. Deodorant, chap stick, razor blades, cotton pads, and q-tips can all be replaced with varieties which contain no plastic or are reusable. Perfect for a zero-waste lifestyle.

5. Feminine care. Yes, it is possible to replace items like pads and tampons, and there are plenty of reasons you should (involving harsh chemicals in/around the most sensitive part of your body). Items such as menstrual cups, period panties, and reusable pads protect both you and the environment.

Another thing to consider adding to your bathroom are items such as ethically sourced hygiene products and toilet paper without tubes.

There are so many alternatives to the items you use every single day which are not only better for the environment, they are also better for you. Consider making some of these changes in your life so you can experience the positive effects for yourself.