Making small changes in our daily routines can have a significant impact on our planet. If you want to reduce your environmental footprint in small ways, the bathroom is a great place to start. By adopting the following product swaps, you can make your bathroom routine more sustainable.
Bamboo Toothbrushes
Unlike plastic toothbrushes that take hundreds of years to decompose, bamboo is biodegradable and grows rapidly, making it a sustainable choice. When the toothbrush gets too old, all you have to do is toss it in your compost bin! Additionally, bamboo toothbrushes are just as effective at cleaning your teeth, so you don’t have to compromise on oral health to be eco-friendly. Just make sure you buy a bamboo toothbrush with biodegradable bristles—not all of them have these.
Compostable Dental Floss
Continuing with the theme of oral care, swapping traditional plastic floss for compostable dental floss is a great change. Made from natural materials like silk or bamboo fiber, compostable floss performs just as well as its plastic counterpart. Plus, many companies offer compostable dental floss in reusable tubes, further reducing your plastic usage.
Eco-Friendly but not Vegan
Silk floss is a compostable alternative to nylon floss, but it’s not vegan, as it comes from silkworms that are usually boiled. If you’re vegan, go bamboo.
Safety Razors
Say goodbye to disposable plastic razors and hello to safety razors. There are many reasons to switch to double-edge safety razors, the main one being their sustainability. Not only do safety razors offer a closer shave, but they also last significantly longer. The blades are recyclable, and the razor itself can last a lifetime with proper care. There is a learning curve to using this type of razor, but you’ll eventually experience smoother shaves and less shaving waste, making the swap worthwhile.
Shampoo and Conditioner Bars
Liquid shampoos and conditioners typically come in plastic bottles and contain a lot of water, contributing to plastic waste and higher carbon footprints. Shampoo and conditioner bars, however, are concentrated, packaging-free, and water-saving. They last longer than their liquid counterparts and are free from harsh chemicals, making them kinder to your hair and the planet. You can find these products everywhere now, including in major grocery stores. However, purchasing from smaller businesses dedicated to environmental stewardship is a safer bet and will get you a higher-quality product.
Reusable Makeup Wipes
Removing makeup with disposable wipes or cotton pads creates unnecessary waste. Opting for reusable makeup wipes made from materials like bamboo or microfiber offers a sustainable alternative. They’re gentle on the skin, effective at removing even waterproof makeup, and easily washable and reusable, reducing your daily waste. What’s not to love about that?
Adopting product swaps to make your bathroom routine more sustainable is a step toward a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Plus, eco-friendly products tend to be better for your health, making these swaps beneficial in more than one way. Your changes don’t have to be big to be meaningful, so start in your bathroom and see where it takes you!
