In recent years, I’ve become increasingly aware of the importance of making sustainable choices in my everyday life. One area that often goes overlooked, but which holds significant potential for reducing our ecological footprint, is the bathroom.
I’ve discovered that by switching to eco-friendly products in the bathroom, I can not only help to protect the planet but also enjoy a more natural and healthy lifestyle.
When I first started exploring sustainable bathroom products, I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised to find a wide range of products that make a positive impact on the environment.
From biodegradable materials used in toothbrushes and loofahs to natural cleaning solutions free from harsh chemicals, these products show that it’s definitely possible to maintain a green bathroom by making small changes without sacrificing quality, convenience, or aesthetics.
In this article, I’ll be sharing some of my favourite eco-friendly bathroom products, along with the benefits they provide both for the planet and for our personal well-being. By making small, conscious changes in our daily routines, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future and pave the way towards a greener, healthier world.
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Eco-Friendly Bathroom Products
Sustainable Shampoo and Conditioner Bars
My sister gifted me with some shampoo and conditioner bars last Christmas, which have changed my shower routine for the better!
are sustainably made, using natural ingredients, and create significantly less plastic waste than traditional liquid shampoos and conditioners.
On top of being eco-friendly, some trustworthy brands like offer high-quality formulas that leave my hair looking and feeling better than it has in years.
Organic and Natural Body Wash
When it comes to body washes, I’ve found that opting for organic and natural products is not only better for the environment but also for my skin.
These formulas include plant-based ingredients, which are gentler and more sustainable than harsh chemicals. You’d be surprised what all the toxic chemicals we put on our body with the usual shower gels does to our skin.
Bamboo Toothbrushes
Switching to a bamboo toothbrush has been an easy way to lessen my impact on the environment.
, meaning they won’t contribute to the massive plastic problem our planet faces. Plus, they work just as well on your pearly whites as traditional plastic toothbrushes, making the switch simple and effective.
Menstrual Cups or Period Panties
I’m a huge fan of and reusable – the bonus is that they’re a fantastic eco-friendly alternative to disposable sanitary products.
Another sustainable choice is , which are great for reducing waste while also being a comfortable and effective option for those who menstruate.
Environmentally Friendly Deodorants
Traditionally, deodorants come in plastic containers, contributing to the plastic waste problem. To combat this, I’ve started using environment-friendly alternatives like natural deodorants in cardboard packaging or refillable metal containers.
option has helped me minimise my plastic usage in the bathroom, while still keeping me fresh and odour-free with the incredible scents they offer.
Water Usage and Greywater Systems
Being mindful of my water usage has become an essential part of creating a more sustainable bathroom. To conserve water, I make efforts to take shorter showers and turn off the tap when lathering up.
I’ve also been researching some greywater systems, which recycle water from baths, showers, and sinks, using it for tasks like watering the garden. This helps minimise wastage and can potentially save a significant amount of water.
While it’s a little difficult when living in an apartment, I’m excited to put this plan into action once I move into my house.
Reducing Plastic Waste in the Bathroom
According to the UN Environment Program, the beauty products we use can contain as much plastic as the packaging they come in. Do we really know what’s in our face masks, moisturiser or shampoo?
Reusable and Refillable Containers
In my quest to create an eco-friendly bathroom, one of the first changes I made was replacing disposable plastic containers with reusable and refillable ones.
I’ve switched to for my shampoo and conditioner, which not only look stylish but also help reduce my plastic waste. I’m also using metal tins for body lotions and creams – they’re durable and use recyclable materials, unlike plastic packaging.
Biodegradable and Recyclable Products
Another significant change I’ve made is incorporating biodegradable and recyclable products into my bathroom routine. Instead of disposable plastic razors, I now use a with a metal handle, which lasts a long time and produces less waste.
Here are some other eco-friendly swaps I’ve made:
- Toothbrush: I’ve replaced my plastic toothbrush with a bamboo one, an excellent biodegradable alternative.
- Cotton rounds: I now use for makeup removal rather than disposable makeup wipes. These are made from sustainable materials like bamboo fibres and organic cotton.
- Toilet paper: I’ve switched to , reducing my impact on deforestation and helping save trees.
For an even greater impact, I’m exploring options like , which offers refillable cleaning products in dissolvable tablets. This not only eliminates plastic waste but also reduces residue and the need for space-consuming packaging.
By making these simple swaps in my bathroom, I’m doing my part in reducing plastic waste and leading a more eco-friendly lifestyle.
Sustainable Bathroom Textiles
Organic and Fair Trade Cotton Towels
When I shop for bath towels, I choose organic cotton ones which are either Fair Trade or Textile Exchange certified. Organic cotton is grown without harmful pesticides that can damage the environment and affect our health.
Fair trade ensures that the farmers and workers who produce the cotton are paid fairly and work in safe conditions.
My preference for organic towels is not only because they’re better for the environment, but they’re also more gentle on my skin since they’re made from natural materials.
Hemp Bath Accessories
Incorporating hemp into your bathroom accessories is another great way to make your bathroom more eco-friendly as it’s made out of sustainable material.
Hemp plants require less water and fewer pesticides than conventional crops. Plus, they grow quickly and can be harvested multiple times a year.
Some of the hemp products you can choose are bath mats, shower curtains, and even bath poufs. Besides being eco-friendly, hemp products are durable and long-lasting, making them a great addition to any sustainable bathroom.
Global Organic Textile Standard Certification
To ensure the quality and sustainability of the bathroom textiles, I always look for Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) certification. GOTS is an internationally recognised certification that guarantees the textiles are made from organic fibres and follow strict environmental and social criteria.
This certification helps me feel confident about the eco-friendly bathroom products I bring into my home.
By choosing sustainable bathroom textiles like organic cotton towels and hemp bath accessories, you can take steps towards a healthier and more environmentally friendly lifestyle. It’s a small change, but one I believe can make a significant impact in the long run.
Eco-Friendly Toilet and Cleaning Essentials
Sustainable Toilet Paper Options
I’ve been exploring various sustainable toilet paper options and found some excellent choices. One such option is , which is made from fast-growing, renewable bamboo instead of trees.
By choosing eco-friendly options, we can reduce our impact on deforestation and encourage sustainable practices in the industry.
Bidets
I’ve had a bidet in my bathroom since I moved into this apartment, but wasn’t exactly sure about using it to begin with. However, bidets provide a gentle and hygienic cleansing experience, using water instead of paper.
This not only helps in saving trees but also reduces the amount of waste we generate.
Underfloor Heating
Another sustainable component you could incorporate into your bathroom is underfloor heating.
This energy-efficient heating system evenly distributes heat across the floor, reducing the need for radiators or space heaters. It’s a great way to keep your bathroom warm and cosy while being mindful of the environment.
Environmentally Friendly Cleaning Products
For cleaning my bathroom, I’ve made the move over to eco-friendly cleaning products. These products are made from plant-based, biodegradable ingredients, which means they’re less harmful to aquatic life and break down more easily in the environment.
When shopping for eco-friendly cleaning products, look out for sustainable brands and certifications such as Ecolabel or Leaping Bunny.
Experimenting with making my own cleaning solutions using ingredients like lemon, vinegar, and baking soda has also been an interesting learning curve and a way to cut down on chemicals and plastic packaging!
Avoiding Harmful Ingredients in Bathroom Products
Natural and Organic Personal Care Products
As a consumer who cares for the environment as well as my personal health, I prefer to use natural and organic personal care products.
These products often contain plant-based ingredients, which have reduced environmental impact compared to those that use synthetic materials. They’re also more likely to be gentler on sensitive skin, making them a great choice for me.
When shopping for personal care products like shampoos and conditioners, I look for certification labels such as or Ecocert. These certifications ensure that the products contain a certain percentage of organic ingredients and adhere to strict environmental standards.
Vegan and Cruelty-Free Options
Being an advocate of ethical consumerism, I try to opt for vegan and cruelty-free products, which don’t contain animal-derived ingredients or support animal testing.
While some popular brands still test on animals or use animal-derived ingredients like palm oil, there are many fantastic alternatives available.
Several organisations, such as Leaping Bunny and Cruelty-Free International, offer certification programs to help consumers identify cruelty-free products and those made with vegan ingredients.
Moreover, I make sure to check the list of ingredients and look for responsible plant-based alternatives like sustainable packaging.
Some of my favourite vegan and cruelty free brands are:
Identifying Toxic Ingredients in Products
In my quest to choose eco-friendly bathroom products, I avoid harmful ingredients that pose risks to my health and the environment.
Some common ingredients include SLS (sodium laureth sulfate), parabens, formaldehyde, and triclosan. Found in many conventional body washes, shampoos, conditioners, and other personal care products, these ingredients can cause skin irritation, pollution, and even hormonal disruptions.
To mitigate their effects, I focus on the following points:
- Read labels carefully: I always read product labels to identify and avoid potentially harmful ingredients.
- Choose fragrance-free options: Synthetic fragrances may contain undisclosed chemicals that could harm the environment or my skin.
- Opt for biodegradable formulas: By choosing biodegradable personal care products, I minimise my contribution to water pollution.
By making conscious choices, I can ensure that my bathroom routine is not only beneficial for me but also gentle on the environment.
Additional Eco-Friendly Bathroom Ideas
Incorporating Plants and Vintage Design
In my quest for a more eco-friendly bathroom, I’ve realised that adding plants not only enhances the aesthetics but also improves the air quality.
Plants like ferns, spider plants and peace lilies thrive in humid environments and require minimal care.
Vintage design, on the other hand, allows me to shop for second-hand items, reducing waste and giving a new lease of life to preloved items.
The combination of plants and vintage design creates a space that feels refreshing as well as sustainable.
Water Conservation Techniques
To further improve the eco-friendliness of my bathroom, I recommend exploring various water conservation techniques. These may include:
- Low-flow showerheads: Replace your regular showerhead with a low-flow one, which uses significantly less water without compromising water pressure.
- Dual-flush toilet: This type of toilet offers two flushing options—using less water when possible, thus saving gallons of water each day.
- Underfloor heating: This energy-efficient option not only keeps the bathroom warm and inviting but also reduces the need for heated towel rails.
PIN FOR LATER!
Incorporating these eco-friendly bathroom ideas has made my daily routine more sustainable while also creating a pleasant, relaxing environment.
