The bathroom was one of the most difficult areas to tackle as it is usually full of products in plastic bottles or tubs. Here is tip #1: use up what you have. I realised as I was starting to replace all my products with plastic free alternatives that I still had some things in the cupboard that I hadn't used up. It would be a big waste of resources not to use what we already have at our disposal so make sure you gradually swap what runs out, even though it can be hard not to get excited about new products.
Here is a comprehensive list of all the solutions we found worked for us:
- Solid rather than liquid
These include soap, shampoo, conditioner and even deodorant. Not only solid options come free of plastic packaging, they also last a lot longer than liquid alternatives.
All of these I purchased from Lush as they come completely un-packaged and you can buy small metal tins to store them in. I was already familiar with the shop so this was my first choice, however there are lots more options out there.
- Dental hygiene
I was already using an electric toothbrush which uses a limited amount of disposable plastic compared to a traditional toothbrush. I have a bunch of bamboo toothbrushes I use for me and my partner when we travel.
In terms of toothpaste, I am trying organic toothpaste that comes in a glass jar by georganics. There are diffrerent kinds and I am currently using a charcoal based one. It gets the job done but doesn't froth up like conventional toothpaste. I think I'll try a different version next time.
I still have vasts amounts of dental floss from earlier so I will take my time going through those. Once they are all finished I will try some bamboo fiber alternatives that georganics also makes.
All these products I found on Waste Not Store.
- Toilet paper
Toilet paper is usually made from trees and packaged in plastic wrap for ease of transport and shelf stocking. In order to avoid this, we started using Who Gives A Crap, they use recycled office paper to make their toilet paper, package it in paper and cardboard boxes, and donate 50% of their profits to charity. The paper wrappers look really good and I use them from gift wrapping for birthdays or Christmas.
- Hair colour
For years I have been using solid henna from Lush as it comes un-packaged. I used to wrap my head up in clingfilm while I was waiting for the colour to take effect. Since we've given up clingfilm, I have tried using a shower cap that I can reuse and wrapping my head in tin foil to keep my hair from falling down (I have really long hair).
- Make up
For the moment, I am still using up what make up I still had since I don't wear it very often and I very rarely buy it for myself. For facial cleaning and make up removal, I've started using compostable alternatives.
Some cotton buds are made with plastic sticks which cause great damage to sea creatures if they end up in our waterways. I have opted for ones with bamboo or card sticks. Also, I am using cotton wipes for make up removal as they can be washed in the washing machine and reused.
I have yet to find a good cleanser that doesn't come in a plastic bottle. I will let you know when I do. If you have any suggestions, don't hesitate to contact me.
- Toilet brush
When it was time for our toilet brush to be replaced, I did some research to find a compostable alternative. I found one made of wood and plant-based bristles from Boobalou.
This is my list of solutions for a plastic free bathroom. If there is anything you think I've missed, you can send me a message and I'll do my best to respond.
Hi,
I have the W7 make up remover cloth, it is brilliant. It is reuseabke, you just need warm water. It does come in plastic packaging however. I have written to them about it’s composition, as concerned about microfibres. I’ll let you know what they say.
You asked about plastic free cleanser. I mostly just use warm water and a face cloth or I use distilled witch hazel from boots (has to be yhis as it’s alcohol free), homemade, distilled rose water from my mum’s rose garden, or coconut oil.
Thanks for the suggestions, as I mentioned I rarely wear make up hence I’m still using ones I already have but I will keep in mind for when they need replacing.
I’ve started using Who Gives a Crap too and I am very happy. Price is similar to supermarket if not cheaper and the funky paper packaging it’s nice 🙂