How to coexist in the bathroom

Note: This article is not the final word on this topic. We’ll keep updating this page as we come across more information. Links to specific products are not provided at present, but we will revisit this in future when we are in a position to make recommendations.

Here’s a few ideas for swaps you can make in the bathroom to get rid of some of the plastic and chemical nasties that you might not realise you have in there.

Tissues

The tissues you get at the supermarket have plastic in the boxes, making them more difficult to recycle, and often are made from virgin wood pulp, meaning trees were cut down to make them. Look out for alternatives that are made from a more renewable resource like bamboo.

Toilet paper

Similar to tissues, the toilet paper you get at the supermarket is wrapped in plastic and often made from virgin wood pulp, meaning trees were cut down to make them. Look out for alternatives that are either made from recycled paper, or a more renewable resource like bamboo.

Cotton buds

In a number of countries cotton buds with plastic stems have been banned, so you might find you have no option but to buy a more sustainable version. However consider whether you need them at all - as this article points out medical advice is to NOT stick them in your ears!

Body wash

Standard body wash can be full of chemicals (which, once they have been on your body, then end up going down the drain) and comes in a single-use plastic bottle. Plant-based body wash can be purchased in refillable containers, or you can skip the bottle entirely and get a soap bar (just grab a wooden soap dish or a natural soap rest to go with it).

Hand soap

The COVID-19 pandemic really brought to life the importance of hand washing so this is not something to skimp on. If you have a preference for liquid hand soap then try to avoid the single use plastic bottles with ingredients you don’t recognise and go for something plant or mineral-based that can be refilled. Or skip the bottle entirely and go for a soap bar (just grab a wooden soap dish or a natural soap rest to go with it).

Dental care

As with hand soap, dental care is something that is really important so sustainability has to be weighed against following the best dental advice. The most common brands of toothpaste, dental floss, and mouthwash do create plastic waste but it could be worthwhile seeking advice from your dentist before switching to natural alternatives. As an example, using a fluoride toothpaste is recommended but many natural alternatives don’t contain fluoride. If you use a manual toothbrush then consider swapping out your plastic one for a wooden alternative.