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5 Simple Steps to a Zero-Waste Bathroom

Environmentalists know that large-scale, revolutionary steps must be taken on local, state, federal, and global levels to heal our planet going forward. But, real change starts with all of us...

Environmentalists know that large-scale, revolutionary steps must be taken on local, state, federal, and global levels to heal our planet going forward. But, real change starts with all of us – being conscious consumers, making intentional choices for the planet, setting an example for others to follow, and educating them in the process. So, I’m here to outline easy steps you can take today towards a zero-waste bathroom.

The products found in bathrooms are rarely, if ever, recycled. They find their way to landfills or the ocean where they will continue to pollute the environment forever, after being used just once. Most people don’t know that a few bathroom swaps can prevent nearly 75% of your bathroom waste, and save you money in the process.

1. Simplify!

Go through your bathroom and get rid of everything you don’t use – scented lotions, extra hairbrushes, all the things that have been cluttering your space. Try to give them to friends or family who would want them. If they need to be thrown away, make sure to empty and clean the bottles so they can hopefully get recycled!

2. Swap Bottles for Bars.

There are numerous bar options for shampoos, conditioners, and body washes that are 100% zero waste! Most of them have many options to choose as far as your hair type or preferred scent. Constantly buying plastic hand soap adds up, opt for a bar instead.

3. Use a Bamboo Toothbrush.

Plastic toothbrushes take over 500 years to degrade, and they just become smaller plastic fragments that will continue to pollute the environment. We are advised to exchange our toothbrush every 3 months, meaning our lifetime footprint is nearly 1,000 toothbrushes. Buy bamboo instead, which is entirely biodegradable and sustainably grown!

4. Get a Safety Razor.

Plastic razors can never be recycled because the blades are hazardous for workersin recycling facilities. Not only are they polluting the environment, but they can injure marine life as well. Over the course of our lifetime, we will spend over $1,000 on razors. Investing in a safety razor for $12, made entirely of recyclable metal, will last you over 10 years. You only need to replace the blade every few months, which is also recyclable.

5. Buy Recycled Toilet Paper.

Recycled toilet paper is next to normal paper, and on average only $1.00 more expensive. For that extra $1.00, you are making a difference by supporting sustainable companies, supporting recycling, and not cutting any trees down in the process. All of it adds up!

Want to go above and beyond?

Use coconut oil for makeup remover, and lotion. Buy bamboo Q-tips if you can’t let them go entirely. Choose bamboo or wood for a hairbrush over plastic. Look up ethical make-up brands. Buy jewelry second hand. Get rid of the trash can in your bathroom entirely. And most importantly, teach others how to do the same when they ask questions after using your bathroom!

All of these changes will help shift us towards a sustainable economy that keeps the planet in mind, and help you minimize your waste.

Special thanks to our guest writer!

Carissa Cabrera | theconservationistcollective.com | @carissaandcoffee

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