10 Easy Zero-Waste Bathroom Swaps You Can Start Today
by Martina Schwarz
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Your bathroom might be small, but it’s often one of the biggest sources of single-use plastic waste. From shampoo bottles to disposable razors, the average household throws away hundreds of non-recyclable bathroom items every year.
The good news? Making a few zero-waste bathroom swaps can dramatically cut your footprint - without sacrificing convenience. Here are 10 easy swaps to get you started.
1. Refillable Handwash Instead of Single-Use Plastic Bottles
Traditional liquid handwash is shipped in bulky plastic bottles that are thrown away after use. A better alternative is plastic-free handwash refills, like those from Blackmarket. Their concentrated formula ships without water, which makes it lighter, eco-friendly, and 100% refillable.
👉 Want to know more? Read: Plastic-Free Handwash: Why Refillable Options Are the Future

2. Bamboo Toothbrushes Instead of Plastic
Swap your plastic toothbrush for a bamboo one that can be composted (bristles often need to be removed). This is one of the simplest eco-swaps you can make.
3. Safety Razors Instead of Disposable Razors
Stainless steel safety razors last a lifetime and only need blade replacements, making them both sustainable and cost-effective.
4. Refillable Shampoo & Conditioner Bars
Bars or refill stations eliminate the need for multiple bottles and reduce plastic waste.
5. Reusable Makeup Remover Pads
Ditch cotton pads for washable fabric rounds. They save money and reduce waste.
6. Menstrual Cups or Period Pants Instead of Pads/Tampons
These alternatives are healthier, longer-lasting, and massively reduce single-use waste.
7. Toilet Paper Wrapped in Paper
Opt for recycled or bamboo toilet paper that comes wrapped in paper packaging, not plastic.
8. Glass Jars Instead of Plastic Storage
Store bathroom essentials like cotton buds or bath salts in glass jars for a sustainable and stylish touch.
9. Compostable Cotton Buds
If you need cotton buds, choose ones with bamboo sticks that are compostable.
10. Low-Waste Cleaning Products
Switch from bleach in plastic bottles to refillable or concentrated cleaning solutions.
Conclusion
Creating a zero-waste bathroom doesn’t require an overnight overhaul. Start with a few swaps—like choosing refillable handwash—and you’ll quickly see the difference.
If you want to dive deeper into how handwash refills reduce your carbon footprint, check out:
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The Hidden Carbon Footprint of Liquid Soap (and How Refills Change the Game)
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Bar Soap vs. Liquid Handwash vs. Refills: Which Is Most Sustainable?
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