8 Simple Bathroom Swaps to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

When it comes to reducing our carbon footprint, the bathroom often gets overlooked. Yet, making a few sustainable changes in this space can have a significant impact on the environment. Whether you’re a sustainability newbie or a seasoned eco-warrior, here are eight simple swaps you can make to create a greener, cleaner bathroom!

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1. Ditch the Liquid Soap and Switch to a Sustainable Bar Soap

Bar soap is making a comeback—and for good reasons! Unlike liquid soap, which often comes in plastic bottles, bar soap uses minimal packaging and requires less water to produce. It’s lighter and smaller, which means a lower carbon footprint during transport. Plus, it cleans just as effectively, smells amazing, and usually costs less. You can even find shampoo and conditioner bars that leave your hair feeling soft and fresh without the waste.

Eco Tip: When choosing bar soap, look for brands that use sustainable ingredients. My favourite sustainable brand is Faith in Nature, all their products are cruelty-free, natural, biodegradable, carbon-balanced, and come in 100% recycled packaging, and they smell amazing! New to the brand? Why not try this gift set as a treat for yourself or an amazing gift for someone special?

2. Upgrade to a Bamboo Toothbrush

Did you know that every plastic toothbrush ever made still exists today? It can take up to 500 years for a plastic toothbrush to degrade. Most people will use around 300 toothbrushes in their lifetime—imagine the waste! Switching to a biodegradable bamboo toothbrush is an easy, effective way to cut down on plastic. Bamboo handles can be composted, and many companies also offer biodegradable floss options, making them a much more sustainable option.

Eco Tip: If you prefer an electric toothbrush, consider using recyclable electric heads to minimize waste. Don’t know where to start? Try this 6-pack from The Little Eco Company, after you’ve used them just post them back (for free!) and they’ll recycle them, meaning nothing ends up in the landfill.

3. Say Goodbye to Wet Wipes, Try Sustainable Face Pads.

Wet wipes are a major environmental problem, causing 93% of sewage blockages in the UK. Even the so-called “flushable” ones don’t break down properly, leading to clogs and pollution. Instead, switch to reusable bamboo pads or a simple washcloth for makeup removal. For a more eco-friendly routine, try using micellar water or a cleansing balm with washable pads—they’re better for your skin and the environment.

Try this pack of 20 organic bamboo pads for only £6.99!

4. Opt for Recyclable, Biodegradable, or Reusable Packaging

The packaging of our bathroom products can be a big source of waste. Whenever possible, choose items that come in recyclable or biodegradable packaging. You can also buy products in bulk to reduce the amount of single-use plastic or visit refill shops where you can fill your own reusable bottles.

Eco Tip: Look for products that offer refills in recyclable or biodegradable pouches. This way, you reduce waste while still getting your favourite items!

5. Change Your Toilet Paper Habits

Did you know that toilet paper accounts for 15% of worldwide deforestation? Each roll requires about 169 litres of water and plenty of chemicals for processing. Opt for 100% recycled toilet paper or alternatives made from bamboo—a rapidly renewable resource that requires far less water and no harsh chemicals.

Eco Tip: To reduce waste, be mindful of how many sheets you use per visit. Small changes can add up over time! Try this 24-pack from Who Gives A Crap, it’s 100% recyclable and was voted the most sustainable toilet roll by The Natural Resources Defence Council.

6. Improve Your Bathroom Recycling

While most people are good at recycling in the kitchen, the bathroom often gets neglected. In fact, people recycle 40% less in the bathroom! Placing a small recycling bin in your bathroom can make it easier to dispose of empty bottles, tubes, and containers properly. Rinse out any leftover product and remove lids or pumps before recycling.

Eco Tip: Check if there are local recycling points for makeup products like mascara wands or lipstick tubes, as these often require special handling.

7. Shorten Your Shower Time

Did you know that in most households, 2/3 of water use happens in the bathroom? By reducing your shower time by just one minute, you can save up to 15 litres of water. Installing a low-flow shower head can cut your water usage in half without sacrificing pressure, helping you save on both your water bill and your carbon footprint.

Eco Tip: Challenge yourself to cut your shower time by a minute each day. Over time, this small change can make a big difference!

8. Swap to a Sustainable Safety Razor

If you’re still using disposable razors, consider switching to a more sustainable safety razor. These durable, long-lasting razors feature a metal handle with replaceable blades, drastically reducing plastic waste. Safety razors also provide a closer shave with less irritation. Pair your safety razor with a shaving soap bar instead of shaving creams, which often contain harmful chemicals.

Eco Tip: Properly care for your safety razor by drying it after use and replacing the blades as needed. You’ll enjoy a better shave and a product that can last a lifetime! This razor from King C. Gillette is perfect for beginners and comes with 5 replacement blades for only £10.

Small Changes, Big Impact

Making these simple swaps in your bathroom routine is an easy way to contribute to a healthier planet. It might seem like a small step, but collectively, these changes add up to a significant impact on reducing waste and conserving resources. So why not start today? The planet—and your wallet—will thank you!

Check out my other posts to discover more tips for sustainable living

Reference list BBC Earth (n.d.). 10 simple steps to a more sustainable bathroom | BBC Earth. [online] www.bbcearth.com. Available at: https://www.bbcearth.com/news/10-simple-steps-to-a-more-sustainable-bathroom [Accessed 10 Nov. 2024].

beec (n.d.). Eco Shaving 101: The Complete Guide to Eco-Friendly Shaving. [online] beeco. Available at: https://www.beeco.green/hub/eco-friendly-shaving/ [Accessed 10 Nov. 2024].