Have you ever paused to look around your bathroom and noticed just how much plastic is everywhere? Almost everything from toothbrushes to shampoo bottles, razors to makeup comes wrapped in layer after layer of plastic. And most of it isn’t kerbside recyclable, which means it ends up in the trash, destined for a landfill (or worse, the ocean). It’s surprising how much single-use plastic is hiding in plain sight.

Our bathrooms are  the most wasteful room in the house, but here is the good news… it is also one of the easiest places to start your plastic-free journey. Let’s dive into five of the most-loved bathroom swaps from our community, all designed to help you reduce plastic waste without compromising quality, comfort, or style.

1. The Easiest Swap: Toothbrush & Toothpaste Alternatives

If there’s one swap that’s quick, painless, and totally satisfying, it’s this one. According to the World Wildlife Fund, 3.5 billion toothbrushes are sold every year worldwide, since they’re not kerbside recyclable, they just hang around in landfill. Bamboo toothbrushes with compostable handles are a simple and stylish alternative. Just remember to snip off the nylon bristles before adding the handle to your compost or garden.

And while you’re at it, why not rethink your toothpaste too? Many conventional toothpaste tubes are made from mixed plastics that can’t be recycled. Instead, try toothpaste tablets, powders, tooth tonics or toothpaste in recyclable glass jars. They clean just as well, use natural ingredients, and come without all that plastic packaging.

2. Shampoo & Conditioner Bars

Australiansthrow away around 179 million empty bottles of shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, deodorant and other personal care productsannually according to the Australian Circular Economy Hub. That’s a lot of plastic for a product that really doesn't need it! Shampoo and conditioner bars are a brilliant alternative: they last longer, take up less space, use less water and come without plastic packaging. Plus, they’re travel-friendly, perfect if you hate those annoying airline liquid limits or your shampoo exploding in your bag. Learn more about shampoo bars and find the perfect one for your hair type here. 

3. Reusable Safety Razors

Ugh, disposable razors… they might seem convenient, but did you know that a study from The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that each year 2 billion disposable razors are tossed out in the US. That's more than 63 razors going into landfills every second. Switching to a reusable safety razor not only means less waste but also a better shave.

That's right, reusable razors are built to prevent ingrown hairs because they glide smoothly and cut hairs at skin level, unlike the single-use baddies. Our Go For Zero Shave Packs make this switch a breeze, they include a sleek reusable safety razor, replacement blades, and a 100% natural body soap bar. Watch this video here to learn all about our reusable razors.

4. Low-Waste & Refillable Makeup

Beauty lovers, this one’s for you! Every year in Australia, approximately 10,000 tonnes of cosmetic waste goes to landfill as stated by ABC News (yikes!). Luckily, brands like Aleph Beauty and Scoop Whole Beauty are changing the game with 100% natural, refillable and plastic-free makeup options.

Whether it’s refillable mascaras or foundation in glass or metal, these products prove you don’t have to sacrifice quality or style to be kind to the planet. Trust us, your makeup bag and your skin will thank you… so will future generations.

5. Plastic-Free Period Care

Here’s a fact that might surprise you: studies have found that annually in Australia, 300 million tampons and 500 million pads are sold, contributing to 45 billion period products are discarded worldwide each year.

Most conventional pads are made from up to 90% plastic, meaning they can take hundreds of years to break down. The good news? Zero-waste period products are growing in popularity with options that are even more comfortable, affordable, and earth-friendly. We love brands like Hey Zomi and Tom Organic, which offer everything from reusable menstrual cups and period underwear to organic tampons and pads. 

Start Small, Dream Big

Changing your bathroom routine doesn’t mean an overnight overhaul. Even swapping one or two products can add up to a huge reduction in plastic waste and a cleaner, greener home. Plus, these swaps mean fewer toxins on your skin, more durable products, and a sense of pride knowing you’re doing your bit for the planet.

Remember: Plastic Free July is about progress, not perfection. Every small step counts, and together, we can make a big difference—one bathroom swap at a time.

Lots of love,
Ellie