Traveling can create a lot of unnecessary waste. Toiletry bags often fill up with small bottles and sample sized beauty products. While these are convenient, they are a burden on the environment. This article reviews the latest eco friendly toiletries on the market, and 8 easy ways to switch to eco friendly products and improve your sustainable travel packing list.
Making the switch to eco friendly toiletries is now easier than ever.
Table of Contents
What are Eco Friendly Toiletries?
In the mainstream toiletries industry, there are a lot of chemicals and plastic packaging used. This is neither good for your skin/hair or the environment.
So why are they mainstream?
- Synthetic and chemical products are cheap to make and can be stored/transported easily
- Plastic packaging is also cheap and great for storage/transportation
The problem is that all of the plastic packaging that has been used in the years is really staking up. Not only are most not recycled, but they also end up in places they should (like the ocean) where they break down into microplastics and enter the food chain.
Natural products are also better for you, the user. Your skin absorbs the products you put on it. What kind of effect are all the chemicals having on our bodies over the years?
Eco friendly toiletries are a good alternative for you and the planet!
There are a few main factors that attribute to an eco friendly product:
The ingredients:
- Vegan
- Palm Oil Free
- Organic & Natural Ingredients
- Cruelty-Free
The product packaging:
- Zero waste packaging or thoughtful design
How the products are made:
- Ethically sourced
- The impact on the environment (e.g are there significant amounts of chemicals used in the production. Do these chemicals get treated property or are they dispersed into local waterways?)
The Best Eco Friendly Toiletries to Pack in your Travel Bag
Swap these 8 eco friendly toiletries into your existing bag (once your usual products run out). Whether you are traveling to the Middle East, The Caribbean or North America, these items will improve your eco travels!
When staying in certain eco resorts, some eco friendly toiletries may even be provided. You can find where to book eco-accommodation, here. Check the lodging’s website or send them an email to enquire about their toiletries policy (some won’t allow the use of chemical products on-site as greywater is recycled on the grounds).
1. Opt for a Shampoo Bar or Natural Ingredient Shampoos
How quickly do you go through your shampoo bottle? Surprisingly, a staggering 80 billion plastic shampoo and conditioner bottles are discarded every year, contributing significantly to pollution and environmental degradation.
An easy eco friendly toiletries swap is to make the switch to zero waste shampoo. Shampoo bars are the obvious first choice – these compact wonders, free from plastic packaging, offer a host of benefits that extend beyond their eco-conscious design. Not only do they eliminate the problem of leaky bottles in your travel bag, but they also require minimal space, making them an ideal choice for those always on the go.
What’s more, shampoo bars outlast their liquid counterparts, providing the equivalent usage of three regular shampoo bottles, thus reducing your overall plastic waste significantly. They also make for a great eco friendly gift, promoting a sustainable lifestyle.
Suggested product: Ethique is our favourite shampoo bar brand as it’s vegan, 100% natural, zero waste, palm oil-free, cruelty-free, and ethically sourced. We love taking them on our travels, as we don’t have to worry about any spills! View the ethique range here.
If you’re specifically interested in stimulating hair growth, consider the Kitsch shampoo bar range, which has gained popularity on social media, especially their rice water protein bars known for their natural hair-nourishing properties.
However, if you prefer the familiarity of liquid shampoos, fear not; there are excellent alternatives in the market. Look for refillable shampoo and conditioner products, which allow you to enjoy your favorite haircare routine without contributing to plastic pollution.
Suggested product: Plaine Products offer a fantastic vegan refillable shampoo and conditioner set packaged in reusable aluminum bottles. These products are not only organic and hypoallergenic but also cruelty-free, embodying a commitment to both your hair and the planet.
View Plaine Products shampoo on Amazon | Earth Hero
2. Choose Organic Sunscreen that’s safe for the reefs
Reef safe sunscreen is a must for your sustainable travel packing list. The key ingredients for effective sun protection are non-nano Zinc Oxide and titanium dioxide. However, many conventional sunscreens contain harmful components like “oxybenzone” and “octinoxate,” which not only endanger coral reefs but also contribute to coral bleaching. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the impact of Avobenzone, Octocrylene, Octisalate, and Homosalate, prompting the need for further research.
When choosing eco friendly toiletries , specifically sunscreen, the less ingredients, the better. Look for brands that use natural ingredients as fillers, as these are biodegradable and will leave less of an impact on our Earth.
Suggested products: Raw elements have a great range of reef safe sunscreen. We love their tinted facial sunscreen that comes thoughtfully packaged in a convenient tin. Experience the perfect blend of sun protection and a touch of color, all in an eco-friendly package.
Another noteworthy choice in the realm of reef-safe sunscreens is All Good. This brand prides itself on natural ingredients, ensuring your skin stays nourished and shielded without harmful chemicals.
Sun Bum has gained popularity, however it is important to note that not all Sub Bum products are created equal. Opt for their mineral lotion which avoids the harmful ingredients listed above.
3. Make the switch to Natural Deodorant
Your body deserves the best, especially when it comes to what you put on your skin. Think about it – your sensitive lymph nodes are right beneath the surface of your armpits, and they certainly don’t want to absorb harmful preservatives and chemicals. Making the switch to eco-friendly toiletries might require an adjustment period, especially when it comes to natural deodorants, but the benefits are worth it. Your body will thank you for choosing products that are kind to both your skin and the planet.
Suggested products: Little Seed offers an excellent deodorant option in a zero-waste jar. Crafted from 100% natural ingredients, this deodorant hails from a small sustainable farm in Tennessee.
For those seeking a natural and organic deodorant, Fat and the Moon presents a fantastic choice. Packaged in a reusable glass jar, their deodorant is not only environmentally friendly but also sensitive skin-friendly. The sensitive version, featuring arrowroot powder instead of baking soda, ensures your underarms stay dry and odor-free naturally.
If you prefer the convenience of a stick deodorant, Each and Every offers a solution made with six clean ingredients and essential oils. This long-lasting deodorant is kind to sensitive skin and utilizes Dead Sea Salt instead of baking soda.
4. Use a Bamboo Toothbrush (or bamboo heads for your electric toothbrush)
Why? Because bamboo is biodegradable. Unlike plastic toothbrushes, which persist in landfills for around 500 years, bamboo toothbrushes naturally break down, returning to the Earth without leaving a lasting trace. Next time you find yourself without a toothbrush on a trip, choose a bamboo alternative packaged in recyclable materials, making a positive difference for our planet.
Suggested products: Isshah has a toothbrush with charcoal bristles (nylon based), and they are packaged with no plastic!
If you want to avoid the nylon bristles, Brush Naked has a 100% biodegradable toothbrush, with plant-based bristles made from corn and tapioca. Alternatively, Brush with Bamboo has a toothbrush with bristles made from 62% Castor Bean Oil and 38% nylon bristles. It is packaged in cardboard and a wrapper made from plant cellulose.
5. Try out a Plastic Free Toothpaste
Why? Toothpaste doesn’t need to be packed in plastic, the tubes are hard to recycle, and they can sometimes contain plastic microbeads that are harmful to the environment. There are plenty of plastic free toothpaste brands that use reusable and recyclable packaging, like glass jars, aluminum tubes, or metal tins. Not only is zero waste toothpaste more stylish, but it’s eco conscious.
Suggested products: hello toothpaste tablets offer unparalleled convenience, especially during travel. These refreshing whitening toothpaste tablets, flavored with real farm-grown peppermint, are compact and eco-conscious.
Want to try something different? With the Dirt, you can simply dip your damp toothbrush into a jar of tooth powder and brush as usual.
If you prefer a toothpaste tube, Davids toothpaste is packaged in a recyclable metal tube, and features clean ingredients. Plus, it comes with a metal tube squeezer, ensuring you can effortlessly roll and squeeze out every bit of toothpaste, making your eco-friendly choice both effective and efficient.
6. Natural and Organic beauty products
Making the transition to ethical and natural beauty products is a lifestyle change that your skin will thank you for. Low dose exposures to Parabens and Phthalates (found in commercial non-organic makeup) can add up over time. Check your labels and avoid some of the nasties that come in mainstream beauty products. There are all sorts of organic makeup brands out now – you can buy a mascara and eyebrow pencil made out of almond oil, cheek and lip tint made from beetroot pigment, and mineral based foundations. They look great, are safe for your body and the environment.
Suggested products: Elate Cosmetics takes pride in crafting their products with a strong commitment to ethical values and environmental sustainability. Their formulations consist of vegan, cruelty-free ingredients sourced ethically. Additionally, their eco-conscious approach extends to packaging – an impressive 95% of their packaging is reusable, recyclable or plantable, showcasing a harmonious blend of beauty and environmental responsibility. You’ll find a range of foundations and radiant bronzers to volumizing mascaras and an array of lipstick shades.
7. Invest in a Safety Razor
Unlike disposable razors, safety razors are designed to last a lifetime, minimizing plastic waste significantly. Crafted from durable materials like stainless steel, safety razors not only offer a close, smooth shave but also add a touch of sophistication to your daily routine, making it one of the best plastic free toiletries to invest in. Embracing a safety razor means saying goodbye to disposable plastic cartridges, what’s even better is that the razor blade refills are much cheaper to buy. Pair it with a shaving soap that comes in a tin container, for a really nice close shave!
Suggested product: If you’re considering the switch to a sustainable razor, look no further than The Leaf Razor. This safety razor stands out, featuring a pivoting head (which most safety razors don’t have), so it helps you get a smooth and close shave.
Additionally, the refills are fully recyclable, making The Leaf Razor a responsible choice for both your grooming routine and the environment.
8. Essential Oils
One of the most important items in my eco friendly toiletries bag are my Doterra Essential Oils. They have a wide range of emotional and health benefits, from enhancing sleep, to improving mood, aiding inflammation and pain relief. You can use them as mosquito repellents, sinus clearers, headache relievers, a tummy pain soother, among so many other uses. Try mixing some frankincense oil with Rosehip oil for an amazing anti-aging night serum! Use tea tree, lavender and peppermint oil as a mosquito repellent (they don’t contain any of the nasties like DEET that can be harmful to your body)! You can even use them to make your own organic cleaning products. DoTERRA are the highest quality oils we’ve found (and we use them a lot!).
9. Try out a Menstrual Cup or Period Underwear
When it comes to eco-friendly toiletries, it’s important to also consider exploring sustainable period solutions. Menstrual cups, made from medical-grade silicone, provide a reusable alternative to disposable tampons and pads. They not only significantly reduce waste but also save you money in the long run. On the other hand, period underwear, crafted with highly absorbent, moisture-wicking fabric, offers a leak-proof and comfortable experience. Both options are not just environmentally friendly but also empower you to embrace your menstrual cycle with confidence and care for both your body and the planet.
Suggested products: I’ve tried out both the cup and the underwear, and both are great options. The THINX Hi-Waist Period Underwear are super comfortable and absorbant, and the Bambody underwear line is also a popular choice.
There are plenty of menstrual cups on the market, the most important factor to consider is getting one that is the right fit for you. I’ve tried both the diva cup and the pixie cup, both being good choices, and have also purchased a menstrual cup steamer to help sterilize and clean.
10. Wooden Hairbrush and Plastic Free Hair Ties
Upgrade your daily grooming with eco-friendly alternatives like a wooden hairbrush and plastic-free hair ties. Wooden hairbrushes, crafted from sustainable materials, not only feel gentle on your scalp but also contribute to reducing plastic waste. Pair it with plastic-free hair ties made from organic cotton, natural rubber, or bamboo, and you have a guilt-free way to style your hair.
Suggested products: The Gainwell paddle hair brush is made out of bamboo, and has bamboo bristles. It’s a great brush for detangling, and will leave your hair smooth and tidy.
Kooshoo are high quality plastic free hair ties, made from certified organic cotton and 100% sustainably sourced, fair trade natural tree rubber
11. Make the switch to Reusable Cotton Rounds and Bamboo Cotton Swabs
Do you use makeup wipes or cotton rounds to clean your face each day? The waste can really add up. Reusable cotton rounds are great because, well, they are reusable! They are easy to wash, you can just toss them in your laundry in a delicates bag. They will also save you money in the long run! If you like using cotton buds for makeup application and removal, switch to bamboo cotton buds. Featuring a bamboo stick instead of a plastic one, they will be able to biodegrade over time.
Suggested products: These reusable cotton rounds come in black, and are ideal for removing your makeup. Each pad has a velvety soft side (for eyes and lips) and the other side is used for application. It comes with a bamboo holder for storage, and a mesh laundry bag for washing.
Clean skin club have 100% biodegradable swabs made from bamboo and organic cotton.
12. Opt for a Natural Washcloth
Another simple but impactful switch is reconsidering the materials of our washcloths. Traditional synthetic fibers used in many washcloths can be detrimental to the environment due to their longevity and contribution to waste. For a greener choice, consider incorporating washcloths made from agave fibers, sisal, or hemp in your shower regimen. These options are not only crafted from natural, plant-based fibers, ensuring they are biodegradable, but they also offer a gentle touch, making them skin-friendly.
Suggested product: Transform your shower experience with the remarkable benefits of natural loofahs! These unique sponges, cultivated organically on resilient vines, are renowned for their gentle yet effective exfoliating properties. By meticulously removing dead skin cells from the surface, loofahs not only unveil rejuvenated, smoother skin but also optimize hydration levels, allowing your skin to absorb skincare products more efficiently.
How to be Eco Friendly in your hotel room
- Be mindful of your water and energy footprint
- Reduce your air-conditioning use
- Take shorter showers
- Avoid unnecessary washing and drying and opt-out of room service
- Turn lights off when not in use
- Unplug your electronics when not in use
- Carry solar-powered travel chargers
- Reduce toilet paper usage. Is there a bidet that you can use?
- Avoid using the toiletries in the hotel room by bringing your own sustainable toiletries for travel
- Say no to plastic water bottles and carry your own filtered water bottle
- Ask if the hotel has a recycling program, if not urge them to create one and bring your recyclable waste with you.
- Be prepared and have your own eco friendly alternatives to plastic
Are Eco Friendly Toiletries Ethical?
Ideally, and eco friendly beauty products will be ethically made. But not necessarily.
In many cases, full disclosure of material sources and production facilities is not readily available. So, the focus on sustainable toiletries is their environmental impact (minimise plastic packaging and chemical use).
Advantages of eco friendly products
- you can save money in the long run by investing in reusable products
- they are healthier for you and the environment
- they have reusable or biodegradable packaging
- you can reduce your plastic waste
Disadvantages of eco friendly products
- higher cost initially
- can be difficult to find when travelling
Do you have any favourite sustainable toiletries? Let us know in the comments!
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Vivien de Greef is a co-founder of The Dharma Trails and a passionate advocate for sustainable living and slow travel. Her unique background in Occupational Therapy enriches her approach, blending well-being with environmental consciousness to inspire eco-friendly travel worldwide.
Lifestyle:
Originally from Brisbane, Australia, Vivien embodies the essence of a sustainable lifestyle, integrating her professional insights from mental health and occupational therapy into everyday living. Her approach to life is all about balance and sustainability, whether it’s through her travel choices or daily habits.
Writing Focus:
On The Dharma Trails, Vivien specialises in creating content that encourages an eco-friendly approach to travel. She explores themes such as:
- Sustainable travel destinations
- Eco-friendly living tips
- Slow travel experiences
- Conservation efforts globally
Interesting Points:
- Hometown: Brisbane, Australia
- Expertise in regions: Caribbean, California, and Australia
- Travel style: Slow and Sustainable
- Professional background: Occupational Therapy
- Passionate about bars and local cuisine
- Has been traveling since 2015
Connect:
Expertise:
Vivien’s background in Occupational Therapy and her work in mental health provide a deep understanding of human well-being. Her experiences, including a significant period in Madagascar providing occupational therapy, inform her comprehensive approach to sustainable travel, emphasising health and environmental preservation.
Travel Insights:
- Favorite Travel Experience: Witnessing the breathtaking sunrise over Baobab Alley in Madagascar.
- Where I’ve Lived: Australia, Madagascar, California and the Caribbean.
- Travel Tip: Open up google maps in satellite view to find hidden secret beaches.
Need More?
For further insights into Vivien’s travels, sustainable tips, and more personal tips, follow her journey on The Dharma Trails where every path tread is a step towards sustainability.
Hi Laura,
Thanks for your comment. We’ll take a look and have a think about it.
Cheers
Thanks for putting together this eco-friendly toiletries guide! I love that this guide makes it easy for people to make sustainable swaps. I really like the plastic-free hair ties!