Making Your Bathroom More Eco-Friendly: 6 Essential Tips

When it comes to reducing your ecological footprint, even the smallest changes can make a big difference. And when it comes to eco-friendly living, the bathroom is one area where you can really make an impact. From the toilet paper you buy, the amount of water you consume, the cleaning products you use, and more – there are a number of ways to make your bathroom more sustainable without doing a remodel, and here are 6 of the most essential ones to get you started.

1. Reduce Toilet Paper Use

The majority of toilet paper options in stores are not eco-friendly at all. They are heavily processed, come in plastic packaging, and use a lot of energy (most likely not the clean type either) to create. And while you may not be able to completely eliminate toilet paper from your life (and let’s face it, we all need it), there are ways to reduce your consumption and make more eco-friendly choices. For starters, you might want to look into bidet converter kits which can be easily installed on your existing toilet and significantly reduce the amount of paper you use. Another great eco-friendly toilet paper alternative is using recycled and compostable options that are unbleached, free from inks, dyes, and fragrances. Of course, the best thing you can do is to combine these two options.

2. Reduce Water Waste

Did you know that the average shower uses around 2.1 gallons of water per minute? That’s a lot of water, especially when you consider that the average person showers for around 8 minutes. So, if you’re looking to reduce your water consumption (and save some money on your water bill), then investing in a low-flow showerhead is a great place to start. These types of showerheads use around 1.5 gallons of water per minute, which can really add up over time. You can also save water by taking shorter showers, making an effort to only run the dishwasher and washing machine when they are full, and turning the tap off while you’re brushing your teeth.

3. Ditch The Disposables

When it comes to the bathroom, there are a number of disposable products we use on a daily basis without even thinking about it – from cotton balls and Q-tips, shampoo bottles, to floss picks and razor heads. And while they may be convenient, they are definitely not sustainable. So, if you’re looking to reduce your waste, then it’s time to ditch the disposables and switch to reusable options. For cotton balls and Q-tips, opt for reusable options made from bamboo or other sustainable materials. Shampoo and conditioner can be replaced with solid bars that last a lot longer, or you could invest in refillable containers to decant your liquids into. They are not only more eco-friendly, but they look better as well. There are also a number of reusable razor options on the market that can help you reduce waste (and save money in the long run).

4. DIY Hair Products

One of the best ways to reduce your waste is to make your own hair products. There are a number of recipes online for DIY shampoos, conditioners, and soaps that use sustainable ingredients and can be easily made at home. Not only are they better for the environment, but they are also usually better for your hair and skin as well. This way you’ll be able to create a shampoo that’s designed specifically for your hair type. For example, you could include ingredients like avocado oil for dry hair, or apple cider vinegar for oily hair. And if you’re not sure where to start, there are plenty of recipes and tutorials available online. Of course, it’s always best to make your shampoo from ingredients that are eco-friendly themselves.

5. Use Less Energy

Another great way to make your bathroom more eco-friendly is to use less energy. This can be done in a number of ways, such as using energy-efficient light bulbs, making sure your home is well insulated, and only running the heater when necessary. You can also save energy (and money) by keeping the water heater off unless you need it. In the summer, open the windows to let in natural ventilation rather than using air conditioning. And during the winter, close the doors to keep the heat in. If possible, let your hair air dry rather than using a hairdryer. Simply consider all the ways you use electricity in your bathroom, and try to come up with a more environmentally friendly alternative. This doesn’t mean you have to change your routine drastically or give up on the luxuries you enjoy – simply make small adjustments here and there where you can.

6. Use Non-Toxic Cleaning Products

The last tip for making your bathroom more eco-friendly is to use non-toxic cleaning products. Many of the cleaning products we use contain harmful chemicals that can be released into the air, and ultimately end up in our water supply. So, if you’re looking to green your cleaning routine, then it’s time to switch to non-toxic options. There are a number of eco-friendly cleaning products on the market, or you could even make your own. Vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice are all great natural alternatives to toxic chemicals. Simply mix them together in a spray bottle and you’re good to go. Not only are they better for the environment, but they’re also usually cheaper.

Making small changes in your bathroom can have a big impact on the environment. By following these tips, you can make your bathroom more eco-friendly without making major changes or sacrificing the luxuries you enjoy. And remember, every little bit counts.