In recent years, more Filipinos have become conscious of their environmental impact, leading to a growing zero-waste movement. One of the easiest places to start reducing waste is in the bathroom, where single-use plastics and harmful chemicals often dominate.
Rosenda “Back to Nature,” a local advocate for sustainable living, shares simple yet effective swaps to help Filipinos transition to a zero-waste bathroom. Here are 10 easy changes you can make today:
1. Bar Soap Instead of Liquid Soap:Most liquid soaps come in plastic bottles, while bar soaps often use minimal or biodegradable packaging. Choose natural, locally made soaps like those from “Rosenda Back to Nature” to reduce plastic waste. ( https://ph.shp.ee/EBE1kQy )
2. Bamboo Toothbrushes:Traditional plastic toothbrushes take hundreds of years to decompose. Switch to a bamboo toothbrush, which is compostable and just as effective. Brands like Bamboology PH offer affordable options.
3. Shampoo Bars Over Bottled Shampoo:Shampoo bars last longer and eliminate the need for plastic bottles. Rosenda recommends ‘Sukli’ or “The Naked Shop’s shampoo bars”, which are gentle on hair and the environment.
4. Safety Razors Instead of Disposable Razors:Disposable razors contribute to plastic waste. A stainless steel safety razor is a one-time investment that lasts for years with replaceable blades. Check out The Eco Shift for durable options.
5. Reusable Cotton Rounds:Instead of disposable cotton pads, switch to reusable cotton rounds made from organic fabric. These can be washed and reused, reducing waste. EcoNest PH offers affordable sets.
6. DIY or Package-Free Toothpaste:Toothpaste tubes are hard to recycle. Try toothpaste tablets (available at The Good Choices PH) or make your own with baking soda, coconut oil, and peppermint essential oil.
7. Menstrual Cups or Cloth Pads:Disposable sanitary products create tons of waste. Menstrual cups (like Sinaya Cup) or cloth pads (from Hiya PH) are eco-friendly, cost-effective, and healthier alternatives.
8. Refillable Containers for Toiletries:Instead of buying new bottles, look for stores that offer refill stations for liquid soaps, lotions, and other toiletries. The Naked Shop and EcoSoul PH have refill options in select locations.
9. Natural Loofah Over Plastic Sponges: Plastic loofahs shed microplastics. Switch to a natural loofah or a sisal fiber scrub, which are biodegradable and just as effective for exfoliation.
10. Homemade Cleaning Solutions:Commercial bathroom cleaners often come in plastic bottles and contain harsh chemicals. Make your own using vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils for a non-toxic, zero-waste alternative.
Final Thoughts! Transitioning to a zero-waste bathroom doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By making small, mindful swaps, Filipinos can significantly reduce their plastic waste and environmental footprint. As Rosenda “Back to Nature” emphasizes, every small change counts toward a cleaner, greener future.
Which of these swaps will you try first? Share your zero-waste journey in the comments! For more sustainable living tips, follow Rosenda “Back to Nature” on social media or visit local eco-shops near you.
Refer to these links:FB page: ( https://www.facebook.com/share/15GVPqpsrF/ )Tiktok Shop: ( https://vt.tiktok.com/ZSScd2xrC/?page=TikTokShop )Shopee: ( https://ph.shp.ee/N5ywpcS )
