Bathroom

Three types of products make up most of the plastic waste generated in a bathroom:  toothbrushes, razors and personal care products. In our book, we discuss the best ways to replace these items with safe plastic-free alternatives. Here are some suggestions for other key bathroom items…

SHOWER CURTAINS

Cheap shower curtains made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) are notorious for off-gassing hormone-disrupting phthalates and other noxious chemicals for weeks after their installation. PVC-laden shower curtains are made of flexible plastic, sometimes transparent, that has the look and feel of a thick plastic food wrap—plastic food wraps are also often made of PVC. And you can also recognize PVC from its recycling code #3, which may be on the shower curtain label. 

The best plastic-free shower curtain alternative we have found is hemp. Although more expensive than its plastic counterpart, a hemp shower curtain is naturally mildew and mold resistant up to a point. You must ensure your bathroom is well ventilated to allow the curtain to dry completely between use, and you should wash your curtain with vinegar immediately if you do see any mold developing.

Image credit : Parachute

 

TOILET BRUSHES

Plastic toilet brushes need to be disinfected frequently due to the disgusting pink scum that accumulates on the bristles of the brush after a few weeks of regular use. This pinkish substance is actually a bacterium called Serratia marcescens that is, fortunately, harmless. Because plastic is porous, the pink color does not seem to go away easily. As a result, you may feel the need to replace your toilet brush once a year.

Plastic toilet brushes often come with a plastic base holder. So when replacing the plastic brush, you must also replace the plastic holder which adds to the plastic load going to the landfill. 

Opt for a wooden toilet brush made with natural bristles. You can find stylish base holders made of wood with a ceramic plate to hold the dripping liquid. Such a set is more expensive than a plastic one, but you can replace only the brush instead of the entire set. At the end of its usable life, the brush can be used as kindling for a campfire.

Image credit : Redecker

 

TOWELS AND BATH MATS

Look for 100 percent cotton towels and bath mats. Polyester is often blended with cotton and makes the towel feel softer to the touch. Resist the temptation and instead use wool balls in your dryer to make your towels feel soft.

Image credit : Parachute