Lose a Little Water Weight

Image by I, Malene, CC BY-SA 3.0

In the last few years, the eco-friendly household and beauty products industry has exploded. We here at Go Green Hilliard are not interested in promoting any one company, but we would like to encourage everyone to research the many, many options out there!  Soaps, laundry detergents, toothpastes, and shampoo can all provide more Earth friendly options in content and packaging.

Perhaps the most surprising ingredient raising a household products’ carbon footprint?

Water!

Water is heavy and adds often unnecessary bulk to household products like laundry detergent and shampoo. This increases packaging size and weight, as well as transportation and energy costs — often unnecessarily.

I switched to a set of shampoo and conditioner bars last year, and I recycled my last large plastic bottle of body wash for me and my kiddos. I haven’t looked back! It was a little odd, admittedly, rubbing a bar of “soap” through my hair. However, after trying few kinds I found one that worked great for me, and I love it. I’ve done the same with my toothpaste, in the laundry room, and with our soaps in the bathroom. I buy dehydrated products sent in easily recyclable or compostable packaging that can be mixed with water in reusable dispensers, or, when I have the time, get raw ingredients in bulk and make my own products to reduce packaging.

Finding what worked for me was a little pricey, however. If possible, ask your friends if they’d be willing to split new products and their cost among your group. Everyone can take a little for themselves to see what works. Check out local, small business options on nearby or on Etsy as well as larger companies to see what meets your needs. 

If you haven’t already, please explore the many great options that have come onto the market, and maybe you can find more Earth Friendly Options for your family!