26 Best Zero Waste Products: Eco-Friendly Essentials You Need
Around the world, more people are gaining interest in living sustainably. This has led to people looking for the best zero waste products to help them live in a more environmentally-friendly way.
Since these products are easily accessible online, it can be overwhelming to choose the best zero waste products that you actually need.
After all, the main point about living zero-waste is to stock up on the essentials, on the evry day items which this article will highlight.
Before we deep dive into the subject, let us look into what zero-waste products mean, why they are important and how they help you make better choices. We will also make a list of all the best zero waste products and details on the best zero waste shampoo on the market.
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Summary of the best zero waste products:
What Is A Zero-Waste Product?
Zero-waste refers to the practice of committing to waste prevention; whether it’s for a household item, food or even beauty products.
This means that each zero-waste product is optimally used to ensure that no remnants of the products end up accumulating in landfills, going to the incinerators or polluting the ocean.
This is a step further taken than reusable or sustainable items, it means that mostly every part of the product is reusable and can go on to have a second life.
It is important that throughout the life cycle of best zero-waste products that this concept is implemented – from material sourcing to manufacturing and packaging.
Here are some of the best zero-waste products that you can have at home (and on-the-go):
Hair Products:
- Plastic-Free Hair Ties
- Shampoo and Conditioner Bar
- Organic Honey Hair Mask
- Natural Bamboo Massage Hair Brush
Toiletries:
- Deodorant
- Fluoride-Free Chewable Toothpaste Tablets
- Bamboo Toothbrush with Charcoal Infused Bristles
- Activated Charcoal, Plant-Based Wax Dental Floss
- Bamboo Safety Razor
- Natural Whole Loofah
- Reusable Silicone Menstrual Cup
- Toothbrush Travel Kit
Beauty Products:
- Organic Lavender Eye Pillow
- Natural Beeswax Lip Balm
- Reef Safe Sunscreen
- Vegan Nail Polish with Plant-Based Bristles
- Natural Beeswax Moisturiser
- Plastic-Free Bamboo Mascara
- All-Natural Makeup Remover
Household Products:
Baby Products:
List Of All The Best Zero-Waste Products
We have come up with a list of the best zero-waste products that you can start incorporating in your daily life.
Here are the categories and a brief guide on where to do your shopping (online):
- Hair Products
- Toiletries
- Beauty Products
- Household Products
- Baby Products
Hair Products
There is an extensive range of sustainable hair products, but here are some handpicked favourites of the best zero-waste hair products:
- Hair Ties
Hair ties are commercially made using non-biodegradable elastic, which is bad news for the environment. Fortunately, raising awareness on climate change has given rise to the invention of zero-waste hair ties. What and how can elastic be sustainable you may ask, isn’t it plastic?
Sustainable elastic actually comes from rubber trees, when the bark of the natural rubber trees are tapped to extract the sap, a sticky white substance is collected which makes it a renewable natural elastic source that is ultimately biodegradable.
These organic cotton hair ties come in a pack of 5, and are also available in different colour variations. Your hair is securely tied without risk of hair tugging and will last you a long time. The elastic is made from plants and not plastic, making it biodegradable and preventing it from ending up in a landfill.
These hair ties are also painless for your kiddies, preventing hair from being pulled and slipping off.
- Shampoo and Conditioner Bar
Bottled liquid shampoo may be easier to use, but some of the chemicals used in these shampoos bring negative impacts to the environment.
This is why shampoo bars are introduced – it is plastic-free, zero-waste and the concentrated formula means it thoroughly nourishes your hair. The idea and approach to using shampoo and conditioner bars means you as an individual are already taking a conscious approach to your hair care routine.
The Moroccan argan shampoo and conditioner bar combo, is suitable for all hair types. It’s also free from SLS and parabens, so you will have guilt-free hair wash every day (or every other day, depending on your hair care routine).
- Hair Treatment
A hair care routine isn’t complete without a potent hair serum to seal in the nutrients in your crowning glory. Although hair serum could instantly transform your hair from dull to shiny, prolonged use may backfire the benefits.
Instead, opt for hair oils or treatments with natural ingredients, such as this organic honey hair mask which is packed with essential oils and non-toxic ingredients.
Conditioning Hair Mask
This hair mask is also Paraben Free, Sulfate Free, Cruelty Free which is a huge plus point.
Besides that, this paraben free hair oil works wonders to bring out your hair’s best, whereas the organic hair growth balm is perfect for all hair types.
Black Castor Oil for Dry Hair
- Hair Brush
We can all agree that it is high time we start using hairbrushes that are beneficial for both our hair and the environment.
This handmade organic bamboo hairbrush comes with an easy-grip handle and is made to soothe the scalp and reduce hair frizz.
Toiletries
There will be no more worry over mounting plastic waste in the bathroom with these selected best zero-waste products:
Deodorant
Deodorant is often formulated with synthetic, artificial chemicals such as aluminium, which may be bad for our skin. Additionally, it is also packed in non-biodegradable packaging, making it not-so-eco-friendly.
Check out this all-natural deodorant with an aluminium-free formulation and comes in plastic-free packaging, guaranteed to keep you free from sweat and fresh with its added natural scent.
Or, you can take a step further and incorporate a deodorant bar into your daily routine, such as this compostable deodorant bar, which is 100% waste-free.
Toothpaste
Dental hygiene is made easier (and kinder for the environment) with these chewable toothpaste tablets, which form a paste hence reducing water consumption.
Toothbrush
Use your waste-free toothpaste tablets with the eco-friendly bamboo toothbrush, which are biodegradable once it is completely used.
Storing your bamboo toothbrush in this unique bamboo travel case completes your zero waste dental kit set!
Dental Floss
We are accustomed to synthetic dental floss packed in plastic packaging, both of which are not recyclable. The good news is that we can avoid this by going for a zero-waste option.
This charcoal-infused bamboo floss, is vegan-friendly with activated charcoal. Made from strong fibers and coated with plant-based candelilla wax, this flos is also biodegradable. It comes in a pack of 3, which includes a reusable glass bottle helping you reduce your plastic waste, and is easily refillable when you run out of floss.
99 Yards, Plant-Based Candelilla Wax
Bamboo Razor
Shaving products are not exempted from contributing to the global plastic waste problem. This can easily be tackled by swapping to zero waste razor.
This bamboo safety razor, comes with replaceable stainless steel blades, to ensure a smooth shave.
If you are looking for something extra, this rose gold safety razor, gives shaving a luxurious feminine touch.
- Loofah
Instead of using commercial loofah made from non-biodegradable, consider changing to using a natural loofah. Loofah is a sponge-like plant which can exfoliate dead skin cells all over the body.
These natural loofah, for example, are also compostable, so nothing goes to waste once they are fully utilized.
Menstrual Cup
Tampons and pads are known to fill up landfills and pollute the environment. They also take a long time to decompose, as most sanitary pads and tampons are made from non-biodegradable materials.
On the other hand, a menstrual cup, such as this one, is made from medical-grade silicone and is BPA-free, ensuring that you are well protected during the time of the month.
Zero-Waste Travel Kit
On the surface, being constantly on-the-go could make sustainable living difficult. However, these zero-waste travel toiletries are travel-friendly, so you can bring them on your travels without any problem (and waste!)
This toothbrush travel kit, comes with its own eco-friendly case and dental floss. Add on this pack of toothpaste tablets, and a pair of the solid shampoo and conditioner bar, makes a complete zero-waste travel kit.
Natural & Sulfate Free
Beauty Products
- Organic Eye Pillow
After a long day, the last thing we want to get into is an elaborate self-care routine.
These Organic Lavender Eye Pillow, is a quick, on-the-go treatment for tired eyes and to promote better sleep. It is versatile, so it can be used either cold or warm to enjoy the relaxing benefits from natural lavender buds.
Lip Balm
Similar to our hair, our lips deserve the best nourishment from natural ingredients. This Natural Lip Balm, is plastic-free, as it comes in zero-waste packaging. Remember to add it to your compost pile upon disposal.
Hand-filled – Blood Orange Mint
Hand-filled – Island Coconut
Sunscreen
Save some space in your luggage and liquid allowance by swapping to this zero-waste reef safe sunscreen, which does not only protect you from harmful UV rays but is also reef-safe and cruelty-free.
Another option is this mineral sunscreen with SPF 50, the importance of mineral sunscreen is that it sits ON your skin and does not absorb into your bloodstream.
There is also a gentle and moisturising sunscreen for babies between 0-3 months.
And here’s a mineral sunscreen suitable for babies between 6-12 months.
- Nail Polish
Traditional nail polish is formulated with toxic chemicals, raising questions to the availability of eco-friendly options.
This vegan nail polish, is made from 100% natural and plant-based materials and comes with a plant bristle application for easy use.
- Moisturiser
Apart from shampoo and conditioner, moisturisers are also available in a zero-waste bar form.
This Natural Beeswax Lotion Bar, is made from natural beeswax and is lovingly handmade from scratch to ensure that your skin gets direct nourishment, sans the water that comes in a commercial body lotion.
Mascara
This plastic-free bamboo mascara, is formulated with natural ingredients using Amazonian clay making this the first and only “smart” mascara. What makes is smart is that it intuitively finds and treats your unique lash concerns, delivering the benefits you need and volume you desire.
The Amazonian clay instinctively lengthens, conditions, repairs and replenishes dry and brittle lashes.
This mascara helps to keep lashes intact, healthier, and stronger by preventing lash loss and promoting lash health. Its special ingredients also balances, nourishes, hydrates, replenishes and repairs to promote healthy, more voluminous lashes and while preventing lash loss. Tarte is a vegan and cruelty-free company, helping their values to be part of everyone’s beauty regime.
Another award-winning mascara is this 2-in-1 Mascara and Lash Primer, helping to boost, define and volumise your lashes.
Makeup Remover
Removing makeup has never been more natural. This all-natural makeup remover, makes it possible.
Made with Organic Aloe Vera and Witch Hazel, gentle on your skin and reducing breakouts, is cleansing and hydrating.
Vegan, Paraben Free and Cruelty-Free, this make-up remover is kind on the environment, as their saying goes, ‘Safe for you, and good to the Earth’.
& Witch Hazel
And if you prefer a cleansing balm, here’s a cleansing balm using Japanese skincare secrets, to help nourish and brighten your complexion.
Makeup Remover
BONUS: Best zero-waste makeup brands which guarantee a guilt-free makeup session.
Honest Beauty – Clean, cruelty-free, and conscious makeup and skincare, with health and wellness as a foundation and the belief that it’s our responsibility to leave the world better than when we found it.
Hyaluronic Acid + Avocado Oil in Off Duty
e.l.f – 100% cruelty-free, vegan and natural cosmetics. No animal testing is conducted and e.l.f prohibit their products from being sold in China where animal testing is compulsory.
Long Lasting
Mad Hippie – Natural, cruelty-free skincare and makeup, that’s 100% vegan and sustainable. Hippies with a mission, they believe that we are stewards of the planet and must treat it with love and respect.
Household Products
Here are some of the best zero waste products that you can start using in the kitchen:
Beeswax Wraps
Out with cling film and saran wrap, and in with the Beeswax Food Wrap from Bees Wrap. Coated in beeswax, pine resin and jojoba oil, this versatile cling film-alternative will ensure that your food is kept fresh for longer, reducing food waste and keeping your plastic usage and waste to a minimum!
Detergent
Natural laundry detergent such as Mrs Meyers are made without the all the toxic ingredients such as the following ammonia, chlorine, parabens, phthalates, formaldehyde, artificial colorants, phosphates or petroleum distillates which ultimately end up in the environment at the waterways. Using natural ingredients and essential oils derived from plants.
Dish Soap
Liquid dish soap is manufactured with a high amount of water and plastic, contributing to plastic waste. Consider changing to a plastic-free, dish soap bar made from natural ingredients that comes with a cedar tray. Expect squeaky clean dishes without all the waste!
We highly recommend pairing the soap with this coconut fibre brush set with plant-based, biodegradable bristles.
Tote Bag
Tote bags are versatile – they can be used for multiple occasions and never go out of style. These heavy duty Reusable Tote Bags from Bee Green has you covered for grocery runs up to 50lbs!
50lbs Heavy Duty, 12 Pack with Zipper Bag
For those of you looking for a day-to-day tote bag as a shopping bag then look no further!
Baby Products
Raising a newborn baby is made easier (and less messy) when you have these best zero-waste products:
Reusable Baby Wipes
Exchange microplastic-filled, non-biodegradable baby wipes with these bamboo towels. They are eco-friendly, continuously reusable and gentle on a baby’s skin.
Baby Balm
Babies deserve only the best zero-waste products, including this all-purpose calendula balm, which is not only suitable for all ages but is also packed with nourishing ingredients such as organic beeswax, essential oils and vitamin E.
This ensures that your baby’s skin remains moisturised throughout the day.
- Cloth Diaper
It is estimated that in the US, an average baby (below one year old) uses about 2500 disposable diapers. This amounts to a worrying pile of non-biodegradable diapers in landfills.
Consider switching to using reusable diapers, such as these 6-pack cloth diapers. They are machine washable and are layered with absorbent bamboo, so babies are kept dry and comfortable.
Best Zero Waste Stores
Enjoy a no-fuss, sustainable shopping experience from these select online zero-waste stores.
- Online Stores – Zero Waste MVMT, EcoRoots, Greenzla, Etee, No Tox Life
- Where to get zero-waste products for your day-to-day cleaning – Life Without Plastic, Lazy Coconuts, Dropps
What Is The Best Zero Waste Shampoo?
Global demand for shampoo bars has risen, thanks to the awareness of harmful chemicals in commercially bottled-shampoo. Shampoo bars are undoubtedly the best zero waste shampoo.
They come in plastic-free packaging. Here are some of the brands carrying the best zero waste shampoo on the market:
Does Zero Waste Make A Difference?
For a lot of reasons, including best zero-waste products in our daily life makes a huge difference, especially if we are talking about the long-term effects.
Less Purchases
Firstly, by committing to making zero-waste purchases, we are actually reducing the number of products that we buy and store in our homes.
This leads to a decrease in product consumption, as we spend less money on material purchases and gain more space in our homes for necessities.
They’re Zero-Waste!
Secondly, best zero-waste products are created to be high-quality, reusable products with an extended life cycle. As they do not produce any waste (or at the very least are compostable), which in turn will result in much lesser waste being transported to the landfills and minimal to no pollution.
Waste-Free Planet
In an ideal world, picture a city without landfills due to minimal to no waste contributed by its residents.
Additionally, a clear azure ocean wherein marine life thrives and the ecosystem is preserved. In the forest, wild animals’ habitat is protected, as forests are conserved rather than being cleared to make way for industrial activities.
Play Our Part
However, it is also important to remember that small changes will lead to bigger, significant ones. Hence, we can always play our part by adopting small habits to help tackle global environmental issues.
Final Thoughts On Zero-Waste Products
In short, incorporating the use of best zero-waste products in our daily life not only benefits our health but also helps to restore the natural functions of the environment.
This is imperative in ensuring the sustainability of planet Earth. It must be maintained in order for future generations to thrive.
Have you used any of the best zero-waste products before?
Share with us in the comments sections below on the products that you have used and how it has worked for you.