World Environment Day: Sustainable Hygiene

05 Jun World Environment Day: Sustainable Hygiene

World Environment Day is the biggest event for positive environmental action that takes place every year. Although this year’s theme focuses on air pollution, we can all chip in, change our lifestyles, and do our part for the betterment of the planet. Many fail to realize our daily routines include a lot of waste, even our oral care routines.

Toothpaste and Powder

Each year, around one billion plastic toothpaste tubes end up in landfills. To avoid this, you can purchase a tube-free toothpaste. Or, you can make your own toothpaste with a DIY toothpaste recipe, like the one here. Below are some suggestions on how to minimize waste while keeping your mouth clean.

Toothpowder by Dirty Hippie: This toothpowder is made from detoxifying clays and is a great alternative to traditional toothpaste. This toothpowder comes in compostable packaging and is also cruelty-free, vegan, palm oil free and ethically sourced.

Georganics Natural Toothpaste: This natural toothpaste reduces tooth sensitivity and is packed with enamel-strengthening minerals. Georganics comes in a reusable bottle and is also cruelty-free, vegan and ethically sourced. You can also try out Georganics oil pulling mouthwash for even more sustainable care options.

Aquarian Bath’s Tooth Powder: This toothpowder comes in a metal tin and is made from bentonite clay, organic stevia, and cinnamon powder. Aquarian swears by plastic-free packaging and all shipping materials are compostable.

Floss

The worst part about floss is its heavy packaging. One roll of floss comes in a plastic box or cardboard container. Buying biodegradable floss or floss in repurposed packaging are great alternatives to traditional floss.

Zero Waste Charcoal Organic Floss by Lucky Teeth: Made from organic tea tree oil and bamboo fibers, this floss is antiviral, antibacterial, and kills the fungus that causes gum disease. The floss is 100% biodegradable and can be bought in a roll or in a pack of picks that are biodegradable, too.

Sustainable Brushes

We’re supposed to switch out our toothbrushes every three months, but that can create a lot of waste. Luckily, there are options available to reduce the use of plastic while brushing.

Preserve.eco Toothbrushes: Preserve.eco sells toothbrushes made from recycled yogurt containers to minimize the plastic waste problem we currently have. If you send back your toothbrush after a few months time, Preserve.eco will send you a $1 voucher for your next toothbrush.

There are plenty of changes we can make to move us closer to a zero-waste lifestyle on World Environment Day. Be sure to consult with your dentist before making any changes to your normal oral care routine and see what kind of sustainable suggestions they may have to offer.