We all need to do our bit to help the environment, and for most of us, this starts in the home. The bathroom is one place where small changes can have the biggest impact.
In this guide you'll learn how to make your bathroom more eco-friendly by:
I recently had a complete bathroom remodel that incorporated many of these tips, and I can tell you from experience that the results have been amazing.
Now I'm going to show you how to do the same...
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Traditional toilet paper is a major cause of deforestation and also consumes significant amounts of water, energy, and chemicals.
Recycled or bamboo toilet paper offers a sustainable, biodegradable, and soft alternative.
They're just as soft and effective, so this is an easy way to start transitioning to an eco-friendly and sustainable bathroom right away, without compromising on quality.
This is another simple and effective way to reduce plastic waste. Bamboo toothbrushes are a far more eco-friendly option, they're plastic-free but offer exactly the same cleaning efficacy as traditional brushes.
Tip: If you can, opt for plant-based or charcoal bristles. Most people don't realize that traditional bristles are made of nylon! If you get a bamboo handle with nylon bristles, you'll need to pull them out before you can compost the handle.
Replace your regular toothpaste and its single-use plastic tube with zero-waste toothpaste which comes in a reusable glass jar.
It comes in several forms: chewable tabs, powder, or traditional paste (which is still my personal favorite) and there are options with or without fluoride.
Like most people, I used to use regular floss, until I learned it's made of nylon that can't be recycled. I was also horrified to learn that the average person uses 162 yards of it every year, which all goes to landfill.
So, I tried silk floss and found it works just the same, but it biodegrades and is suitable for home composting. So why wouldn't you switch?
Most big-brand shampoo and conditioners often come in single-use plastic bottles. And many contain synthetic fragrances and other harsh chemicals.
That's why I choose sustainable shampoo bars that are made with natural ingredients and are packaged in recyclable or compostable containers. They actually do an even better job of caring for my hair, and leave no residue whatsoever.
Motion-sensor faucets are the same type you often find in public restrooms in malls, airports, or restaurants. They only turn on when they detect movement, the idea being that it prevents you from accidentally leaving the water running.
Studies have found that automatic faucets can reduce water usage by as much as 54%, depending on the aerator size, so there's no denying their effectiveness.
You can get one for as little as 50 bucks, and installation is easy for a semi-competent DIYer or any plumber. Just remember, they do need batteries, so keep some extras handy.
The EPA has reported that the average shower uses between 10 and 25 gallons of water, whereas filling a bath uses up to 70!
So I started taking shorter showers, using a timer to make sure I always keep them under 5 minutes. I'll admit, it was a bit hard at first, especially on cold mornings, but it gets easier. Plus, you save time so you get to stay in bed a few minutes longer!
Switching to a low-flow showerhead is a simple yet effective way to conserve water. It'll keep you at the lower end of that 10-25 gallon range.
These shower heads reduce the amount of water used without sacrificing water pressure. Initially, I was worried about losing that refreshing shower feel, but I didn't even notice a difference in pressure.
They cost as little as 20 bucks and will save you money for months and years to come by lowering your water and heating bills
I installed one myself, and even with my moderate DIY skills it was surprisingly easy.
Tip: Remember to check for compatibility with your existing shower system when you shop for one.
A dripping tap might not seem like a big deal, but it wastes so much water over time. Just one faucet dripping 3 drips a minute can waste over 100 gallons a year. Plus it's really annoying!
I learned how to fix basic leaks myself—it’s not as hard as it seems. Most of the time all you need to do is replace the washer. There are lots of DIY videos online that can help. The tricky part is finding the right tools, so maybe borrow some if you don't have them.
Upgrading to a low-flow toilet means you use significantly less water every time you flush. An EPA Watersense toilet uses just 1.28 gallons per flush, which equates to a saving of between $5 and $69 per person per year.
I do recommend a plumber for this job, as you don't want to end up with any leaks from this particular appliance! The fully installed cost would be around $500. However, depending on the size of your family and the age of your current toilet, it could pay for itself in as little as 2 years.
If you're doing a complete bathroom renovation or installing a new one scratch, then it's a no-brainer.
If you don't have the budget to replace your toilet, a tank displacement bag is a much cheaper way to reduce the water you use per flush.
These sit inside your toilet tank and simply occupy space, meaning it takes less water to fill the tank each time.
You can get one on Amazon for under $10 and installation is simple.
The greenest and most efficient way to heat your water is to let the sun do the job for you.
Solar installations are without doubt one of the more costly home improvements, but for most households, the long-term savings are worth it. If you're building a new home or doing major renovations, definitely consider solar energy.
You'll no longer have to worry about the cost or carbon footprint of heating your water or your home. However, if you can't afford solar right now, the following tips will help improve your energy efficiency and cut your bills.
Swapping to an Energy Star water heater can save a typical family of four up to $470 a year. Quite simply, they use less energy (as much as 70% less in fact) to do the same job.
You can also get help with the installation cost. Check here to see if you could be eligible for a rebate.
Some water heaters are installed at 140ºF which is far higher than most households need. Setting yours to the recommended 120ºF can reduce your energy usage by as much as 22% and save you between $36 to $61 a year.
It's easy to do and costs you nothing.
I tried this, and honestly, I didn't notice any difference in the shower temperature. Even if it had, it's easy enough to revert the change afterward, so there's no reason not to at least try.
Switching to LED lights was one of the easiest changes I made. LEDs are cheap to buy and easy to install. I'll avoid any "change a lightbulb" jokes here, but you get the idea.
They use 90% less energy than traditional bulbs, and last as much as 25 times longer. So you'll be changing them far less often anyway.
Plus, they come in different colors and brightness levels, so you can still set the mood you want in your bathroom.
Adding a window or skylight can reduce your need for artificial lighting. Natural light is not only energy-efficient but also makes the bathroom feel more open and inviting.
Tip: If you're remodeling, consider where the sun hits your house to get the most light.
Underfloor heating is a cozy and efficient way to heat your bathroom. It evenly distributes heat, so you don't have cold spots.
Installing it can be complex, so it's best done during a major renovation. It's more energy-efficient than standard radiators, and you don't have the clutter of heaters, so you also free up more usable wall space.
Choosing sustainable materials for bathroom fixtures and decorations is a great step towards an eco-friendly home. I replaced some of my bathroom accessories (soap dispenser, toilet roll holder, toothbrush holder) with ones made from recycled glass and bamboo.
They're cheap, sustainable, and also add a natural, calming vibe.
Most shower curtains are made from plastic and cannot be recycled. But linen is natural, long-lasting, and can usually be composted when you do need to replace it.
I found a beautiful, durable linen curtain that transformed the look of my bathroom. It's a healthier option, too, as it doesn't release the chemicals that plastic curtains can.
Recycled tiles are an eco-friendly and stylish choice for bathroom flooring and walls. There is no difference in quality, and they look great.
The only issue is most of the larger home improvement stores still don't stock a substantial range, but there are now plenty of places to buy them online.
Incorporating reclaimed materials, like wood for vanities or shelves, adds a rustic charm and reduces the need for new resources.
I used a reclaimed wood shelf, which added warmth and personality to my bathroom. It's a creative way to reuse materials that might otherwise be discarded.
Most people don't realize this, but regular paints can release Volatile Organic Compounds into your home, even after they've dried.
Using low-VOC adhesives and paints is vital for healthier indoor air. When I repainted my bathroom, I chose a low-VOC paint from ECOS and was pleasantly surprised by the lack of strong fumes. It’s healthier for both the planet and your family, especially in a small, enclosed space.
Finally, choosing organic towels and bath mats is a gentle way to step towards sustainability.
As regular readers will know, organic fabrics are made without harmful pesticides and chemicals. They are soft, absorbent, and kinder to your skin.
I switched to organic cotton towels a long time ago, and I still love how soft they feel every time I use them. They're a cozy, eco-friendly alternative for any bathroom.
I talked earlier about buying personal care products made from eco-friendly materials, but we also need to be aware of how we dispose of what we've used. Over the last few years, I've started paying more attention to the packaging of the products I buy.
Opting for items in recyclable containers, like glass or cardboard, helps reduce waste. I also look for biodegradable hygiene products, especially for single-use items like cotton pads. Most sustainable brands are transparent about the materials they use, so it's easy to check.
Installing a greywater recycling system is an advanced step, but it's incredibly effective. These systems work by reusing water from showers and sinks for flushing toilets or watering plants.
I haven’t installed one yet, but I plan to. It saves a lot of water and is perfect for areas facing water scarcity. If you're remodeling, this is well worth considering.
I now use green bathroom cleaners made from natural ingredients, which are much safer for the environment. They work just as well as chemical cleaning products but without the harmful effects. Plus, they're safer for families and pets.
Adding plants to the bathroom not only makes it look great but also improves air quality. I have a few humidity-loving plants like spider plants and peace lilies. They help purify the air and bring a bit of nature indoors. It’s a simple and natural way to improve your bathroom environment.
It may seem daunting at first, but creating an eco-friendly bathroom is easier than you think.
If you're happy with your current bathroom or have a limited budget, there's still plenty you can do.
Switching to eco-friendly products, changing to LED lights, switching your shower head, and turning down your water temperature are all simple, cheap, and effective steps you can take right away.
If you're planning to give your bathroom a complete makeover, it's the perfect opportunity to incorporate as many of these suggestions as you can into your design. You'll save money while protecting the environment at the same time.
Finally, if you have any examples of sustainable bathroom projects you've completed, please get in touch. I'd love to hear about them!
