Getting rid of packaging, particularly plastic packaging takes a lot of work so I thought i'd share some great DIY recipes that are easy to make, plus there's a cross-over of ingredients so you can purchase in bulk and save $$ in the long run. Making products from scratch and repeatedly reduces the amount of plastic bottles and containers coming into the home, in particular, from consumable bathroom products.
Here are 2 recipes to get you started on your zero waste journey.
Zero Waste Toothpaste
2 tbs coconut oil (softened)
1 tbs bicarb soda
15 drops essential oil (I use food-grade peppermint)
Optional (if you have the ingredients) - a few drops of stevia (for sweetness) and a few drops of Myrrh (great for gum health).
Mix ingredients together and put in a clean jar. To use, scoop a small quantity out with a spoon and place on your brush (don't dip your toothbrush in!) and just brush and rinse as normal. Don't brush too hard as bi-carb can be slightly abrasive.
This toothpaste doesn’t foam up like regular toothpaste because it doesn't contain surfactants like SLS ( Sodium lauryl sulfate). The 'foaming' is purely cosmetic, it doesn't actually clean teeth any better.
Zero Waste Deodorant
2 tbs arrowroot powder (cornstarch)
1 tbs bicarb soda
1 tbs coconut oil (softened)
1 tbs shea butter (softened)
Essential oils (lavender, sandalwood, eucalyptus, peppermint)
Why these ingredients: Coconut oil - helps it spread and is a mild antibacterial. Baking soda neutralises odour-causing bacteria. Cornstarch/arrowroot keeps underarms dry. Shea butter is very moisturising and anti-inflammatory plus helps it have a balm like consistency and essential oils for fragrance and antimicrobial boost.
I like these oils; Eucalyptus for a lovely refreshing and clean scent, plus it's antibacterial. Peppermint is cooling and energising but if you have sensitive skin don't go too heavy on it. Sandalwood has a soft, woody smell and good for sensitive skin and dryness. Lavender is calming, gentle, slightly floral and great if you have skin that gets irritated easily.
Avoid essential oils like cinnamon, clove, oregano and thyme as they can burn or irritate the skin. I would avoid some citrus oils too as they can cause reactions.
If the coconut oil and shea butter are hard you can melt in a bowl over simmering water or if you have a soften function on the microwave. When the mixture is soft add arrowroot and bi-carb and 5-10 drops essential oil of your liking.
Fill the mixture into a glass jar and allow to cool before putting the lid on. Apply a small amount (about a pea-sized) with your fingertips to each armpit. Store in a cool place, you want a balm, not a liquid consistency.
Remember to try and source responsibly farmed ingredients, especially with the shea butter and coconut oil. I always try and source organic and in bulk but don't buy bulk if it sits in the cupboard going off. Split the products with family and friends to save money.