Shampoo Bottles… Are SO Last Year!

Really, you are paying for water in a perfectly useless plastic bottle.

Ever stopped to think about the bottles your soaps, shampoos, and conditioners come in? When you purchase a bottle of liquid soap or shampoo, you’re essentially paying for a fancy plastic bottle full of … mostly water.

Bottles that Don’t Go Away

On average a person uses ~11 bottles a year, and unfortunately, most of these end up in landfills or in our oceans. The 73 Billion USD worth personal care industry produces over 550 million shampoo bottles annually in the U.S. alone, and another 400 million conditioner bottles! Only about 5-6% of plastic waste gets recycled in the country, meaning the majority of these bottles sit in our environment for centuries, contributing to an ever-growing pollution problem.

Still got questions how the US got to #1? Here's a 'reel' quick one -

Plastic doesn’t biodegrade; it breaks down into microplastics, which infiltrate water systems and marine life, causing severe harm to ecosystems… to us. I’m sure the research showing microplastics in the human brain, human fetus and human genitals is well known at this point.

Every Drop Adds Up

It’s not just about the plastic. Another unfortunately overlooked issue with liquid soaps and shampoos is that they are made up of 75-80% water—to “blend” the ingredients! Transporting all that extra weight increases fuel consumption, which directly contributes to carbon emissions.

Basically, the production, transport, and disposal of liquid soaps contribute to greenhouse gas emissions that drive climate change.

What’s the Alternative to Bottled Soap and Shampoos?

Solid soap and shampoo bars, of course!

1. You’re only paying for the active ingredients, not water!

2. Most come in biodegradable, recyclable, or minimal packaging.

3. Many solid soap brands use fewer chemicals, opting for natural, skin-friendly ingredients that are gentler on your skin and hair.

4. Liquid restrictions at airports or spills in your luggage? Problem solved! Solid bars are lighter, compact, easy to pack, and TSA-friendly!

Switching to solid bars of soap and shampoo are just as effective and can

save 1-2 plastic bottles per month per person.

Many eco-friendly personal care brands are also more mindful of their carbon footprint, using sustainably sourced ingredients and minimal packaging. Here is a nice list of eco-friendly personal care options that can get you started.

It’s a win-win!

Small Switches, Big Impact

Switching from liquid to solid soaps and shampoos may seem like a small change, but when multiplied by the billions of people around the world, it can have enormous impact. So next time you’re shopping for personal care products, do our planet a solid and reach for the bar instead! 🧼