In the last year, I have visited the refill and bulk stores more than I have in my entire life. I absolutely love the convenience they provide and how much waste I’ve been able to save on. If you are located in PEI, I put together a list earlier in the year sharing 13 Eco-friendly, Sustainable Shops on the island that I am familiar with; many of which I frequently shop at.

It is worth keeping in mind that some products are more expensive than what you would find at the supermarkets. This has a lot to do with the maintenance of ethical supply chains and quality of ingredients. I have noticed that the structure of the majority of these businesses are very conscious of their environmental impact (as they should be). The employees and owners are great individuals to chat with about transitioning to zero waste and how to choose the right refillable products to suit your needs at home.

For this list today I compiled the products that are on the cheaper side and will save you money.

1. Toothpaste

   You can find these in both paste or tablet forms. You will need to bring a clean small glass container to fill up with your choice. The tablets, if you aren’t familiar, create a foamy paste when you chew on them in your mouth. They require no extra packaging or waste.

2. Liquid Dish Soap

   Why buy new plastic bottles over and over when you ca head to your local bulk store and fill up what you already have? This is a great way to save on waste and money. Simply come prepared with your own clean, empty dish bottle — if you are looking to switch over from plastic, if you clean out a glass oil bottle they can work well too.

3. Laundry detergent

   Common brand laundry detergent comes in heavy HDPE #2 plastic. If you are buying a jug once every few months, it adds up to a lot of unnecessary waste. Instead you can refill a clean store bought container or glass jug with liquid detergent from a refill store.

4. Liquid dishwasher detergent

   While those tiny dissolvable pods might seem like a convenient choice, the casing actually leaves behind a ton of microplastic particles that get washed into our waterways. Opt for a liquid solution you can pick up in bulk that will save you money in the long run.

5. Toilet cleaner

   Often I have found these in great concentrated formulas with the natural sanitizing action of essential oils for a clean and disinfected bowl. Skip out on the harmful chemicals and keep things smelling fresh for less.

6. Toilet paper

   I think it is so unnecessary for paper products to be wrapped either individually, or all together in plastic! Bulk stores offer some alternative options that come without packaging or are wrapped in paper.

7. Shampoo and conditioner

   Refill stores usually carry both bar and liquid options depending on your preference and care needs. You can bring a clean bottle to fill up your own or purchase new.

8. Vinegar

   If you are a big fan of homemade natural cleaners or fermented foods, vinegar is a home staple. Check out your local bulk food store for a variety of vinegar options.

9. Oatmeal

   Buying bulk oatmeal and cereals will save you so much package waste. Once you have a good set of jars, you will be able to refill them time and time again for a lot cheaper. They will also stay fresh for longer because you can have them sealed properly from the start.

10. Nuts and beans

    There is no reason to be buying prepackaged nuts & beans when the bulk store has such a great variety of options. You can check for pre mixed nuts or beans to save time or combine your favourite varieties to ensure none of it goes to waste.

Hey, Claudia here

I am a senior graphic designer, a dog mom, an advocate for a zero-waste lifestyle, climate change, and sustainability. My articles are based on personal experience and well researched to give you the best source of information for all things zero-waste.