When it comes to sustainability, we often focus on big-ticket items like solar panels or electric cars. But what about the smaller swaps, like choosing eco friendly toilet brushes?
Let’s be honest: no one really wants to think about their toilet brush, but when it comes to sustainability, nature calls. If you’re on a journey to reduce waste and make greener choices, you might be wondering whether an eco-friendly toilet brush is worth it. In this guide, we break it down with insights and practical tips.
The Problem With Conventional Toilet Brushes
Most toilet brushes are made of plastic, a material that takes hundreds of years to decompose. The average person might replace their toilet brush every six months to a year, meaning millions of plastic toilet brushes end up in landfills annually.
Why is Plastic a Problem?
Plastic waste is one of the biggest contributors to environmental pollution. It breaks down into microplastics, which can infiltrate our water systems and harm marine life. Sadly, microplastics have been found in the stomachs of all seven species of turtles, and 1 million sea birds die from plastic ingestion each year – we’d hate to think our toilet brush was part of the problem!
Learn more about the plastic problem in this blog post.
Hygiene is another important consideration. Conventional plastic toilet brushes often sit in enclosed plastic cups, trapping moisture and bacteria, and creating a breeding ground for mold and unpleasant odors. Additionally, stagnant water buildup at the base can lead to unsanitary conditions, requiring frequent replacements.
When Should You Throw Away Toilet Brushes?
Conventional toilet brushes tend to wear out quickly. Signs that it’s time to replace yours include:
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Bristles are bent or frayed
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Visible mold or mildew buildup
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Persistent odors despite cleaning
Because plastic toilet brushes can’t be recycled or composted, they almost always end up in the trash. This is where eco friendly toilet brushes come in as a sustainable alternative.
What Makes a Toilet Brush Eco Friendly?
Eco-friendly toilet brushes are made with biodegradable materials, such as:
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Bamboo handles: A renewable resource that grows quickly with minimal water and pesticides.
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Plant-based or natural fiber bristles: Typically made from coconut, tampico (agave), or other compostable fibers.
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Metal or wood accents: Instead of plastic fittings that will never decompose.
A truly eco-friendly toilet brush will also have plastic-free packaging and ideally be compostable at the end of its life.
Do Eco Friendly Toilet Brushes Work As Well As Plastic Ones?
Absolutely! Many people worry that sustainable swaps won’t be as durable or effective, but natural fiber bristles are surprisingly strong. For example, tampico fiber bristles are naturally resistant to water and don’t hold bacteria the way plastic does.
To make your eco-friendly toilet brush last longer:
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Store it in a dry area to prevent mold
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Rinse and air dry after each use
What’s The Most Eco Friendly Way To Clean A Toilet?
Pairing an eco friendly toilet brush with a natural, non-toxic toilet cleaner is key. Many conventional toilet cleaners contain bleach, ammonia, and synthetic fragrances, which can be harmful when washed into water systems.
Instead, try:
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Plastic-free toilet cleaner tablets in compostable packaging.
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Refillable or bulk toilet cleaners to avoid plastic bottles whenever possible.
For more zero-waste cleaning tips, check out EarthHero’s How to Go Zero Waste in Your Home guide.
The Best Eco Friendly Toilet Brush
The ZWS Essential Plastic Free Toilet Brush is a top choice for those looking to make a simple, sustainable swap. Here’s what makes it stand out:
✅ 100% Plastic-Free – Made with FSC-certified beechwood and natural tampico fiber bristles.
✅ Compostable – At the end of its life, all the wood and terracotta can be composted, and any metal can be recycled.
✅ Durable & Effective – Unlike flimsy plastic brushes, this one holds up well over time.
✅ Hygienic & Thoughtfully Designed – The open-air design allows for proper drying, preventing moisture buildup and bacterial growth.
This thoughtfully designed toilet brush offers an eco-friendly alternative without compromising on functionality or durability.
Final Thoughts: Are Eco Friendly Toilet Brushes Worth It?
If you’re serious about reducing waste, then yes—switching to an eco friendly toilet brush is a simple but impactful swap!
They’re better for the planet, reducing landfill waste and microplastic pollution, and just as hygienic as their plastic counterparts when cleaned properly.
Still not convinced? check out our post: 5 Reasons To Swap To a Plastic-Free Toilet Brush
Eco friendly toilet brushes might not seem like a big deal, but small changes add up. Choosing biodegradable, plastic-free options in your bathroom and beyond keeps unnecessary waste out of landfills and helps protect the environment for future generations.
Ready to make the swap? Check out EarthHero’s Plastic-Free Toilet Brush today!
