10 Zero Waste Toothpaste Brands Taking A Bite Out Of Plastic
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Every time I write a round-up like this I need to remind myself that being completely zero waste is well almost impossible, everything we buy creates waste, but we can buy better and make sure the things we are buying help reduce waste, these 10 Zero Waste Toothpaste Brands are doing just that by taking a big bite out of plastic packaging.
We've also incldued options with and without flouride.
Plastic-Free Toothpaste
Zero Waste Toothpaste Brand We Recommend
Before you try any of these natural, zero waste toothpaste brands, check with your dentist first. And if you want more info on how we choose these brands and why making the swift will make you smile, head on down to the bottom of this post for all that plus we dabte flouride vs. flouride-free.
1. Biom
So, what happens when a dentist and a cosmetic chemist team up? No, it's not the start of a quirky joke. It's the origin story of Biom. Both of them, like many of us, were tired of seeing and recommending products that just didn't cut it.
They saw brands using ingredients that raised eyebrows and thought, "There's got to be a better way." And instead of just wishing for better products, they rolled up their sleeves and decided to make their own. That's some real DIY spirit!
Now, let's chat about NOBS toothpaste. The name itself is pretty self-explanatory - No BS. They wanted to create a toothpaste that was straightforward, effective, and without any of the questionable stuff.
In the world of dental care, fluoride has long been the gold standard for tooth remineralization. But Biom decided to think outside the box and introduce something even more intriguing: nano-hydroxyapatite.
What is Nano-Hydroxyapatite?
At first glance, nano-hydroxyapatite might sound like something straight out of a sci-fi movie. But in reality, it's a substance that's intimately familiar to us. Hydroxyapatite is a naturally occurring mineral found in our teeth and bones. When broken down to the nano-level, its particles can penetrate and integrate more effectively with our tooth enamel.
Why Make the Switch?
The primary reason for using nano-hydroxyapatite over fluoride is its incredible ability to remineralize teeth. Remineralization is the process of restoring minerals to the tooth enamel, which can get eroded over time due to various factors like acidic foods, drinks, and poor oral hygiene.
Nano-hydroxyapatite particles fill in the microscopic gaps and cracks in the enamel, strengthening it and making it more resistant to decay.
The Science Behind It
It's not just a trendy ingredient; there's robust scientific evidence supporting the benefits of nano-hydroxyapatite. Studies have shown that it can prevent, and in some cases, even reverse tooth decay.
Moreover, because it's a biomimetic substance (meaning it mimics natural biological processes), it has a wide range of medical applications beyond dentistry.
Research has even indicated that nano-hydroxyapatite can be as effective as fluoride in remineralizing teeth, making it a safer and more natural alternative.
If you're someone who's always on the move, you'll appreciate this. NOBS toothpaste tablets are travel-friendly. No more messy spills or TSA side-eyes.
The tablets come in glass jars, which means less plastic waste. It's a small step towards a greener planet.
Each tablet is perfectly dosed. So, no more guessing or messy tubes. Just pop a tablet, and you're good to go.
Whether you're pregnant, nursing, or looking for something safe for the kiddos, NOBS has got your back.
What really stands out about Biom is their philosophy. It's all about clean ingredients, enjoyable products, and stuff that actually works. It's refreshing to see a brand that's not just about the bottom line but genuinely cares about what they're putting out there.
If you're looking for products that are transparent, effective, and have a whole lot of heart behind them, give Biom a try. And hey, let's celebrate brands that are doing their bit to make the world a better place, one toothpaste tablet at a time!
Fluoride-Free.
2. Change Toothpaste
Change is a Canadian brand I know and love. I've been using their eco-friendly toothpaste tablets for about 6 months and enjoy them so much! They have three yummy flavors: spearmint, bubblegum, and cinnamon.
Packaged in compostable pouches, they reduce your environmental footprint while giving you a clean, fresh brushing – without any harsh chemicals. I also love the fact that all the ingredients they use are natural.
The final product is gluten-free, vegan, cruelty-free, soy, nut, and dairy-free, so everyone can feel good about experimenting with a new brushing solution. The other thing I love is that it’s helped me reduce waste so much.
Don’t you hate it when you put a blob of toothpaste on your toothbrush and it falls off into the sink wasting it! It happens. These tabs eliminate this. All ingredients are organic and sourced right here in Canada. These guys are on a mission, and with a motto like "Just Like Paste, Without the Waste", you can't help but love them!
Ingredients: Xylitol (GMO-free), Dicalcium Phosphate, Flavour: Natural spearmint flavor, Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate, Sodium Bicarbonate, Menthol, Silicon Dioxide, Mentha Spicata Leaf Extract: Natural spearmint leaf.
Offers Fluoride-Free and Fluoride options.
3. Etee Zero Waste Chewpaste
Etee is based in Toronto, my hometown, and makes all of its eco-friendly products for the home in-house. I LOVE them so much I have induced them in my zero waste dish soap guide, zero-waste online stores, zero waste floss, and zero waste lip balm.
Their sustainable toothpaste tablets, are also known as "chewpaste".
The two main ingredients are Canadian glacial clay, and kaolin clay. The glacial clay helps to neutralize mouth bacteria, whiten and polish and is good for sensitive teeth. You'll also get lots of minerals and anti-bacterial properties.
Ingredients: Canadian glacial clay, kaolin clay, xylitol, erythritol, dicalcium phosphate, sodium bicarbonate, binders, natural flavors - mint, vanilla, menthol & eucalyptol, citric acid, sodium lauryl sulfoacetate (sls-a).
You can either buy the "chewpaste" in a reusable glass jar or you can sign up for their monthly subscription which includes 3 months' supply for 1 person, which works out to 2 tabs per day, your refill will arrive automatically and you get a 38% discount when you choose this option. The refills come in a compostable pouch.
I love sharing local, small businesses with my readers. All of Etee's products are plastic-free. Since they make all of their items, they have way more control over their supply chain, ensuring what they are using to make their products are sustainable, ethically made, vegan, and cruelty-free.
Note there is some palm oil in some of their products, they are looking into alternatives.
Offers Fluoride-Free and Fluoride options.
4. Bite
Bite is not just another toothpaste brand; it's a movement towards sustainable oral care. With eco-friendly packaging that starts with a refillable glass jar and continues with carbon-neutral refill pouches, Bite is setting a new standard in the industry.
As a proud member of 1% for the Planet and an ally of the Plastic Bank, Bite has played a pivotal role in diverting vast amounts of plastic waste from our oceans and landfills. Their commitment to the environment and transparency is evident in their yearly Impact Reports.
Beyond toothpaste, Bite offers a holistic range of oral care products, including bamboo toothbrushes, floss, and whitening gel.
For those who fancy classic mint or are adventurous enough to try flavors with a twist like "Save Our Water Watermelon", Bite offers a diverse range of non-plastic toothpaste flavors. Crafted with sustainable ingredients like xylitol, calcium carbonate, and baking soda, Bite's toothpaste bits are a game-changer.
This incredible ingredient not only remineralizes teeth but also offers polishing, whitening, pH balancing, and gum-soothing properties.
Every flavor from Bite is vegan, cruelty-free, and devoid of sulfates, parabens, gluten, and artificial flavors. Customers can purchase as per their needs or opt for a flexible subscription plan, which offers a 33% savings.
The subscription starts with an initial four-month supply, ensuring you're always stocked up. And if you ever change your mind, you can cancel the subscription anytime.
While they do have a fluoride option, the majority of their toothpaste bits are fluoride-free, boasting the benefits of nano-hydroxyapatite.
5. The Humble Co.
In 2013, dentist Noel Abdayem identified a pressing issue: while many children worldwide lacked basic oral hygiene products, the developed world was exacerbating the plastic crisis. This insight led to the birth of
The Humble Co., a Sweden-based initiative that seamlessly blends Scandinavian design with sustainability. Beyond offering eco-friendly products, the company is dedicated to supporting oral health projects for underserved communities through the Humble Smile Foundation.
The Humble Co. has revolutionized oral care with their Zero Waste Toothpaste Tablets. These compact, biodegradable tablets are a sustainable alternative to traditional toothpaste, making them an ideal choice for eco-conscious consumers and travelers alike.
The tablets are available in two versions - with fluoride and fluoride-free. The fluoride variant is dentist-approved, containing a fluoride content of 1450 PPM, the amount recommended by dental professionals.
Crafted with care, the tablets feature natural ingredients such as mentha leaf oil, baking soda, kaolin clay, hydrated silica, and calcium carbonate.
Sustainability is at the core of The Humble Co., and this ethos extends to their packaging. The toothpaste tablets are housed in recyclable or compostable cardboard containers, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint.
The tablets are FDA-registered and certified cruelty-free. However, they contain magnesium stearate, which can sometimes be derived from palm oil. It's worth checking The Humble Co.’s stance on palm oil to ensure complete sustainability.
In terms of performance, these tablets stand on par with other leading brands. Their unique composition ensures that users aren't just getting a plastic-free product but a completely compostable one, aligning with the brand's commitment to a greener planet.
In addition to the toothpaste tablets, The Humble Co. offers a range of sustainable oral care products, from toothbrushes to floss picks, all designed to provide an eco-friendly alternative to traditional oral care items while maintaining the highest standards of quality and effectiveness.
Offers Fluoride-Free and Fluoride options.
6. Georganics
Georganics is on a mission to revolutionize the oral care industry. Their goal? To craft genuinely natural oral care products that have minimal impact on the environment while prioritizing the health of their users. They believe that true oral health is intertwined with a toxin-free lifestyle and a deep connection to nature.
The conventional toothpaste and mouthwash that many people use daily are filled with potentially harmful ingredients. Georganics challenges this norm by emphasizing the importance of a toxin-free approach to oral health.
They understand that as individuals align their lifestyles with nature, their overall health, including oral health, sees exponential improvement. Unfortunately, many toothpaste brands on the market don't share this philosophy.
Georganics prides itself on using unique, natural, and organic raw materials, resulting in products that are beneficial for users and gentle on the planet. Their commitment extends to their packaging as well. All Georganics products come in fully biodegradable and compostable kraft paper cardboard boxes, printed with vegetable ink.
They consciously avoid using bubble wrap or polystyrene, ensuring that their packaging can be composted seamlessly.
Beyond just the product, Georganics emphasizes a sustainable lifestyle. Their glass and aluminium containers are designed for reuse, whether it's for storing food or as quaint plant pots. These containers can also be recycled indefinitely, embodying the brand's vision of a circular economy.
For those looking to enhance their oral care routine, Georganics offers a variety of products:
- Mineral Toothpaste: A blend of organic plant oils, baking soda, and calcium carbonate.
- Fluoride Toothpaste: Similar to their mineral toothpaste but with added fluoride for those who prefer it.
- Mineral Toothtablets: A convenient tablet form of their mineral toothpaste.
- Mineral Toothpaste Powder: A powdered version for those who prefer a different consistency.
- Toothsoap: An innovative approach to oral care.
Georganics' fluoride toothpaste, especially the charcoal variant, stands out for its whitening properties. Despite being a non-foaming formula, it spreads easily in the mouth, leaving teeth feeling clean and refreshed. This non-foaming feature is especially beneficial for those who might find excessive foam uncomfortable.
Offers Fluoride-Free and Fluoride options.
7. Butter Me Up Organics
Butter Me Up Organics is more than just a brand; it's a belief in an organic and sustainable way of life. Since its inception in 2008, the brand has been unwavering in its commitment to using organic ingredients, sourced ethically and sustainably.
Their zero-waste ethos is evident in every aspect of their business, from product creation to packaging. They stand firmly against animal cruelty and ensure that their vendors share this commitment.
Every product crafted by Butter Me Up Organics is a testament to their dedication to quality. They use the finest oils and clays, ensuring that each product is not only beneficial for the user but also has a minimal impact on the environment.
Their minimalistic approach to plastic use is commendable. Products are housed in glass, tin, or paperboard containers, and they take pride in their 100% plastic-free shipping. Even in their storage practices, they minimize plastic use, storing oils in glass bottles.
Diving into Their Sustainable Oral Care Range Butter Me Up Organics offers two eco-friendly toothpaste options:
- Organic Activated Charcoal Toothpaste: A natural detoxifier, activated charcoal is known for its ability to absorb impurities, making it an excellent ingredient for oral care.
- Remineralizing Powder: This toothpaste is designed to strengthen and restore essential minerals to the teeth.
Both toothpastes are fluoride-free and are formulated with ingredients like baking soda, sea salt, and coconut oil, which are renowned for their antibacterial properties and ability to combat tooth decay.
In the realm of organic oral care, the ingredients used in toothpaste often spark debates. Many conventional toothpastes contain additives that might not be beneficial in the long run.
Butter Me Up Organics challenges this norm by offering a blend that is both non-toxic and effective. Their toothpaste combines the benefits of baking soda, sea salt, essential oils, and coconut oil, providing a holistic approach to oral health.
The texture of their toothpaste is akin to conventional ones, but without the harmful additives. It's designed to leave your mouth feeling fresh and healthy. For those who prefer a burst of flavor, they offer options infused with Sweet Orange essential oil or Peppermint.
However, it's worth noting that the toothpaste has a salty taste, which might take some getting used to. The coconut oil base is temperature-sensitive, so the consistency might vary. In colder months, users can scoop out a small amount, let it melt in their mouth, and then brush as usual.
True to their sustainable ethos, the toothpaste comes in a 2 oz. glass jar with a metal lid. They also provide a wooden applicator, ensuring that the entire packaging is reusable and eco-friendly.
Fluoride-Free.
8. Huppy
Huppy brings to you award-winning toothpaste tablets that are a perfect blend of nature and science. These tablets are 100% plastic-free, made with clean ingredients, and are sustainably produced. The ingredients are wholesome, non-toxic, and family-friendly.
The star ingredient? Nano-hydroxyapatite, a modern marvel in oral care. All ingredients are vegan and sourced responsibly, ensuring no harm to animals.
How to Use Huppy Toothpaste Tablets
- Pop a toothtab into your mouth and chew until it turns into a paste.
- Wet your toothbrush and start brushing.
- Finish off with a rinse and repeat twice daily for a sparkling smile!
After over 100 formula iterations, Huppy has crafted one of the finest eco-friendly toothpastes. It boasts antibacterial and whitening ingredients like coconut oil, tea tree oil, and Xylitol sweetener. You won't find any harmful additives like SLS, GMOs, sulfates, parabens, formaldehyde, or artificial dyes.
Instead of fluoride, they've incorporated the mineral hydroxyapatite to protect teeth from plaque and remineralize enamel. The tablets come in a variety of flavors including peppermint, charcoal mint, watermelon strawberry, and cool mint.
You can make a one-time purchase or opt for a subscription to save 33%, get a complimentary aluminum travel case, and receive compostable refills at your doorstep.
Huppy's mission is to "do good, give back, and leave the world a whole lot brighter" - and of course, to brighten your smile too. They are staunchly vegan and cruelty-free, using only sustainably and ethically sourced ingredients.
Their packaging is either compostable or recyclable, adorned with water-based ink labels. Additionally, they donate 2% of their revenue to various sustainability initiatives.
Huppy believes in continuous improvement. They've undergone over 100 iterations, tweaking formulas, ingredients, and flavors to craft the world's best toothpaste tablets. Their commitment to quality is unwavering. If it's going into their tablets, it has to be top-notch. Their ingredients are 100% vegan and non-GMO.
Huppy was born out of concern for the plastic footprint left behind by conventional toothpaste. As adventurers and surfers, the founders were driven to find a sustainable alternative that's kinder to the planet. Their love for the ocean and the environment is evident in their products and ethos.
Meet David Phan, the Founder & Mint Connoisseur
David is at the forefront of the toothpaste revolution. His motivations?
- Exploring pristine ocean waters.
- Protecting his sea turtle friends.
- Envisioning a future devoid of plastics.
- Aligning with his plant-based lifestyle.
Starting at just $8 a month, you can be a part of this sustainable journey. Subscribe now and save 33%, plus enjoy free shipping!
Fluoride-Free.
9. Unpaste
Unpaste is not just another toothpaste brand; it's a revolution in oral care. With its vegan-friendly ingredients, Unpaste's Tooth Tabs not only ensure a dazzling smile but also prioritize your health and the environment.
Say goodbye to preservatives, dyes, and artificial fragrances. Instead, embrace a product that polishes your teeth to perfection, leaving them brighter and whiter after just one use. And the best part? It's as simple as bite, brush, and smile!
Their packaging is 100% home compostable, making them a perfect zero-waste solution for your dental hygiene needs. So, while you're taking care of your teeth, you're also taking care of the planet.
Unpaste Tooth Tabs are set to redefine your brushing experience. These tiny tabs pack a punch with numerous benefits:
- Effective Cleaning: The tabs polish your teeth with cellulose, reducing places for bacteria to attach, leading to healthier teeth and gums.
- Safety First: Made in Europe and FDA registered, Unpaste meets strict EU health standards.
- Gentle on Teeth: With a low abrasion value, Unpaste ensures thorough cleaning without harming your teeth.
- Pure Ingredients: No preservatives, SLS, artificial colors, aluminum, or nanoparticles. Just pure, effective ingredients.
- Flavor Choices: Choose between refreshing mint or spicy cinnamon, available in both fluoride and non-fluoride versions.
- Taste: A pleasant taste without any weird aftertaste or filmy residue.
- Ethical Choices: Vegan, cruelty-free, and made without harming any animals.
- Sustainability: Waterless, carbon-neutral manufacturing with compostable packaging.
Their tooth tabs are crafted with ingredients that are beneficial for both you and the environment. Free from harmful additives like preservatives, SLS, and artificial colors, Unpaste is also gluten-free, ensuring a healthy brushing experience.
The company believes in simplicity and sustainability. Their tooth tabs, popular in Europe for over a decade, are a testament to this belief. As the U.S. partner of Denttabs, GmbH, a pioneer in the tooth tab business since 2003, Unpaste is now available both online and in stores across the country.
Unpaste challenges you to make a change. Their zero-waste toothpaste tablets are not only convenient but also environmentally friendly. Made without harmful ingredients like GMOs, gluten, dyes, and palm oil, these tabs are a blend of microfine polishing cellulose, baking soda, and silica in a delightful minty flavor.
Whether you prefer fluoride or a fluoride-free option, Unpaste has got you covered. Each package, containing 125 tabs, is made of compostable non-GMO corn starch, making it the ultimate eco-friendly choice for oral care.
Contains Fluoride.
10. Zero waste toothpaste recipe
Ingredients:
3 tablespoons of coconut oil (antibacterial properties and acts as a base)
2 tablespoons of baking soda (natural abrasive that helps in teeth whitening and cleaning)
1 tablespoon of xylitol or stevia (optional, for sweetness without promoting tooth decay)
10-15 drops of peppermint or spearmint essential oil (for fresh breath)
A pinch of sea salt (optional, enhances the abrasive quality)
Instructions:
- In a small mixing bowl, soften the coconut oil. If it's too hard, you can slightly warm it, but don't melt it completely.
- Add the baking soda to the softened coconut oil and mix well.
- If you're using xylitol or stevia for sweetness, add it to the mixture.
- Add the essential oil drops. Adjust the quantity based on your preference for flavor intensity.
- Mix in a pinch of sea salt if you're using it.
- Stir all the ingredients until you get a smooth, paste-like consistency.
- Transfer the mixture to a small glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid.
Usage:
- Use a spatula or a small spoon to scoop out a pea-sized amount onto your toothbrush.
- Brush as you normally would and rinse thoroughly.
Notes:
- Always use a clean spatula or spoon to scoop out the toothpaste to maintain hygiene.
- If the toothpaste hardens due to cold temperatures, you can soften it by placing the jar in warm water for a few minutes.
- This toothpaste does not foam like commercial toothpastes since it doesn't contain any foaming agents.
- Always do a patch test before using any new product to ensure you don't have any allergic reactions.
Remember, while DIY toothpaste can be a great natural alternative, it's essential to consult with your dentist before making any significant changes to your oral care routine.
Toothpaste With Fluoride Vs Without Fluoride:
Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that has been a staple in dentistry for decades, known for its ability to fortify enamel and make teeth more resistant to decay. Its benefits in preventing cavities are well-documented, leading many dental professionals to recommend fluoride toothpaste.
However, the widespread use of fluoride, not just in toothpaste but also in tap water, has raised eyebrows. While many scientific studies vouch for its safe use in toothpaste, there are concerns about its potential side effects, especially when consumed in large quantities.
Overconsumption can result in dental fluorosis in children, a cosmetic condition affecting tooth enamel's appearance.
Some research even suggests that fluoride might disrupt endocrine systems, similar to phthalates, and act as a developmental neurotoxicant, potentially decreasing intelligence in children, akin to the effects of other toxic metals like lead, methylmercury, and arsenic.
On the flip side, fluoride-free sustainable toothpastes offer an alternative, harnessing ingredients like xylitol, baking soda, and activated charcoal to promote oral health. While effective in cleaning and reducing bacteria, they lack the enamel-strengthening properties of fluoride.
Ultimately, the decision to use fluoride or fluoride-free toothpaste is deeply personal, influenced by individual health, dental needs, background, and the advice of dental professionals. It's essential to weigh the potential benefits of cavity prevention against the concerns of potential side effects and make an informed choice.
How to choose the right plastic-free toothpaste?
If you're new here, our philosophy towards ethical and sustainable skincare revolves around a few key principles:
Good Ingredients: We prioritize products crafted from the finest natural components that are not only beneficial for us but also eco-friendly. Opting for certified organic ingredients and products is always a top choice, ensuring no harmful chemicals or pesticides are involved at any stage.
Vegan Commitment: We lean towards products devoid of any animal-based ingredients. Look out for certifications from reputable organizations like People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals and Vegan.org. Check out our post on vegan and cruelty-free toothpaste.
Cruelty-Free Assurance: We strictly avoid products that might have undergone animal testing. Reliable certifications to look for include PETA’s Beauty Without Bunnies, Cruelty-Free Kitty, Leaping Bunny, and Cruelty-Free International.
Palm Oil Considerations: Given the environmental and ethical concerns surrounding palm oil production, we aim for alternatives. However, some brands might use the Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), which we'll highlight.
Ethical Sourcing: It's essential to select products that are not only safe for users but also for the planet and everyone involved in the production process.
Eco-Friendly Packaging: Our preference leans towards products housed in compostable, recyclable, zero waste, or reusable containers. We always favor glass over plastic.
A final word on zero waste toothpaste brands?
There is a statistic floating around on the internet that claims that about 1 billion toothpaste tubes are sent to landfills every year. I tried to find the source of this stat with no luck.
But given the fact that so many of us use toothpaste in a plastic tube and in most cases, those tubes are not recycled, we can conclude that it's probably a really large number.
Toothpaste tubes are made from different types of plastic, aluminum, steel, and nylon which makes them hard to recycle as each component needs to be handled differently.
The same goes for toothbrushes which have nylon bristles, metal staples, and a plastic or bamboo (compostable) handle. To properly recycle these, you'd need to separate all the pieces, and let's be honest how many of us will actually do that?
On top of the issue of plastic, most conventional toothpaste brands contain ingredients that are not good for the environment, like fluoride, triclosan, carrageenan, sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS), propylene glycol, and artificial colors and sweeteners.
Triclosan is a suspected thyroid disruptor and may contribute to antibiotic resistance. It's highly toxic to aquatic life, and studies have shown that it can disrupt animal development.
Plastic has become a plague on our planet and I'm happy to report that there are so many sustainable toothpaste brands on the market today to help with your plastic-free tube desires.
What zero waste toothpaste do you use? Tell me in the comments below.
And if you are looking for other ideas to create a zero-waste bathroom or even a zero-waste period!
If you found this post helpful, please help someone by sharing this article – Sharing is caring 🙂 !
Les Knepp
says:I use the Klean Kanteen and love it. It came with the original loop cap and I went and purchased the sport cap from Klean Kanteen which I like. I haven’t come across any metal taste in my water bottle while using it.
Candice Batista
says:Thanks, Les for sharing. I love Klean Kanteen too and these water bottles too.
jenna
says:Great post! I have been using Davids toothpaste recently, as I love that I can recycle the tube when I am done! So awesome and a great way to reduce waste! 🙂
Jenna ♥
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