Plastic razors may not qualify as single-use, but they might as well be. Billions of plastic razors end up in landfills each year thanks to the mix of plastic and metal so they cannot be easily recycled. On average, disposable razors are good for 3-10 shaves depending on hair thickness which means billions of pounds of plastic razor blades have been trashed over the years.
It wasn't always this way though. Back when things were bought for life and well before the popularity of cheap plastic goods metal safety razors were the go-to for shaving equipment.
Safety razors can last for life if cared for, and the stainless steel blades can be collected in a blade bank and recycled with other sharps. Safety razors allow you virtually eliminate all pollution caused by your daily routine and with a bit of practice can result in a smooth, irritation-free shave.
Why use a plastic razor alternative?
If the above didn't convince you, here are some rock-solid reason to swap out plastic razors in your bathroom for something a bit more environmentally friendly.
- Once you get the hang of it, a safety razor can provide a far superior shave to a conventional cartridge razor
- Safety razors can be bought for life, the upfront cost may seem steep but you will save money in the long run
- No plastic waste! Switching off of cartridge razors completely eliminates plastic waste from your shave
- Goodbye boring shaving creams, hello fun shaving soaps. Shaving soap is used for safety razor shaving and comes in a wide variety of scents giving you full customization of your shaving routine.
What is the environmental impact to disposable razors?
Being made of plastic, disposable razors have a pretty significant environmental impact. Like all other single use plastics, after they are used, they often end up in landfills, where they can take hundreds of years to break down. Additionally, some of these razors may end up in the ocean, where they can harm marine life and ecosystems.
When disposable razors break down, they release microplastics into the environment, which are tiny particles of plastic that can be harmful to wildlife and ecosystems. Microplastics can be easily ingested by marine animals, birds, and other wildlife, and they can cause harm to their digestive and reproductive systems.
Fortunately, we've got several eco-friendly alternatives to plastic razors to browse from and reduce your environmental impact.
The best eco-friendly disposable razor alternatives
1) Rockwell 6C - Double Edge Safety Razor
Price: $50.00
Materials: dd
Brand ethics: Rockwell Razors is committed to bringing a sustainable and affordable alternative to cartridge razors and shave clubs. Through their line of stainless steel safety razors, they're trying to save the planet one shave at a time.
Say goodbye to overpriced disposable plastic cartridges and say hello to a smooth shave that leaves you feeling fresh all day with Rockwell's double edge safety razor.
Rockwell's innovative adjustable settings let you change the blade exposure for a truly personalized experience, so you get a close, comfortable shave - every time. The Rockwell 6C eliminates bumps, razor burn, nicks and irritation - so you get the premium experience you deserve.
Made from a durable alloy in a striking chrome finish. Beloved by shaving experts worldwide, the Rockwell 6C is guaranteed to upgrade your routine and deliver the best shaves you've ever experienced.
Perfect any man or woman that's shaving their face, head or sensitive areas. Includes a beginner setting that makes it impossible for users to cut themselves shaving, while still getting a great shave.
View the product for more info
2) Leaf Razor
Price: $84.00
Materials: Leaf is committed to fixing shaving and reducing plastic waste. They produce a line of long-lasting metal razors, ship everything plastic free and carbon neutral. They finance initiatives to offset 100% of the CO2 emissions produced - from their materials all the way to shipping.
Brand ethics: Unspecified metal.
The Leaf razor offers a hybrid of sorts. It's all metal and takes razor blades rather than plastic cartridges, however it looks and functions like a cartridge razor.
It's truly designed for any body, shaving anywhere head to toe. Load multiple blades (you choose: 1, 2 or 3 to customize it), and the unique pivoting head not found on any other safety razor.The Leaf's multi-blade design is engineered to be gentle, adjustable and efficient. Users report faster shave times, safer shavings than traditional safety razors and a way lower learning curve. The Leaf razor covers a lot of ground very efficiently.A long, balanced handle delivers control.
View the product for more info
3) Merkur 34C Heavy Duty Safety Razor
Price: $48.99
Materials: Brass handle plate with chrome.
Brand ethics: Merkur is a classic brand in shaving supplies, they are committed to providing premium and long-lasting shaving gear through their line of metal safety razors.
Merkur is a classic brand in the shaving space, and the 34C heavy duty safety razor is one of their most popular items.
The handle is approximately 3" long and is designed with a thicker grip with non-slip knurling. It's shorter than something like a Fusion, but the shorter length actually makes it more maneuverable and is typical of the old Gillettes.
It is average on the aggressiveness scale and, therefore, a continual first choice for new wet shavers. At the same time, it's not too mild so experienced classic shaving fans love it as well. Like many other safety razors, keep it clean and it will last a lifetime.
This razor uses all standard double edge blades for a close and comfortable shave and features a 2-piece design. Replacement blades are available.
View the product for more info
4) Buy a vintage razor
Safety razors have been around for over 100 years, and with care can last a lifetime - or more. While names like Gillette are synonymous with plastic waste, for most of the 1900s Gillette was creating the best products that a wet shaving enthusiast could buy. Rather than purchase a brand new product, which does take a toll on the environment due to manufacturing and shipping, why not buy vintage?
You can still find Gillette (and other brands) at your local vintage store or antique mall, often still in shape to use though they will need to be cleaned and disinfected. If you're committed to buying vintage but with a bit less effort, you can find vintage razors on ebay and etsy that are ready to use out of the box.
Why we like these green alternatives
We only include brands that walk the walk, not just talk the talk.
All of these brands are committed to cutting down on waste, preventing further destruction of our environment, and providing a great consumer product.
For those of us who shave every day, there's an incredible amount of waste being created (and money spent) on a grooming necessity. Why continue the plastic route? For generations metal razors and blades have been the go-to option, and for good reason: a well-made razor will last you a lifetime (or more). Rather than throw plastic cartridges in the wastebasket every week, opt for a metal razor that will last your entire life and recyclable blades to cut down on your plastic waste production. It's one of the best changes you can make to your daily routine to trim plastic waste and keep our planet clean.