The 9 Zero waste flossers that you need to know about

The Invisible Offender: Traditional Dental Floss

In the world of waste-free living, every component matters, including eco-friendly dental floss. The majority of eco-friendly dental floss options are free of plastic, which is a refreshing change.

Although traditional dental floss is a crucial aspect of our oral hygiene, it poses a significant risk to the environment as it cannot be easily broken down or recycled. It’s worth noting that most dental flossers are made of non-biodegradable materials, like nylon and Teflon, and are packaged in plastic cases.

This only contributes to the growing problem of plastic waste, adding weight to the theory that flossing may be an “invisible offender”. So while it may seem like a harmless task, flossing your teeth actually contributes to the global plastic waste issue.

Did you know that the average person uses approximately 12 inches of floss every day? That amounts to several yards per year per person! When you consider the entire global population of 7.8 billion people, assuming everyone flosses, the scale of this issue becomes truly immense.

In addition, many brands lace their traditional dental floss with synthetic waxes and organic peppermint oil for ease of use and freshness, respectively – ingredients that don’t always align with the principles of health-conscious consumers today. Enter stage right: zero waste dental floss – an effective solution for conscientious individuals who care about their oral health without wanting their hygiene habits to contribute detrimentally towards environmental degradation.

Health Concerns: More than Just a String

Beyond its environmental impact, traditional dental floss raises health concerns too. Many conventional plastic floss brands coat their product with chemicals to give it a smooth glide between teeth; however, these substances and toxic chemicals could be harmful if ingested over time.

One notable offender is PFAS (Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances), a group of man-made chemicals linked with health issues ranging from kidney disease to cancer. Also noteworthy is that some brands infuse their silk thread with activated charcoal or peppermint oil for added benefits like teeth whitening or breath freshening – but here’s the rub: there’s no substantial evidence supporting these claims.

Quite possibly, then, you might be paying extra for nothing more than a marketing spin. Moreover, individual wrapping of each piece contributes further single-use plastic waste into our environment – making even the use of supposedly “sustainable” options like bamboo floss packed in little plastic wrappers highly questionable on their green credentials.

Although brushing your teeth with a glass container full of vegetable wax-coated eco-dental lace at hand might sound cumbersome compared to quickly unwinding some traditional minty string from its handy dispenser – when you start looking at figures like 0/26–42 million miles worth of traditional non-recyclable string being dumped into our environment annually – it becomes clear that implementing more sustainable materials and alternatives into this aspect of our oral care routine is non-negotiable if we aim for true zero waste living.

Related: the 17 best zero waste toothpaste brands

Looking for an eco-friendly flossing option?

Have you ever heard of a zero waste flosser? It’s a new take on traditional plastic floss that aims to reduce waste. This alternative is designed to prioritize both dental health and environmental sustainability, making it a great choice for those who care about both.

The true allure of the zero waste flosser can be found in its intricate details. Typically, the threads are made from natural materials like silk thread, as opposed to synthetic polymers.

The threads are neatly packed in compact cardboard boxes or containers made from renewable resources, eliminating the need for plastic bags. Many brands now offer silk threads infused with organic peppermint oil, which adds a refreshing twist to your daily routine, surpassing any artificial mint flavor.

The best zero waste flossers money can buy

Caution Advised

Related: Tru Earth laundry eco strip review

It is important to be cautious when purchasing products that claim to be 100% biodegradable or compostable for your home compost bin. The term “vegan” can sometimes refer to materials made from plastic, such as vegan leather. In the case of Georganics’ zero waste floss, it is made from polyester yarn, which means it is not truly zero waste.

I have created a separate category to highlight something important, while still acknowledging that these companies are doing a great job.

Analyze: Components of a Zero Waste Flosser

Let’s take an in-depth look at the materials used: What is it made of?

When comparing biodegradable silk dental flosses with traditional floss made from non-biodegradable materials like nylon or Teflon, the former is crafted from materials like silk thread or bamboo. However, some biodegradable options may contain cornstarch which requires special composting facilities. It’s important to note that some brands may engage in greenwashing, so it’s best to avoid those types of dental floss.

Silk, a natural protein fiber, is both biodegradable and compostable; it can be put in your home compost bin and will degrade in about 1-2 months depending on conditions. Other elements may include a recyclable plastic free metal dispensing lid or even a full refillable glass jar or container for storage.

This product is marketed as vegan because it is free of silk, which is an animal product that may upset some people due to the cruelty involved in its harvesting.

How Japanese Farming Million of SilkWorm for silk - Silk cocoon harvest and process in Factory

In my opinion, it is preferable to use a product that decomposes within 1-2 months, rather than one that persists in the environment for hundreds of years and only breaks down into microplastics.

Related: zero waste toilet paper- 7 plastic free alternatives

Design Specifics: It’s All in the Fine Print

When it comes to a zero waste flosser, it’s not just about avoiding plastic. The key is in the details of the design that make it practical. Some brands offer refillable containers made of sustainable materials like glass or metal, which is a clever way to reduce plastic waste even more. For instance, bamboo floss is a great option that’s often coated with natural wax and flavored with essential oils for a refreshing taste. It effectively removes stubborn food particles stuck between your teeth while being environmentally friendly.

The size specifications also follow a similar eco-conscious pattern; ‘0/1’ referring to generally thinner variants suitable for those with crowded teeth while ‘0/3–6’ refers to super floss types designed to clean around braces or wide gaps.

To fully embrace this low waste alternative, it’s important to know that the designers have carefully considered every detail. They are just as committed as you are to cultivating an environmentally-friendly lifestyle while maintaining the high health standards set by dental hygienists.

Switching to A New Dental Care Provider: A Recap on Why it’s Worth It

In many conversations, we have discussed the negative effects of regular floss on both our health and the environment. Each piece of floss, wrapped tightly in plastic packaging or made from materials that do not naturally decompose, adds to the growing waste problem that our planet faces.

The sight of countless miles of discarded plastic dental floss alone is enough to make any environmentally-conscious person cringe. However, transitioning to a zero waste lifestyle does not have to be a dreary experience.

In fact, it can be an enlightening journey of discovery as you explore new ways to reduce plastic waste while improving your oral and gum health. Imagine using a reusable floss pick that is just as effective at removing plaque and food debris, as your regular floss, but without the guilt of adding more waste to the world.

Looking for the ultimate zero waste toothpick? Look no further!

If you’re seeking a toothpick that produces zero waste, I have an excellent recommendation. Quip, the makers of the top sustainable electric toothbrush, also offers a fantastic little toothpick.

Introducing the eco-friendly Refillable Floss Pick from Quip. This impressive device replaces 180 single-use floss picks with just one reusable pod. The mint-flavored floss comes in a convenient mirrored case, perfect for freshening up while on the move.

Plus, every refill reduces plastic waste supporting Earth’s well-being. With the automatic subscription delivery, you’ll never be without floss again. Join 10 million customers in redefining oral hygiene.

Alternatively, they have waterflossers too.

Brush Off Traditional Habits: Say Goodbye To Guilt, Hello To Clean Teeth!

So there we have it! A comprehensive exploration of why switching from regular wasteful habits towards more conscientious alternatives is indeed worth every bit of effort!

With an array of fantastic products available now, ranging from reusable floss picks laced with peppermint oil designed meticulously to clean away food debris and maintain splendid oral health. The road towards sustainability might seem daunting initially but remember.

Every step counts when it comes to reducing our impact on earth’s resources – so make that switch today and proudly join ranks in the war against plastic waste!