Trying to reduce single-use plastics from your day-to-day life can be overwhelming. I’ve focused on finding eco-friendly bathroom toiletries, such as dental floss and toothpaste tablets. Sure, there have been brands that unfortunately didn’t cut it, but along the way, I’ve discovered just as many great products, including Sustainabar’s shampoo and conditioner bars.
The Cyndi Shampoo bar lathers quickly and rinses easily. The Jojoba Conditioner bar is very subtle; it doesn’t take much to detangle my below-the-shoulder length hair. Both are scented with a blend of rosemary and mint essential oils. There’s a light fragrance, but it’s not overpowering. I have to bring the bars to my face to pick up on the scent.
Making the transition from a liquid to a solid shampoo or conditioner bar takes a bit of a learning curve. I rub the shampoo bar directly on my head, but you can also lather the bar in your hands and then apply the resulting suds to your head. I also rub the conditioner bar directly into the ends of my locks. While the shampoo bar is circular, the conditioner is square. I found both are easy to hold and have not had any issues with them slipping from my grip.
Just like a conventional bar of soap, you don’t want to let shampoo or conditioner bars sit in water. They’ll last longer if they can dry out in between uses. Sustainabar sells an inexpensive soap deck that’s made out of wood.
Another perk worth mentioning and supporting; Sustainabar is a family-owned business. A “labor of love” for a mom and her two daughters, the personal touch is apparent the moment you open the eco-friendly packaging. Included with every order is a corny joke that hopefully makes you smile and chuckle.
The power trio estimates they’ve taken at least 20,000 plastic bottles out of circulation. And because of the bar format, there’s no liquid allowances you have to worry about when traveling with a carry-on bag.
The Cyndi Shampoo and Jojoba Conditioner cost $14 each. A combination package with one of each is $25. Bars reportedly last about 80 washes, and are said to be the equivalent of two bottles of shampoo. Shipping typically takes 5 to 10 days and is free on all orders over $50.
Practical Travel Gear also recently reviewed Sustainabar’s Cocoa Butter Lotion Bar.