Are you on the hunt for an eco-friendly floss pick? I totally get it – it can be tough to find the perfect option that’s both sustainable and effective at cleaning between teeth. Lucky for you, I’ve done the research and found some awesome picks that I want to share with you!
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Are Floss Picks Bad for the Environment?
While it’s great for removing gunk from between your teeth, traditional floss can actually be pretty bad for the environment. That’s because it’s usually made from nylon, which is a plastic that takes a looong time to break down – we’re talking hundreds of years!
Now, I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to be responsible for contributing to plastic pollution in our oceans and landfills. Plus, some people find that traditional floss can be rough on their gums and teeth, which can make flossing uncomfortable or even painful.
The good news is that there are some awesome eco-friendly flossing options out there that are kinder to the planet and may be easier on your mouth too. For example, you can try using biodegradable floss picks made from renewable materials like bamboo or cornstarch, or natural fiber floss made from silk or cotton. These options are better for the environment and may help you keep your pearly whites in tip-top shape too!
What is a really zero waste floss?
Well, there are a few key things to consider when looking for a floss that’s truly zero waste and eco-friendly.
First, it’s important to choose a floss that’s made from sustainable materials. This could be natural fibers like silk or cotton, or renewable materials like bamboo or cornstarch. These options are better for the environment than floss made from synthetic materials like nylon, which can take hundreds of years to break down.
Second, it’s a good idea to look for floss that comes in minimal or compostable packaging. Packaging can create a lot of waste, so choosing floss that comes in minimal packaging or packaging that can be composted or recycled can help reduce your environmental impact.
Third, consider choosing a floss that’s refillable or compostable. Refillable floss containers can help reduce waste, and some floss options, like those made from bamboo or cornstarch, can be composted when you’re done using them.
Finally, be sure to choose a floss that’s effective at removing plaque and debris from between your teeth. Look for options that are strong and durable, and that can effectively remove food particles and plaque from your teeth and gums.
The Best Eco-Friendly Floss Picks – Tested and Reviewed
Now that you know what to look for in an eco-friendly floss pick, let’s explore some of the top picks on the market.
Dental Lace – Refillable Glass Container with Silk Floss
Dental Lace offers a sustainable and eco-friendly dental floss solution that comes in a refillable glass container and ships in zero-waste packaging. The floss is made from 100% silk and coated with mint-flavored Candelilla wax, which is free of plastic and petroleum. The company also sells a vegan floss made of bamboo, charcoal, and PET. After testing it out, I highly recommend this product and encourage everyone to make the switch to Dental Lace today!
Pros:
- Investing in a sustainable company promoting eco-friendliness.
- 100% recycled and curbside recyclable planner.
- Made in small batches by a B Corp certified printer in the USA.
- Shipped in 100% recyclable packaging without plastic.
Cons:
- Limited quantities available.
- Planner may lack fancy features but prioritizes sustainability.
Georganics – Natural Floss with Activated Charcoal
Georganics’ natural floss removes food particles and prevents bacteria buildup in hard-to-reach areas. Suitable for vegans, it promotes healthy teeth and gums with ease. Its natural and sustainable features make it an eco-friendly choice for anyone looking to reduce their environmental impact while maintaining good oral hygiene. With a 100% customer satisfaction guarantee, it’s definitely worth a try.
Pros:
- Made of organic and vegan-friendly materials
- Efficiently removes food particles and prevents bacteria buildup
- Comes in a compact and travel-friendly packaging
- Long-lasting with 30 meters of floss
- Zero waste with compostable packaging
Cons:
- Might feel rougher compared to traditional floss
The Humble Co. – Compostable Floss Picks
Made primarily from corn-starch, The Humble Co. floss picks are compostable and come in eco-friendly paper packaging, reducing their environmental impact. The double threading and pick shape make it easy to remove food debris from hard-to-reach areas, ensuring efficient cleaning.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly and compostable, reducing environmental impact
- Double threading and pick shape make flossing more effective
- Comes in eco-friendly paper packaging
Cons:
- The floss picks are only partially biodegradable
- The picks may break or shred easily
EcoRoots – Bamboo/Corn Floss with Tea Tree and Peppermint Oil
As someone who has used a few of EcoRoots products in the past, including their natural deodorant and dish soap, I was pleased to try out their own brand eco-friendly floss. Both the bamboo and corn floss did a great job getting food out from between my teeth. I particularly liked the tea tree/peppermint oil combo in the bamboo floss, which gives off a subtle fresh smell, and the activated charcoal for its potential extra cleaning power.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly and zero waste
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Available in bamboo or corn versions
- Refills available
- Tea tree/peppermint oil combo (bamboo version)
- Activated charcoal (bamboo version)
Cons:
- Only one 30m spool of floss comes with the initial order
- Initial order feels a little pricey
RADIUS – Best Plastic-free Floss
RADIUS Unscented Silk Floss has a super soft consistency, and it’s coated in carnauba wax. It’s smooth when tightened but has a grab and grip function as it glides between teeth for total tooth and gum protection. The sponge-like texture of the floss makes it gentle on gums and ideal for people with sensitive teeth.
Additionally, the floss is packaged in 100% plastic-free packaging, with the recyclable outer cardboard box acting as the floss dispenser. What’s more, the floss is free from any harmful additives such as PFAs, glutens, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, GMOs, unnatural coloring, phthalates, or parabens. Instead, it contains organic erythritol that helps fight cavities better than its close counterpart xylitol.
Pros:
- Made of natural silk and candelilla plant wax
- Plastic-free packaging that is also recyclable
- Contains organic erythritol that helps fight cavities
- Super soft consistency that is gentle on gums
Cons:
- Some people may find the texture of the floss too sponge-like
- Pricier compared to other floss options on the market
Terra & Co. – Vegan & Cruelty-free Floss
This eco-friendly dental floss is made with bamboo fiber and plant-based ingredients like coconut oil and activated charcoal. The black color of the floss helps to visually guide the cleaning process, making it easier for you to remove plaque and tartar.
Pros:
- Made with eco-friendly bamboo fiber and plant-derived ingredients
- Activated charcoal naturally removes tough stains and brightens teeth
- Candelilla wax provides a smooth glide for effective cleaning
- Peppermint and spearmint essential oils freshen breath and reduce biofilm
- Vegan, cruelty-free and eco-conscious packaging
Cons:
- May not be suitable for those with sensitive gums or teeth
- Black color may be off-putting to some users
The Dirt Silk Floss – Convenient Floss for on-the-go Use
This floss is made from natural silk, which means it easily decomposes in nature, contributing to reducing environmental pollution. Additionally, it has an ideal texture that allows it to effectively clean between your teeth and remove plaque. The cutting top feature is also a convenient addition, as it helps you use the floss without accidentally nicking your fingers.
To give you fresh breath, The Dirt Silk Floss has mint essential oil and beeswax infused in it for comfort and ease of use. The mint flavor is strong enough to leave your mouth feeling fresh and confident. Moreover, this floss doesn’t contain harmful ingredients such as gluten, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, GMOs, unnatural coloring, phthalates, or parabens.
Another advantage of this floss is its portability, which makes it easy to carry around wherever you go. It’s a handy option for on-the-go use, and you can keep it in your purse or backpack without any hassle.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly option made of natural silk that decomposes easily
- Perfect texture for effective cleaning and plaque removal
- Cutting top included for comfortable use
- Infused with mint essential oil and beeswax for fresh breath and ease of use
- Doesn’t contain harmful ingredients such as gluten, preservatives, artificial sweeteners, GMOs, unnatural coloring, phthalates, or parabens
- Portable and convenient for on-the-go use
Cons:
- May not be suitable for those with silk allergies
- Mint flavor may be too strong for some users
Eco-Friendly Floss Picks: Answering Commonly Asked Questions
Are zero waste floss picks effective in cleaning teeth?
Yes, zero waste floss picks are as effective as regular floss picks in cleaning teeth. They are designed to remove plaque and food particles from between teeth and can help prevent gum disease and tooth decay.
Are zero waste floss picks more expensive than regular floss picks?
Zero waste floss picks may be more expensive than regular floss picks, but they are also more durable and eco-friendly. Investing in zero waste floss picks can save you money in the long run and help reduce plastic waste.
Can I compost zero waste floss picks?
It depends on the material used to make the floss picks. If the floss picks are made from biodegradable materials such as bamboo or cornstarch, they can be composted. However, if the floss picks have plastic parts or are made from materials that are not biodegradable, they cannot be composted.
Conclusion
Zero waste floss picks are the new must-have for eco-conscious dental care, and after trying out some options, I’m hooked! Not only do they make flossing a breeze, but they’re also easy on the planet. From sleek bamboo to vibrant reusable handles, there’s a zero waste floss pick out there for everyone. So go ahead, give them a try and smile knowing you’re making a difference for the planet!
