2011 has been a year of experiments and finding the right mix.
Going to the root of consumerism has not been an easy journey. We often make consumption choices without even knowing why or just because everybody else is doing it.
So at the beginning of 2011 I made a decision not to use some of the "basic" hygiene items, risking my reputation as a clean individual.
First to go is face soap. H2O is naturally a cleansing agent so why add to it if not necessary? Taking it one step further, I decided to only use soap if necessary, like after gardening or exercising. Out with the soap went the hair products: Shampoo, conditioner and hair gel.
In order to avoid extra costs, chemicals and plastics, Kelli is making the hygiene necessities at home such as tooth care products and deodorants. Coconut oil serves for an all around moisturizer and for hair control. Salt water with tea tree oil serves as a mouth wash.
Five months into the experiment, you may ask what the impact has been on my social standing. Well...... so far, so good. But then maybe my opinion is biased, so next time we meet, please LET ME KNOW!
Estimated Yearly Savings from Life With Out Add-ons Experiment:
4 - 6 bottles of shampoo @ $8/bottle = $48
2 - 4 bottles of conditioner @ $8/bottle = $32
4 bottles of face soap @ $6/bottle = $32
4 face pad containers @ $6 ea. = $32
6 deodorants @ $5/ea. = $30
4 tubes of tooth paste @$3/ea. = $12
3 bottles of mouth wash/year @$5 ea. = $15
Total Savings = $ 201/year (Conservative Estimate)
Environmental Savings
31 plastic bottles or containers and all the associated logistics and disposal negative impacts
Gallons of contaminated water due to soap and shampoos
Health Benefits
Most soaps, shampoos and conditioners contain various chemical additives. Finding truly natural products is challenging and pricey.
Deodorants usually contain aluminium and other chemicals and have been linked with illness.
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