Easy Zero-Waste Razor Swap
Many people regularly shave with a “disposable” plastic razor. If you practice a zero-waste lifestyle, you know that nothing (especially plastic) should be considered disposable.
Waste from razors is a big deal. According to the U.S.A. Today, “a 1990 ‘Environmental Consumer’s Handbook’ on the EPA’s website says the U.S. produces ‘2 billion throwaway razors and blades’ each year.” Two billion razors and blades per year in the U.S. alone. The number is likely even higher now.
Lower Waste Options
- Recycle your disposable razor with Terracycle.
- Reuse your disposable razor’s handle and just replace the cartridge head.
Zero-Waste Options
- Stop shaving.
- Use an all-metal safety razor.
Safety Razor
In 2020, I made the switch from plastic “disposables” to my first all-metal double-edge butterfly safety razor. I bought Albatross’s Flagship Butterfly Razor. Albatross has a program to take back used blades and recycle them into cutlery. I love that the company is close-looped and takes responsibility for the products they are putting out into the world. I know that Leaf (which I have heard great things about) also has a takeback program. In fact, I wanted to buy a Leaf razor, but it was out of my price range.
At least a couple of different mechanisms are used to secure the blade into place on a safety razor. When you twist the handle on a butterfly razor (like mine), the top opens up like butterfly wings, and a razor can be removed or inserted. When you twist a multiple-piece safety razor, you unscrew the top and remove it from the rest of the razor. You then remove or insert a blade and screw the top back on.
I am by no means an expert yet, but I do feel good knowing that I am doing one more thing to lessen my impact on the planet. I hope that if you decide to swap to a safety razor as a takeaway from this post, you feel good, too.
Keep In Mind
- You cannot bring safety razors on an airplane in carry-on luggage.
- Keep them away from children and from people experiencing self-harm urges or suicide ideation, as the blades can be separated from the razor.
- It takes more time and care to shave without cutting yourself with a safety razor over most plastic cartridge razors. Be careful!
Top Five Best-Sellers in Safety Shaving Razors
Below are the top five best-selling “men’s” safety shaving razors on Amazon. They don’t have a best-selling list for women, but they are not inherently gendered, and those that work well for men should work for women, too. Note: I have not tried any of the below products, so I cannot speak to their quality myself.
Note: The Amazon links on this page are affiliate links. If you purchase one of these razors using the links below, I earn a small commission, which will help me keep this site running. This does not affect the price of the product for you. (I am not an affiliate of Albatross or Leaf.)
2. VIKINGS BLADE The Chieftain Double Edge Safety Razor (Neutrally Aggressive)
3. Long Handle Double Edge Safety Razor – Butterfly Open Razor with 10 Japanese Stainless Steel Double Edge Safety Razor Blades – Close, Clean Shaving Razor for Men
4. Merkur Mk34c Double Edge Razor with Heavy Duty Short Handle
5. Merkur Long Handled Safety Razor
What questions do you have about selecting or using a safety razor? Do you already use one? If so, what brand or features do you prefer? Leave a comment!
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