Each year on October 4th, No Disposable Cup Day reminds us of the impact that single-use items have on our environment!

For salons, where client comfort and convenience are top priorities, it can be easy to slip into habits that generate unnecessary waste. However, with just a few small adjustments, you can maintain a sustainable salon without compromising on service.

Here are three simple ways to reduce single use in your salon...

1. Choose Reusable or Compostable Cups and Cutlery

Many salons offer refreshments as part of their client experience. Instead of disposable cups, opt for durable, reusable mugs and glasses. If your salon needs the convenience of disposables, choose certified compostable cups and cutlery...and make sure you actually compost them rather than sending them to landfill. Setting up a small food waste bin in your salon makes it easy for your team to dispose of compostable items correctly. It is no disposable cup day, after all!

2. Rethink Your Towels

Depending on how you (or your stylists) use salon towels, we recommend several options based on our research into the sustainability of salon towels. The ideal scenario is for stylists to use just one compostable towel (like Replant Towels) per client, and actually compost them. If you use more than one towel per client, or on some clients, it's good to have reusable towels on hand for those services. 

3. Offer a Refill Scheme

Retail sales are an important part of salon business, but single-use plastic bottles add up fast! Encourage clients to bring back their empty shampoo, conditioner, or styling product bottles for a refill. A simple refill scheme not only reduces plastic waste but also strengthens client loyalty, as many salons offer a discount for refills. People love to know their salon is committed to sustainability!

Reducing single-use in your salon doesn’t have to be complicated. By making thoughtful choices, whether it’s in your refreshment station, your towel cupboard, or your retail shelves, you can provide an exceptional client experience while helping to protect the planet!