About the brands we stock

When I first started exploring zero waste living, I quickly realised how overwhelming it can be to find products that truly align with those values. Many brands claim to be eco-friendly, but their packaging or production methods tell a different story. That’s why I’m passionate about the brands we stock at Zilch. Each one reflects a genuine commitment to sustainability, refill options, and our ethos. I want to share what makes these brands stand out and why they deserve a place in your home.

Empty drums and boxes waiting to be collected to be reused

Brands that embrace refill culture

Refill is more than just a buzzword for us. It’s a practical way to reduce single-use packaging and waste. Many of the brands we carry offer refills in larger containers so we can offer them to you without any packaging at all. All of our liquid refills are in returnable drums, this means we send them back to the supplier where they are cleaned, refilled and reused. This is called a circular economy.

You can purchase refills online in pouches from lots of brands, but unless you're far from a refill shop, we believe this isn't the most effective way to minimise packaging. Regular deliveries accumulate miles and often still involve plastic that isn't reused.

How we choose brands for Zilch - Zero Waste

We don’t just pick brands because they say they are sustainable. We look for transparency in sourcing, production, and packaging. Here are some key criteria we use:

• Materials: Brands must use natural, reused or recycled materials wherever possible.

• Packaging: Minimal packaging is a must, and refill options are highly preferred.

• Ethical production: Fair labor practices and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes are essential.

• Longevity: Products designed to last or be reused rather than disposable.

• Community impact: Brands that give back or support environmental causes.

Personal stories from customers

I’ve heard from many customers who switched to these brands and noticed real changes in their daily routines. One shared how switching to shampoo and conditioner bars cut down their plastic waste almost entirely. Another told me about the joy of using toothpaste tablets, which is not only a more natural product, it saved them money and reduced landfill waste.

These stories remind me why supporting brands with refill and zero waste options matters. It’s not just about the products but the lifestyle shift they inspire.

Open jars of face care products in refillable glass jars

Why 'refill' and 'zero waste' matter

Refill systems reduce the demand for new packaging, which lowers resource use and pollution. At Zilch - Zero Waste we push this further by stocking products and packaging that leave no trace behind. Choosing these brands means you support a circular economy where materials keep circulating instead of ending up in landfills or oceans.

By stocking these brands, we want to make it easier for you to live sustainably without sacrificing quality or convenience. Whether it’s a refillable face cream, a compostable toothbrush, or a cleaning product refill, these options help reduce your environmental footprint.

What you can do next

Start small by trying one refill or a product from our selection. Notice how it fits into your routine and how it makes you feel to reduce waste. Share your experience with friends or family to inspire them too. Every refill counts, and every zero waste choice adds up.

We’re here to support you with advice and products that make sustainable living simple and enjoyable. Together, we can build a future where unnecessary waste is a thing of the past.

Let us know if you would like to see an "About The Brands" series, where we dig into many of our suppliers and why we stock them.