The KInd Life Community Forum

Hey everyone (and Alicia)!

First, I just wanted to say thank you for setting up this fabulous site! I've alway thought of myself as an eco-concious person, but after ready some of the information here I've decided to put my money where my mouth is and give it a real try! You can definitely call me a flirt, because i've just started... I'm using up the rest of the beauty products I have now (so they dont go to waist) but I've already got a list of things I want to buy next (thanks to everyones input on what products work best) -- I cant believe how many toxic chemicals i've been shoving into my body on a daily basis...YUCK! -- so thank you for providing such a judgement-free and less scary place for those of us "flirts" to get this information -- im so excited to become greener and healthier!!

Like I said, Im trying to go as green as I can, but looking for new products is definitly starting to get confusing. Any way, and I guess there is one place I'm a little stuck: which is better, disposable items or their electirc counterparts?

Specifically, I'm talking about toothbrushes and razors. Obviouly I know that using as little electricity as possible is best, but what about all of the manual toothbrushes and disposable razors that end up in landfills? Which one is "the lesser of two evils?" Thanks again!!

(sorry if this is an obvious question, but like i said, Im new at this and wanted some advice from the veterans!)

Yes, Preserve is a good way to go if you want plastic, they do make razors, too. And some Whole Foods have the Gimme Five program which takes plastics to recycle that usually aren't recyclable in most cities, and Brita filters, and they recycle the, into new toothbrushes, razors, and plastic ware.

It can be difficult because even recycling isn't terribly ennvironmentally friendly. I suppose the best option might be an electric one that has all recyclable parts! Unfortunately, no such thing, so we just have to make the best choice. Maybe we should all go back to the old fashioned razors that you had to sharpen. That would be interesting.

I third the suggestion of Preserve products. Their toothbrushes, tongue cleaners and razors (I prefer the double bladed) are great. They are made out of recycled plastic AND can be recycled after you are done with them.

Preserve also makes a lot of kitchen products as well. They make the best cutting board I've ever used - it's made from recycled paper and hasn't given me any of the problems I used to have with plastic or bamboo cutting boards. I really want to switch to their storage containers (their version of tupperware) sometime soon, because I've heard great things about them.