Boston, the city that prides itself on being the best and brightest in the US, is also committed to sustainability. In fact, it is considered one of the Greenest Cities in the US. From baseball to Boston thrift stores, the city offers a range of eco-friendly options, including zero waste stores.
In this article, we explore the best zero waste stores in Boston, highlighting the city’s commitment to living in the land of the (plastic) free. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this guide will help you stock up on zero waste products while exploring the city’s many attractions, from the Boston Harborwalk to the Fenway Park.
The Full List Of Zero Waste Stores Boston
1. Z.E.R.O Refills
Z.E.R.O Refills is a zero waste store in Boston that offers recycling services for hard-to-recycle items such as Brita water purifying filters, coffee capsules, and Dunkin’ Donuts coffee bags. They also have a TerraCycle All-In-One Box for items that don’t have a specific bin. In addition to zero waste pre-packaged products, customers can bring their own containers or purchase reusable containers for refills of soap, face wash, and other products. Z.E.R.O Refills also sells zero waste cleaning products like dishwasher powder, fizzing toilet tablets, bamboo toilet paper, No-Paper Towels, and wool dryer balls.
Location: Cohasset
2. Boston General Store
Boston General Store is an apothecary style high-end general store with an eco-bent that offers a huge selection of zero and low waste goods. They have two locations in Brookline and Dedham, and also offer online shopping and shipping. At the Boston General Store, customers can find refill stations for liquid soaps, shampoos, conditioners, sustainable skincare, and cleaning products. They also offer Eucalyptus Steam Cleansing Shower Vapors, which are great for clearing up stuffy sinuses or adding some invigorating aromatherapy to your morning shower. Boston General Store also sells gifts, stationary, and eco-friendly toys.
Location: Brookline | Dedham
3. Uvida Shop
Uvida Shop is the “First Zero Waste Store in Boston” that offers bulk stores for sustainable goods. They are a zero waste store, refillery, and plant store all in one, and everything they offer is vegan, cruelty-free, non-toxic, plastic-free and designed to help people consume more consciously. Products on offer include natural laundry detergent tabs, dish soap, hair care, body wash and lotion, toothpaste tablets, teas, skin care, and other household cleaning products. In the plant department, they have a large range of succulents and houseplants, both common and more rare. If you have a zero waste dog or cat, they offer guidelines on pet safe plants.
Location: Brookline | North End
4. Cleenland
Cleenland is the only zero waste store Cambridge offers for busy and stressed out Harvard students. They are an inclusive store that stocks products for all types of hair and skin. If they don’t have something you’d like to see, drop a note in their suggestion box. They offer in-store recycling services for Preserve toothbrushes and razor blades (for your zero waste razor). In addition to “smiles to go around”, Cleenland has a wide selection of low-waste, refillable personal and home care supplies, almost all of which they’ve tried personally and display each ingredient for, which do not include a long list of “no-no ingredients”. On the refill menu, customers can get everything from face masks and bath salts to laundry powder and oxygen bleach. Their zero waste “for keeps” products include zero waste shampoo and conditioner bars, natural skin care products, every day reusables, and unique items like organic condoms.
Location: Cambridge
5. Good Filling
Good Filling isn’t so much an actual waste free shop in Boston as it is a small refill station scattered in various locations around the city, from private stores to public spaces and parks. While this means their selection is small, the access is unbeatable for the most commonly emptied products. Good Filling lets customers take a first step toward more sustainable living in a small, stress-free manner. Their refill offerings depend on what type of machine is at that location. Their home care machines contain hand soap, laundry detergent, and all-purpose cleaning spray from natural and non-toxic brands like Seventh Generation, Puracy, and The Unscented Company. Personal care machines offer shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and hand sanitizer, all for the favorite body wash refill brand, Plaine Products. Customers can also look for their Hydration Station drink taps carrying various types of cold brew and tea.
Location: Multiple
6. Unpacked Living
Unpacked Living is a zero waste store in Boston that offers bulk stores for sustainable goods. They sell a variety of products such as spices, coffee, beans, herbs, grains, pasta, nuts and seeds, dried fruits and vegetables, chocolate, and baking supplies. In addition to food items, they also sell sustainable products for home goods and personal care. They have a storefront in Somerville and also offer online shopping and shipping.
Location: Somerville
7. Supply Bulk Foods
Supply Bulk Foods is a zero waste store in Boston that offers bulk dry goods and fresh produce. They have a wide selection of sustainable goods such as tooth
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Final Thoughts on Zero Waste Stores Boston
As Boston and the rest of the world continue to face the challenges of climate change, it’s important to take action towards a more sustainable future. Fortunately, there are more and more zero waste and bulk stores popping up in and around Boston, providing opportunities for Massachusetts residents to reduce their personal waste and carbon footprint.
For those who can’t find the time to visit these package-free businesses, there are still ways to make a difference. Opting for zero waste online stores for daily essentials is a simple but effective step towards a more sustainable lifestyle.
To spread the word and help others discover these eco-friendly options, consider sharing a list of zero waste stores in the Boston area with friends and family. And don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to stay up to date on the latest in sustainable living, fashion, zero waste, beauty, travel, finance, and more. Together, we can make a positive impact on the environment and create a better future for all.
