A whopping 30 million toothbrushes are thrown away each year in Australia, according to an oral care brand. And most of those take 400 years to fully biodegrade.

But there are alternatives, says Doug Sadler, a spokesperson for sustainable oral care brand Grin Natural.

Go natural, he says. Ditch the plastic and opt for products made from natural materials such as bamboo, corn-starch and cotton.

Opt for multi-purpose products and get more for your money while you’re at it. Products such as all-in-one soap or multi-purpose balms are great – items that have more than one use save on a pile up of products and excess packaging.

Buy palm oil-free products: Deforestation accounts for 15 per cent of total global warming pollution each year, according to GreenPeace. With only 20 per cent of palm oil estimated to be produced sustainably, choosing products that are free from palm oil is vital.

Recycle! It’s drilled into us to recycle cardboard, paper and household items but self-care products can often be forgotten about. Recycle items such as old shampoo bottles or moisturiser tubes. And look for eco-friendly packaging.

Do you use toothbrushes made from natural fibres? Will you now? Are there some products you never buy because of the packaging?