When people think about creating a plastic-free salon, they often focus on the obvious changes: recycling foils, reducing product waste, switching to refill systems, or eliminating disposable cups.

And while those changes are important, some of the biggest opportunities to reduce plastic are hiding in places you might not even think to look.

This Plastic Free July, we're encouraging salons to go beyond the usual sustainability checklist and examine the everyday items and habits that quietly contribute to plastic waste. Because building a truly sustainable salon isn't just about the products you use on clients – it's about every decision made throughout the business.

Here are five unexpected ways to reduce plastic in your salon.

1. Switch to Plastic-Free Toilet Paper

Let's start with the least glamorous area of the salon: the bathroom.

Many mainstream toilet paper brands come wrapped in plastic and are made using virgin pulp. While it might seem like a small detail, switching to recycled toilet paper packaged without plastic can eliminate a surprising amount of waste over the course of a year.

For salons committed to becoming a plastic-free salon, it's often these behind-the-scenes changes that make a meaningful difference.

2. Reconsider Your Cleaning Products

A clean salon is non-negotiable, but have you ever considered how much plastic your cleaning products generate?

From sprays and disinfectants to floor cleaners and bathroom products, most arrive in single-use plastic containers. Today, there are numerous alternatives available, including concentrated cleaning products, refill systems and dissolvable cleaning tablets that dramatically reduce packaging waste.

A sustainable salon looks beyond client-facing products and considers the environmental impact of every product that enters the business.

3. Look at What's in the Staff Kitchen

How many plastic milk bottles does your salon get through every week?

Tea and coffee are part of salon culture, but refreshments often generate unnecessary plastic waste. Consider switching to glass bottle milk deliveries, plant-based alternatives packaged in recyclable cartons, or local refill options where available.

It's an easy win that can help move your salon closer to being a genuinely plastic-free salon.

4. Eliminate Hidden Plastic from Client Refreshments

One of the most overlooked sources of salon waste comes from hospitality.

Individually wrapped biscuits, plastic stirrers, condiment sachets and single-serve snacks can quickly add up. Instead, consider loose tea, refillable containers, reusable spoons and locally sourced snacks with minimal packaging.

Not only does this reduce waste, but it can also elevate the client experience and create a more premium feel.

Small Changes Create Big Results

One of the biggest misconceptions about sustainability is that it requires major investment or a complete business overhaul.

In reality, becoming a plastic-free salon often starts with small, everyday decisions. The products you buy, the suppliers you choose, and the systems you put in place all contribute to your business's environmental impact.

The most successful sustainable salon businesses aren't necessarily doing one huge thing differently. They're consistently finding opportunities to reduce waste in every corner of the salon.

This Plastic Free July, challenge yourself and your team to identify five areas where plastic could be reduced. You may be surprised by how many opportunities are hiding in plain sight.

After all, sustainability isn't just about what happens at the styling chair. It's about everything that happens around it too.