Body wash comes in containers that contribute to landfills every year. According to the Clean Air Council, 2.5 million plastic bottles are thrown away every hour, including those from body wash. Think of how much waste we could reduce just be using soap instead of body wash! For a more environmentally friendly household, use soap instead of body wash.

And to reduce even more waste, choose soap that comes in minimal packaging, or make your own. Check out this list of 14 different homemade soap recipes.

I’ve already ordered my Lye on Amazon (I searched for a week and found that they have the best deal), and plan on making soap for Christmas presents. Do you make your own soap or buy handmade soap from someone? Let us know what your favorite recipes or sources are!

Photo courtesy of elegantroseboutique. WARNING: Lye is very hazardous and even deadly, so use caution if you make your own soap.

Read more: Pollution Facts About Body Wash Bottles Vs. Soap Bars 

Natural & Thrifty in 365 is a year-long series of 365 tips for living more green, natural and healthy while saving money. Do you have a natural and thrifty tip that you would like to share with The Thrifty Mama readers? Contact me here and let me know about it. You just might get featured as one of the 365 tips!